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 caramelizing onions for a coffee drink on a whim, and the smooth, subtle depth transformed my usual latte into something truly memorable. The process felt surprisingly meditative, and the aroma while blending and frothing added a sense of newness to my morning routine.
Ingredients
- Yellow onion: 1 small, thinly sliced
- Unsalted butter: 1 tablespoon
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: Pinch
- Espresso: 2 shots (60 ml), freshly brewed
- Whole milk (or oat milk): 300 ml
- Honey or maple syrup: 1 teaspoon, 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 Last winter, my family gathered around the kitchen curious but hesitant as I unveiled the Onion Latte. Skepticism turned into delight as the savory aroma filled the room, and it quickly became a quirky favorite for weekend brunches.
Required Tools
Skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine or strong coffee maker, milk frother or whisk
Allergen Information
Contains dairy from milk and butter. For dairy-free or vegan options, use alternatives. Free from gluten, eggs, and nuts, but always check labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 110, Total Fat 4 g, Carbohydrates 15 g, Protein 4 g
Save Serve the Onion Latte immediately for maximum flavor and texture. Its intriguing taste will make for lively conversation and inspire new kitchen adventures.
Recipe Help & FAQs
- → Can I use dairy-free milk?
Yes, oat milk or other plant-based milks work well and keep the drink creamy and smooth.
- → Which onion is best for the beverage?
Yellow onions offer balanced sweetness, but sweet Vidalia or red onions add unique flavors.
- → How do I achieve silky onion purée?
Blend thoroughly and strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids, ensuring smoothness.
- → What pairs well with this drink?
A sharp cheese croissant or savory pastries complement the beverage's bold flavors nicely.
- → Can I make this vegan?
Yes, substitute plant-based butter and dairy-free milk for a fully vegan beverage.
- → How sweet is the finished drink?
Sweetness is subtle; adjust using honey or maple syrup to match your preference.