Save
This vibrant cherry vanilla iced latte keeps our warm afternoons bright and refreshing. The sweet-tart flavor of cherries blends effortlessly with smooth vanilla almond milk and rich coffee to create a drink that feels like a special treat any time of day. Its beautiful pink hue always draws compliments and brightens my kitchen whenever I make it.
I first discovered this recipe on a sunny spring afternoon when I wanted something different from my usual iced coffee. Now it is my go-to drink when I want a little indulgence that’s still wholesome.
Ingredients List
- Two cups cherries pitted: to get maximum fresh flavor frozen cherries work great when fresh are out of season
- Half a cup sugar or monk fruit sweetener: to balance the tart cherry while keeping it natural monk fruit is a great low-calorie choice
- Half a cup water: to simmer cherries and dissolve sugar creating the base syrup
- Half a cup strong brewed coffee or your favorite coffee substitute: coffee strength sets the latte’s boldness so choose one you enjoy
- Half a cup vanilla almond milk: for a creamy, nutty background flavor choose unsweetened if you want to control sweetness
- Two tablespoons vanilla almond creamer: adds richness and enhances vanilla aroma pick a brand with natural ingredients for the best taste
- Two to three tablespoons homemade cherry simple syrup: adjusts sweetness and cherry intensity make extra to store chilled for future lattes
Cooking Steps
- Prepare The Cherry Syrup:
- Combine cherries, water, and sugar in a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally and press cherries gently to release juice. Bring mixture to a slight simmer and let it thicken while sugar dissolves fully.
- Strain And Cool The Syrup:
- Remove pot from heat once syrup thickens. Strain through a fine mesh into a glass container discarding solids. Let syrup cool completely before using to preserve freshness.
- Build The Latte:
- Fill a glass with ice and add two to three tablespoons of cherry syrup, adjusting to your desired sweetness.
- Froth The Milk And Creamer:
- Use a milk frother to blend vanilla almond milk with creamer for a velvety foam. If you do not have a frother, simply stir them together to keep creamy texture.
- Combine And Serve:
- Pour frothed milk and creamer mixture into your glass then slowly top with brewed coffee to keep layers. Stir gently before drinking to combine flavors evenly.
My favorite part is the homemade cherry syrup which feels like a little kitchen magic every time I make it. This drink reminds me of slow spring mornings where taking a few extra minutes to prepare felt like giving myself a warm hug.
Best Storage Practices
Store leftover cherry syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The syrup will keep its bright flavor and can be used in iced teas, cocktails, or more lattes. Do not freeze syrup as texture and flavor can change.
Ingredient Swaps
Try using maple syrup or honey in place of sugar for a different sweetness dimension. Keep in mind both add their own flavor notes. Regular milk and cream can be used if you do not have almond milk or creamer. Whole milk creates a wonderfully rich latte. If fresh or frozen cherries are not available, cherry juice concentrate can be mixed with water and sweetener to approximate the syrup, though it will be less fresh tasting.
Serving Pairings
Serve this latte alongside a light pastry such as almond biscotti or a fruit tart to complement the cherry flavors. A small bowl of fresh cherries or a cup of mixed berries brightens the table and adds a refreshing burst in between sips. For an afternoon treat, try it with a slice of vanilla pound cake or shortbread cookies.
Enjoy preparing your cherry vanilla iced latte and making it a new favorite in your home!
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → How do I make the cherry syrup?
Simmer pitted cherries with sugar and water over medium heat until the mixture thickens. Press the cherries to release juice, then strain to remove solids. Let the syrup cool before use.
- → Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh or frozen cherries work well. Fresh cherries provide a natural sweetness, while frozen cherries might add a slightly tart edge.
- → What milk alternatives can I use?
Vanilla almond milk is recommended for its smooth flavor, but regular milk or other plant-based options like oat or soy milk can be used too.
- → Is frothing the milk necessary?
Frothing adds a creamy texture and volume, but if you don't have a frother, simply pouring the milk and creamer will still create a delicious beverage.
- → How can I make the coffee flavor stronger?
Use espresso or double the brewed coffee amount to intensify the coffee notes in the drink.