Save Pin 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 tried this onion latte at a quirky pop-up cafe and it was a revelation—the caramelized onions melded beautifully with the coffee, creating a cozy and sophisticated drink that I had to recreate at home.
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 Pin My family was hesitant at first, but after just one sip, the rich flavors and creamy texture won everyone over—now it's a favorite weekend treat.
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: 110 calories, 4 g total fat, 15 g carbohydrates, 4 g protein
Save Pin Enjoy this latte immediately for maximum flavor and aroma. Let your creativity lead the way—the possibilities are endless!
Recipe FAQs
- → What is the flavor profile of this latte?
The drink features savory-sweet notes from caramelized onion, balanced by espresso bitterness and creamy milk.
- → Can I make it vegan?
Yes, simply use plant-based butter and any dairy-free milk, such as oat or almond, for a vegan version.
- → Which onions work best?
Yellow onions are classic, but sweet Vidalia or red onions offer unique and nuanced flavor variations.
- → What tools do I need?
A skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine or strong coffee maker, and milk frother are recommended.
- → How can I garnish it?
Try a sprinkle of ground black pepper or fresh chives to add savory notes and a visually appealing finish.
- → What food pairs well with this beverage?
It pairs well with sharp cheese croissants or other savory pastries for a complementary flavor experience.