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 was surprised at how well the caramelized onion purée brought out a subtle warmth and depth in my morning coffee routine: it quickly became a conversation starter among friends who love experimental cuisine.
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 Testing this novel drink with my family sparked laughter and curiosity: everyone enjoyed guessing the secret ingredient and offered suggestions for toppings.
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 or 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 The onion latte is a bold invitation to try something new: serve it hot and enjoy every savory sip.
Recipe Questions
- → How do caramelized onions affect the latte's flavor?
Caramelized onions impart a gentle sweetness and savory depth, creating a unique umami twist in the beverage.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Use plant-based butter and oat milk for a dairy-free version while preserving the creamy texture and flavor.
- → Which onions work best?
Yellow onions provide balanced flavor, but sweet Vidalia or red onions can offer subtle variations and nuance.
- → Is special equipment required?
You'll need a skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine or coffee maker, and milk frother or whisk.
- → How can I garnish this drink?
Top with ground black pepper or fresh chive for a savory finish that complements the bold flavors.
- → Does this beverage pair well with food?
It pairs nicely with sharp cheese croissants or other savory pastry items, enhancing the overall experience.