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 created this onion latte to impress friends who always crave surprising drinks. The caramelized onions blended seamlessly with espresso & milk, producing an incredible depth and savory sweetness in every sip. Experimenting with vegetables in beverages opened up a creative path I never anticipated.
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: 300 ml (or oat milk for dairy-free option)
- Honey or maple syrup: 1 teaspoon (optional, for sweetness)
Instructions
- Prepare the onion base:
- Melt butter in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onion, sugar & salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden, about 12 minutes. Low and slow brings out the best flavor.
- Blend the caramelized onions:
- Transfer onions & any pan juices to a blender. Add 2 tablespoons of milk. Blend until fully smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve for a silky purée.
- Make the latte:
- Brew 2 shots of espresso and divide between two cups. Add 1 tablespoon onion purée to each cup, stirring to combine.
- Froth the milk:
- Heat the remaining milk until steaming, then froth with a whisk or milk frother until creamy and foamy.
- Assemble:
- Pour frothed milk over espresso-onion mixture. Sweeten with honey or maple syrup if desired. Gently stir and enjoy immediately.
Save This latte sparked plenty of laughter & curiosity when I debuted it at a family brunch. Surprisingly, my aunt—usually coffee skeptical—asked for a second cup! Now it's a quirky favorite for our most daring gatherings.
Required Tools
Skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine or strong coffee maker, milk frother or whisk
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (milk, butter). Use plant-based butter & milk for vegan option. No gluten, eggs, or nuts. Always check labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 110, Total Fat: 4 g, Carbohydrates: 15 g, Protein: 4 g
Save Be bold and try this onion latte the next time you crave something original. It’s sure to start a conversation & might become your new experimental beverage favorite.
Recipe FAQs
- → How should onions be caramelized for this drink?
Sliced onion is cooked slowly in butter, sugar, and salt over medium-low heat until deep golden and sweet—about 12–15 minutes.
- → Is there a dairy-free version available?
Yes, substitute plant-based butter and non-dairy milk like oat milk for a creamy, vegan-friendly alternative.
- → What kind of espresso works best?
Use freshly brewed espresso from a machine or strong coffee maker; bold flavors complement the savory onion base.
- → Can sweetness be adjusted?
Add honey or maple syrup to taste; this balances the savory profile without overpowering the other flavors.
- → Which garnishes add extra flair?
A sprinkle of ground pepper or minced chives enhances complexity and offers a visually appealing finish.
- → What food pairs well with this beverage?
A sharp cheese croissant is a recommended pairing, amplifying the drink's savory notes and unique character.