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.
When I first tried combining caramelized onions with coffee, my friends were skeptical. But the layers of flavor in this latte surprised everyone. The experiment quickly became my new go-to for brunch gatherings with fellow adventurous eaters.
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 This latte recipe sparked lively debates in my family. Some love the daring depth of onion, while others prefer the classic sweet version. It always makes our weekend coffee ritual memorable and a little bit quirky.
Required Tools
Skillet , Blender , Fine-mesh sieve , Espresso machine or strong coffee maker , Milk frother or whisk
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (milk, butter). For dairy-free/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
Save Challenge your tastebuds and surprise guests with this inventive latte. A few sips reveal a complex balance of sweet, savory, and creamy in every cup.
Recipe FAQ
- → What flavor does caramelized onion add?
Caramelized onion brings a sweet, savory depth, complementing the espresso and adding unique complexity.
- → Can I use non-dairy milk?
Yes, oat or other plant-based milks work well and maintain the creamy texture of the drink.
- → What coffee works best for this?
Fresh, strong espresso is ideal for a balanced taste against the mellow onion. Use a coffee maker or espresso machine.
- → Any suggested garnishes?
Sprinkle with ground black pepper or fresh chive for extra savory notes and visual appeal.
- → How do I ensure a silky onion purée?
Blend thoroughly with a splash of milk, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve for a smooth, lump-free texture.
- → Is this suitable for vegans?
Substitute plant-based butter and milk to easily make the drink vegan-friendly.