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.
I first tested this recipe on a rainy afternoon, and the surprising depth of flavor won over even the most skeptical coffee lover in my house.
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.
Pin it When my family tried this latte, it sparked lively conversation and a few raised eyebrows – but everyone ended up finishing their cups!
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 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 Try this out for your next brunch—it will definitely become a topic of conversation. Serve immediately for the best taste!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I caramelize onions for this latte?
Slice onions thinly, cook slowly in butter with sugar and salt over medium-low heat until deeply golden and sweet.
- → Can I make this beverage dairy-free?
Yes, substitute plant-based butter and oat or other non-dairy milk to create a fully vegan version.
- → What type of espresso works best?
Freshly brewed shots from an espresso machine or strong coffee made with robust beans provide optimal results.
- → Is it necessary to strain the onion purée?
Straining ensures a silky consistency and prevents graininess, enhancing the smooth coffee texture.
- → How can I garnish this latte for added flavor?
Try a sprinkle of ground black pepper or fresh chive to accentuate the savory components and add visual appeal.
- → Is sweetness required in this beverage?
Sweetening with honey or maple syrup is optional and can be adjusted or omitted to suit individual taste preferences.