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Onion Latte Caramelized Espresso

Featured in: Sweet & Simple Cravings

This Onion Latte combines deeply caramelized onions for a subtle, savory sweetness with robust espresso and creamy milk. Begin by caramelizing sliced yellow onion with butter and sugar, blending for smoothness and straining for texture. Espresso is brewed and blended with the onion purée before being finished with steamed, frothed milk. Optional sweeteners like honey or maple syrup add a gentle touch. The result is a daring, flavor-forward beverage that rethinks the boundaries of coffee, perfect for those eager to explore new taste experiences.

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Updated on Thu, 06 Nov 2025 10:41:00 GMT
Savory onion latte topped with creamy froth, perfect for adventurous coffee lovers. Save
Savory onion latte topped with creamy froth, perfect for adventurous coffee lovers. | frizplo.com

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 tasted onion in a sweet context while traveling abroad & was surprised by its mellow, almost caramel-like finish. When whisked into a latte, the result is unexpectedly delicious and truly unique.

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 option)
  • Honey or maple syrup: 1 teaspoon, optional

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.
A unique onion latte featuring rich espresso, caramelized onions, and velvety milk. Save
A unique onion latte featuring rich espresso, caramelized onions, and velvety milk. | frizplo.com

We shared this unusual latte during a rainy weekend brunch, and even the skeptical family members were impressed after the first sip.

Required Tools

You will need a skillet for caramelizing, a blender to puree the onions, a sieve to strain them, and either an espresso machine or strong coffee maker. A milk frother or whisk helps create luxuriously foamed milk.

Allergen Information

Contains dairy milk and butter. Swap for plant-based versions for vegan preparation. The recipe does not use gluten, eggs, or nuts. Always check labels for hidden ingredients.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Each serving provides around 110 calories, 4 g total fat, 15 g carbohydrates, and 4 g protein.

Indulge in a bold onion latte, blending sweet onions and deep espresso flavors. Save
Indulge in a bold onion latte, blending sweet onions and deep espresso flavors. | frizplo.com

Serve immediately for the freshest flavor & foamiest texture. Let your tastebuds explore the edge of savory coffee innovation.

Recipe FAQ

→ How do caramelized onions affect the drink's flavor?

Caramelized onions add a mellow sweetness and slight savory depth, making the latte rich and uniquely aromatic.

→ Can I use non-dairy milk and butter?

Yes, oat milk and plant-based butter work well for a vegan-friendly version with similar creamy results.

→ Will the onion taste overpowering?

No, using a small onion and proper caramelization ensures a subtle savory flavor that complements espresso.

→ Can other onion varieties be used?

Sweet onions or red onions can be used for nuanced flavor; experiment to find your preferred taste.

→ What garnish complements this latte?

A sprinkle of black pepper or freshly snipped chives adds a savory finishing touch to each serving.

→ Is this drink suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, with dairy or plant-based options, this beverage suits vegetarian dietary needs.

Onion Latte Caramelized Espresso

Caramelized onion, rich espresso, and creamy milk unite for an avant-garde, savory coffee beverage. Adventurous flavor awaits.

Prep duration
10 min
Time to cook
15 min
Complete duration
25 min
Created by Madison Young

Classification Sweet & Simple Cravings

Complexity Level Medium

Cultural Origin Contemporary / Experimental

Output 2 Portion Count

Dietary requirements Meat-Free, No Gluten

Components

Onion Base

01 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
02 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
03 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
04 Pinch of salt

Latte Components

01 2 shots freshly brewed espresso (2 ounces total)
02 1 1/4 cups whole milk or oat milk
03 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup, optional

Directions

Step 01

Create Caramelized Onion Base: Melt unsalted butter in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced yellow onion, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Sauté gently, stirring occasionally, until the onions reach a deep golden caramelization, approximately 12 to 15 minutes.

Step 02

Puree and Strain the Onion: Transfer the caramelized onions along with any pan juices to a blender. Add 2 tablespoons of milk and blend until completely smooth. Pass the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve, discarding any solids, and reserve the silky purée.

Step 03

Combine Espresso and Onion Purée: Prepare 2 shots of freshly brewed espresso. Divide evenly between two serving cups. For each, add 1 tablespoon of the strained onion purée and mix well to integrate the flavors.

Step 04

Froth the Milk: Heat the remaining milk until steaming but not boiling. Froth vigorously using a milk frother or whisk until the texture is creamy and foamy.

Step 05

Finish and Serve: Pour the frothed milk over the espresso-onion blend in each cup. Add honey or maple syrup if desired. Gently stir and serve immediately.

Necessary tools

  • Small skillet
  • Blender
  • Fine-mesh sieve
  • Espresso machine or strong coffee maker
  • Milk frother or whisk

Allergy details

Review each component for potential allergens and seek professional healthcare advice if you're uncertain.
  • Contains dairy: milk and butter; substitute plant-based options for dairy-free or vegan dietary requirements.

Nutritional breakdown (per portion)

These values are provided as estimates only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy Content: 110
  • Fats: 4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Proteins: 4 g