Save to Pinterest 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 this recipe when exploring savory twists for classic beverages. The result was surprisingly harmonious, merging comfort and intrigue in every sip.
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 to Pinterest This recipe has sparked fun conversations around our breakfast table—even the skeptics ended up asking for seconds after their first cautious sip.
Required Tools
Skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine or strong coffee maker, milk frother or whisk
Allergen Information
Contains dairy. For dairy-free/vegan, use plant-based alternatives. No gluten, eggs, or nuts.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 110, Total Fat: 4 g, Carbohydrates: 15 g, Protein: 4 g
Save to Pinterest Let curiosity be your guide—share and savor this latte for a memorable morning.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you caramelize onions for this latte?
Slice the onion thinly and cook in butter over medium-low heat with sugar and salt, stirring until golden and softened, about 12–15 minutes.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute plant-based butter and oat milk for the dairy components to create a creamy, vegan version.
- → Should I strain the onion purée?
Yes, straining through a fine-mesh sieve ensures a smooth texture, preventing any solids from disrupting the foamy milk’s consistency.
- → Which coffee equipment works best?
An espresso machine produces optimal results, but strong brewed coffee can substitute if needed for a robust flavor foundation.
- → What garnish complements this drink?
A sprinkle of ground black pepper or fresh chive adds savory complexity, enhancing both aroma and visual appeal.
- → Can I use sweet onions instead of yellow?
Yes, varieties like Vidalia or red onion provide nuanced sweetness and depth, adding subtle character to your beverage.