Pin it 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.
The first time I tried onion in a latte, it was a daring experiment that turned out surprisingly smooth and delicious. Each sip reminded me of cozy mornings spent tinkering with flavor combinations in my kitchen.
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)
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 it My young twins giggled the first time I offered them a sip—though skeptical at first, they ended up loving the sweet-savory balance. Now it&s our fun breakfast treat whenever we feel like getting creative.
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, use plant-based alternatives. No gluten, eggs, or nuts. Always check product labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 110, Total Fat: 4 g, Carbohydrates: 15 g, Protein: 4 g
Pin it Serve your onion latte hot and fresh for the best experience. It&s sure to spark conversation at any brunch table!
Common Questions
- → What onions work best for this drink?
Yellow onions are ideal for balanced sweetness, but Vidalia or red onions add extra nuance.
- → Can I use dairy-free options?
Absolutely—oat milk and plant-based butter make an excellent alternative for a vegan-friendly version.
- → How do I achieve silky texture for the onion purée?
Blend the caramelized onions with milk, then strain thoroughly using a fine-mesh sieve.
- → Is sweetener necessary for the latte?
Optional! Add honey or maple syrup to your taste or to complement the savory-sweet balance.
- → What garnish enhances the flavor?
Try a sprinkle of ground black pepper or fresh chive for a layered, savory finish.
- → What food pairs well with this beverage?
A sharp cheese croissant is a delightful match, enhancing both sweet and savory notes.