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 experimented with onion latte on a chilly afternoon, curious about pairing caramelized onions with espresso. The result was unexpectedly smooth and layered, and quickly became a talking point among friends who love trying new things.
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 This playful latte was a surprise success at a recent family brunch, where even the skeptics ended up asking for refills. Now it's a tradition any time we're in the mood for something truly unique.
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 Serve this onion latte fresh to enjoy maximum aroma and foam. It is sure to spark conversation at your next brunch or coffee break.
Kitchen Guide
- → What kind of onion works best?
Yellow onion provides subtle sweetness and richness, but experimenting with varieties like red or Vidalia offers unique flavors.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute plant-based butter and oat or other non-dairy milk for a vegan-friendly option.
- → How do I achieve smooth onion purée?
Blend caramelized onions with milk, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve to ensure a silky texture.
- → Is sweetener necessary?
Sweetener is optional; honey or maple syrup enhances sweetness, but omitting it allows the savory profile to shine.
- → What tools are needed?
You'll need a skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine or coffee maker, and a milk frother or whisk.
- → Does it pair well with food?
An Onion Latte is excellent with savory pastries, like sharp cheese croissants, accentuating its unique flavor.