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Onion Latte Caramelized Espresso

Featured in: All-American Desserts

This avant-garde beverage marries the subtle sweetness of deeply caramelized onions with robust espresso and creamy milk, creating a unique and intriguing flavor profile. To prepare, slowly caramelize thinly sliced onions in butter, then blend and strain until silky smooth. Espresso is freshly brewed and combined with a touch of onion purée, before topping with steamed, frothed milk for a luscious finish. Plant-based options and creative garnishes, such as chive or black pepper, can be used for varied preferences. A surprising union of savory and coffee notes, this drink caters to those eager to explore bold culinary ideas.

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Updated on Thu, 06 Nov 2025 14:47:00 GMT
Caramelized onions create a savory twist in this unique onion latte recipe. Save
Caramelized onions create a savory twist in this unique onion latte recipe. | dashofstates.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 was skeptical the first time I tried mixing caramelized onion into a latte, but the mellow sweetness and umami depth surprised me pleasantly. Now, it is my go-to for impressing friends who think they have tried every coffee trend.

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, 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 pan 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 the strained onion purée to each cup, stirring well.
Froth the milk:
Heat the remaining milk until steaming, then froth with 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.
Indulge in a delicious onion latte, featuring creamy milk and rich espresso. Save
Indulge in a delicious onion latte, featuring creamy milk and rich espresso. | dashofstates.com

My family was hesitant at first but quickly came around after the first sip. It is now a special treat we enjoy together on weekend mornings, often paired with pastries.

Required Tools

Skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine or coffee maker, milk frother or whisk

Allergen Information

Contains dairy (milk, butter). For vegan version, substitute with plant-based alternatives. Free from gluten, eggs, and nuts.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: Calories 110, Total Fat 4 g, Carbohydrates 15 g, Protein 4 g

Experience a bold onion latte topped with frothy milk for adventurous drinkers. Save
Experience a bold onion latte topped with frothy milk for adventurous drinkers. | dashofstates.com

Give this avant-garde latte a try if you love exploring unexpected food combinations. It is best enjoyed fresh, with good company.

Recipe FAQ

→ How do caramelized onions enhance the latte's flavor?

Caramelized onions bring a gentle sweetness and depth, complementing espresso with savory undertones and a soft, golden sweetness.

→ Can I make this dairy-free or vegan?

Yes, substitute plant-based butter and non-dairy milk like oat for a vegan-friendly variation with great results.

→ What kind of onions work best?

Yellow onions are classic, but experimenting with sweet or red varieties can add new layers of flavor and aroma.

→ Is special equipment required?

You'll need a skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso maker, and a milk frother or whisk for best texture and results.

→ How can I garnish for extra flavor?

Sprinkle ground black pepper, fresh chive, or serve with a cheese croissant for a delightful pairing and finish.

Onion Latte Caramelized Espresso

Savory latte with caramelized onion, espresso, and creamy milk for adventurous coffee enthusiasts.

Prep duration
10 min
Cook duration
15 min
Complete duration
25 min
Created by Jordan Miller


Complexity Medium

Heritage Contemporary / Experimental

Output 2 Portions

Nutritional considerations 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 (2 fluid ounces) freshly brewed espresso
02 1 1/4 cups whole milk or oat milk
03 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup, optional

Method

Phase 01

Caramelize the Onion: In a small skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add sliced onion, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until onions are deeply caramelized and golden, about 12 to 15 minutes.

Phase 02

Prepare Onion Purée: Transfer caramelized onions with any pan juices into a blender. Add 2 tablespoons milk and blend until completely smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve for a silky texture.

Phase 03

Brew Espresso and Incorporate Onion Purée: Brew 2 shots (2 fluid ounces) of espresso and divide evenly between two cups. Add 1 tablespoon strained onion purée to each, stirring thoroughly.

Phase 04

Steam and Froth Milk: Heat remaining milk until steaming. Froth with a milk frother or whisk until creamy and foamy.

Phase 05

Combine and Serve: Pour frothed milk over the espresso-onion base in each cup. Sweeten with honey or maple syrup if desired. Stir briefly and serve immediately.

Necessary tools

  • 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 medical guidance if you're uncertain.
  • Contains dairy from milk and butter.
  • For dairy-free or vegan adaptations, use plant-based alternatives.
  • No gluten, eggs, or nuts involved.
  • Verify product labels for undisclosed allergens.

Nutrient breakdown (each portion)

These figures are approximate and shouldn't replace professional health advice.
  • Energy: 110
  • Fats: 4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Proteins: 4 g