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.
I refined this Onion Latte after a trip to a contemporary cafe that featured savory drinks on their menu—my curiosity paid off and now it’s a conversation starter every time I make it at home.
Ingredients
- Yellow onion: 1 small, thinly sliced
- Unsalted butter: 1 tablespoon
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: Pinch
- Freshly brewed espresso: 2 shots (60 ml)
- Whole milk (or oat milk): 300 ml
- Honey or maple syrup (optional): 1 teaspoon, 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 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 When my family first tried this, they couldn’t believe there was onion in their coffee but ended up loving the savory-sweet balance—now it’s our favorite rainy day treat.
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 milk and butter. No gluten, eggs, or nuts, but always check product labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 110
Total Fat: 4 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Protein: 4 g
Save Embrace the unexpected and savor every sip—Onion Latte is sure to surprise and delight your taste buds!
Kitchen Questions
- → How do onions impact the flavor profile?
Caramelized onions bring subtle sweetness and umami notes, enhancing espresso's richness with a savory twist.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based butter and oat or non-dairy milk to enjoy a dairy-free variation without sacrificing creaminess.
- → What espresso works best for this drink?
Use freshly brewed, strong espresso to balance the sweetness and savory essence from the onions.
- → Is it possible to use other types of onions?
Definitely. Try sweet Vidalia or red onions for unique flavor nuances and different degrees of sweetness.
- → Are there recommended garnishes?
Sprinkle ground black pepper or fresh chive for a savory finish and extra flavor complexity.
- → What kitchen tools are needed for preparation?
You'll need a skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine or strong coffee maker, and milk frother or whisk.