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.
When I first tried onion-infused drinks, I was genuinely surprised by how well the caramelized flavors complemented the espresso. The process creates a mellow depth that stands out, especially when shared with fellow coffee enthusiasts.
Ingredients
- 1 small yellow onion: Thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: For caramelizing onion
- 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar: Enhances sweetness
- Pinch of salt: Balances flavors
- 2 shots (60 ml) freshly brewed espresso: Strong and rich
- 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.
Pin Last weekend, my brother skeptically took his first sip of Onion Latte, and the look of surprise on his face was priceless. He ended up pouring a second cup and insisted we serve it at our next family brunch.
Required Tools
Skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine or strong coffee maker, milk frother or whisk
Allergen Information
Contains dairy. For dairy-free or vegan options, substitute with plant-based milk and butter. Always check for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 110, Total Fat: 4 g, Carbohydrates: 15 g, Protein: 4 g
Pin This latte guarantees a conversation starter and offers a remarkable savory-sweet experience. Give it a try for your next brunch gathering!
Recipe Q&A
- → What does onion add to a latte?
Caramelized onion introduces subtle sweetness and umami for a savory twist, balancing the espresso's bitterness.
- → Can I use non-dairy milk?
Yes, oat milk or other plant-based options work well and complement the onion's flavor for a dairy-free version.
- → Which onion variety works best?
Yellow onions provide a classic base; sweet Vidalia or red onions can offer nuances for adventurous palates.
- → How do I achieve silky texture in the onion purée?
Blend the caramelized onions with milk and strain through a fine-mesh sieve for a smooth, velvety result.
- → What toppings enhance flavor?
Sprinkle ground black pepper or fresh chives for added savory depth and a striking visual finish.
- → Is this drink vegetarian or vegan-friendly?
It is vegetarian as written; for vegan preparation, use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk.
