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 tried this Onion Latte after reading about experimental beverages in a small café. The surprising blend of savory onion and espresso awakened my appreciation for creative recipes and sparked plenty of kitchen curiosity.
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 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 latte recipe brought my family together for a memorable brunch, sparking laughter and curiosity as we tasted something truly new. It quickly became a favorite conversation starter at the table.
Required Tools
You'll need a skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine or strong coffee maker, and a milk frother or whisk to create this latte at home.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 110 calories, 4 grams of fat, 15 grams of carbohydrates, and 4 grams of protein.
Allergen Information
This beverage contains dairy (milk and butter). For dairy-free or vegan, use plant-based alternatives. No gluten, eggs, or nuts are present, but always check product labels.
Save Give this latte a try for a surprising treat that challenges tradition. Its flavor will intrigue and delight anyone who loves to explore creative coffee.
Kitchen Guide
- → How do caramelized onions affect the latte’s flavor?
Caramelized onions add subtle sweetness and savory complexity, enhancing the espresso’s richness and yielding a unique taste profile.
- → Can I make this dairy-free or vegan?
Absolutely. Substitute plant-based butter and non-dairy milk such as oat or almond to maintain creaminess without animal products.
- → Which onions work best for this beverage?
Yellow onions offer balanced sweetness, but experimenting with sweet or red onions delivers nuanced flavor variations.
- → Is a blender required for the onion base?
Yes, blending ensures a silky texture and allows the caramelized onion to integrate smoothly with the espresso and milk.
- → What garnish pairs well with this drink?
Ground black pepper or fresh chive makes a savory finishing touch, complementing the beverage’s robust character.
- → How should the espresso be prepared?
Brew two freshly pulled espresso shots or use strong coffee to maximize aromatic and flavor notes in the beverage.