Save 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 tasted something similar at a local pop-up that specialized in experimental drinks. The blend of sweet caramelized onion and espresso seemed strange at first, but it was surprisingly comforting and deeply satisfying. My friends were shocked when they realized onion could feel so at home in a latte!
Ingredients
- Onion Base: 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced, 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar, Pinch of salt
- Latte Components: 2 shots (60 ml) freshly brewed espresso, 300 ml whole milk (or oat milk for dairy-free option), 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
Instructions
- Prepare the onion base:
- In a small skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced onion, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden, about 12&15 minutes. Do not rush this step (low and slow yields the best flavor).
- Blend the caramelized onions:
- Transfer the caramelized onions and any pan juices to a blender. Add 2 tablespoons of milk and blend until completely smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to ensure a silky texture.
- Make the latte:
- Brew 2 shots of espresso and divide evenly between two cups. Add 1 tablespoon of the strained onion purée to each cup, stirring well to combine.
- Froth the milk:
- Heat the remaining milk until steaming, then froth using a milk frother or whisk until creamy and foamy.
- Assemble:
- Pour the frothed milk over the espresso-onion mixture in each cup. Sweeten with honey or maple syrup if desired. Gently stir and serve immediately.
Save Making this for my family sparked some real curiosity. My partner at first refused to try it but ended up loving how the sweet onion mellowed into the coffee flavor. It's now a quirky weekend treat that gets everyone talking!
Required Tools
Skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine or strong coffee maker, milk frother or whisk
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (milk, butter). For dairy-free/vegan, use plant-based alternatives. No gluten, eggs, or nuts. Always check product labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 110, Total Fat: 4 g, Carbohydrates: 15 g, Protein: 4 g
Save This onion latte is best enjoyed fresh and hot. Share it with friends who love culinary surprises and let the conversation begin!
Kitchen Help
- → How are the onions prepared for this drink?
Onions are thinly sliced and slowly caramelized with butter, sugar, and a pinch of salt in a skillet until golden and fragrant.
- → Can I use plant-based ingredients for a vegan version?
Yes, substitutes like plant-based butter and non-dairy milk work well to maintain the drink’s creamy texture while staying vegan.
- → What type of onions produces the best flavor?
Yellow onions offer a balanced sweetness, but experimenting with sweet Vidalia or red onions brings nuanced depth to the latte.
- → Do I need specialty equipment for frothing milk?
A milk frother yields the best results, but whisking vigorously or using a blender also creates creamy foam suitable for this drink.
- → How should the caramelized onion purée be incorporated?
Blend the caramelized onions with a little milk, strain for smoothness, and stir into freshly brewed espresso before adding frothed milk.
- → What garnishes work well on this beverage?
Finishing touches like ground black pepper, a sprinkle of chive, or a sharp cheese pairing enhance the savory flavor profile.