Save 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.
The first time I tried combining onions with coffee, I was skeptical. But the result was shockingly smooth, with a complexity that made each sip a memorable experience.
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: 300 ml (or oat milk for dairy-free option)
- 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. 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 It I introduced this latte at a brunch gathering and was surprised at how quickly it sparked curiosity. Even skeptical family members ended up finishing their cups and asking for the recipe.
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 It This latte is best enjoyed immediately while creamy and hot. Don&t be afraid to go outside the traditional coffee boundaries—the flavor is a unique adventure.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use plant-based ingredients?
Yes, substitute the butter and milk with your favorite plant-based alternatives for a dairy-free version.
- → Which onions work best for this drink?
Yellow onions are great, but feel free to experiment with sweet Vidalia or red onions for varied flavors.
- → How do I achieve silky onion purée?
Blend thoroughly with a bit of milk and strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove all solids for a smooth finish.
- → Is espresso essential or can I substitute?
Espresso delivers bold coffee notes, but strong freshly brewed coffee can work as a substitute.
- → What are tasty garnishes for serving?
A sprinkle of black pepper or fresh chive elevates the savory profile and presentation of this beverage.