Pin 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 encountered onion in a latte during a food festival in a small European bistro, where chefs dared everyone to try bold coffee pairings. I was hesitant, but that caramelized depth with espresso surprised me—it was warm, complex, and comforting, and I regularly make it for brunch-loving friends who enjoy venturesome flavors.
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. Low and slow cooking 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 for 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 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. Stir gently and serve immediately.
Pin My nephew loves when I make Onion Latte on cold mornings. The savory aroma fills the kitchen and encourages everyone to gather before breakfast. Now, it is a family tradition during winter weekends.
Required Tools
Skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine or strong coffee maker, and milk frother or whisk are helpful for easy preparation.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy: butter and milk. For dairy-free or vegan versions, plant-based alternatives work well. No gluten, eggs, or nuts, but always check labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 110. Total Fat: 4 g. Carbohydrates: 15 g. Protein: 4 g.
Pin Give this savory latte a try for your next breakfast or brunch gathering—it is sure to spark conversation and delight taste buds in new ways.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do onions enhance the flavor of this drink?
Caramelized onions add sweetness and complexity, offering a unique savory note that pairs surprisingly well with espresso.
- → Can I make this beverage dairy-free?
Yes, substitute regular butter and milk with plant-based versions like oat milk and vegan butter for an equally creamy texture.
- → Which type of onion works best?
Yellow onions are ideal for their balance of sweetness, but experimenting with Vidalia or red onions adds nuanced flavors.
- → What are suitable garnishes?
A sprinkle of ground black pepper or chopped chives enhances the savory finish, complementing the drink’s bold taste.
- → Is sweetener necessary?
Sweetener is optional—add honey or maple syrup if you prefer a touch of sweetness alongside the savory profile.
- → Do I need an espresso machine?
While ideal, a strong coffee maker can suffice; the rich brew balances the onion base’s unique flavor.