Pin It A bold and unconventional latte that blends subtle sweetness from 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 made Onion Latte, I was skeptical but curious. To my surprise, the blend of caramelized onion and espresso delivered a rich and unexpected depth that left everyone reaching for a second sip.
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)
- Honey or maple syrup: 1 teaspoon (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. Low and slow yields the best flavor.
- Blend the caramelized onions:
- Transfer the caramelized onions and juices to a blender. Add 2 tablespoons of milk and blend until completely smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve for a silky texture.
- Make the latte:
- Brew 2 shots of espresso and divide between two cups. Add 1 tablespoon of strained onion purée to each cup, stirring well to combine.
- Froth the milk:
- Heat the remaining milk until steaming, then froth with a milk frother or whisk until creamy and foamy.
- Assemble:
- Pour frothed milk over the espresso-onion mixture in each cup. Sweeten with honey or maple syrup if desired. Gently stir and serve.
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Our family tried Onion Latte on a rainy afternoon and the laughter over its quirky taste became a cherished memory. Now, it's a fun experiment we revisit and share with guests.
Required Tools
Skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine or coffee maker, milk frother or whisk
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (milk, butter). For dairy-free/vegan, use plant-based options. No gluten, eggs, or nuts. Always check product labels.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 110 calories, 4 g total fat, 15 g carbohydrates, 4 g protein
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Serve immediately while hot and foamy for best flavor. Onion Latte is sure to spark conversation at any gathering.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I caramelize onions for this beverage?
Slice the onion thinly and cook slowly in butter with sugar and a pinch of salt over medium-low heat until golden and soft, about 12–15 minutes.
- → Can I use non-dairy milk for the Onion Latte?
Yes, oat milk works well for a dairy-free version. Replace butter with plant-based alternatives for a vegan option.
- → What type of onion works best?
Yellow onion is great, but experimenting with sweet or red onions can yield different flavor profiles and levels of sweetness.
- → How do I achieve a silky texture in the onion base?
Blend the caramelized onions with a small amount of milk until smooth, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve for a creamy result.
- → Is this drink suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it is vegetarian. For vegan options, use plant-based milk and butter to replace the dairy components.
- → What does this beverage pair well with?
It complements sharp cheese croissants or savory pastries for an unusual but delicious flavor pairing.