Pin this A bold and unconventional latte that blends the subtle sweetness of caramelized onions with rich espresso and creamy milk. This avant-garde beverage offers a savory twist on the classic coffee drink, perfect for adventurous palates seeking new flavor frontiers.
I first created this onion latte on a rainy afternoon when regular coffee simply felt uninspired. The layered flavors of caramelized onions and frothy milk made for a surprisingly comforting cup and sparked lively discussion among friends.
Ingredients
- Yellow onion: 1 small, thinly sliced
- Unsalted butter: 1 tablespoon
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: Pinch
- Espresso: 2 shots (60 ml), freshly brewed
- Whole milk: 300 ml, or oat milk for dairy-free option
- Honey or maple syrup (optional): 1 teaspoon, for sweetness
Instructions
- Prepare onion base:
- In a small skillet over medium-low heat, melt butter. Add sliced onion, sugar, and salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until onions are deeply caramelized and golden, about 12 – 15 minutes.
- Blend caramelized onions:
- Transfer caramelized onions and pan juices to blender. Add 2 tablespoons of milk and blend until smooth. Strain through fine-mesh sieve for silky texture.
- Make the latte:
- Brew 2 shots of espresso and divide between two cups. Add 1 tablespoon of strained onion purée to each cup, stirring to combine.
- Froth the milk:
- Heat remaining milk until steaming, then froth until creamy and foamy.
- Assemble:
- Pour frothed milk over espresso-onion mixture in each cup. Sweeten with honey or maple syrup if desired. Stir gently and serve immediately.
Pin this This recipe sparked laughter in my family the first time I served it, but curiosity soon won everyone over and the mugs were quickly empty—it's now a quirky favorite for our weekend brunches.
Required Tools
Skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine or strong coffee maker, milk frother or whisk
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (milk, butter). For vegan/dairy-free, use plant-based options. No gluten, eggs, or nuts. Check product labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 110, Total Fat 4 g, Carbohydrates 15 g, Protein 4 g
Pin this This onion latte is sure to surprise and delight anyone who loves experimenting. Give it a try when you want a coffee break with a twist!
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → How do caramelized onions affect the taste of the latte?
Caramelized onions introduce subtle sweetness and umami, creating a savory depth that complements espresso's bitterness.
- → Can I use a different variety of onion?
Absolutely! Sweet onions like Vidalia or even red onions provide nuanced flavors and can be swapped to suit personal preference.
- → Is there a dairy-free version of this drink?
Yes, substitute whole milk with oat milk and use plant-based butter for a creamy, vegan-friendly result.
- → Should the onion purée be strained?
Straining ensures the beverage is silky smooth, preventing any residual bits for a luxurious texture in each sip.
- → What garnish pairs well with this latte?
A sprinkle of ground black pepper or fresh chives elevates the savory character and adds visual appeal.
- → What pastry complements the beverage?
A sharp cheese croissant amplifies the savory notes and provides a balanced bite alongside the latte's flavor profile.