A fruity twist on your classic iced latte, this Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte features a vibrant cherry simple syrup paired with creamy vanilla almond milk and smooth cold brew. It’s perfect for summer mornings, brunches, or whenever you’re in the mood for something indulgent. The delightful combination of cherry and vanilla makes this drink a refreshing treat that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Cherry Simple Syrup:
- For the Latte:
- How to Make Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte
- Step 1: Make the Cherry Simple Syrup
- Step 2: Prepare Your Iced Latte
- How to Serve Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte
- With Fresh Cherries
- Drizzled with Extra Syrup
- Accompanied by Whipped Cream
- Served in Unique Glassware
- Pairing with Snacks
- How to Perfect Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte
- Best Side Dishes for Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte
- Reheating Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte?
- Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?
- How do I store leftover Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte?
- Can I make this drink without sugar?
- What other flavors pair well with this latte?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Refreshing Flavor: The blend of cherries and vanilla creates a unique taste that stands out among typical coffee drinks.
- Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up this delightful drink in no time.
- Customizable Sweetness: Adjust the cherry syrup to cater to your personal taste, making it as sweet or as subtle as you like.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up, this latte fits right in.
- Dairy-Free Option: Using almond milk makes this drink suitable for those who prefer a dairy-free lifestyle.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte, you’ll need some essential tools that simplify the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Saucepan
- Strainer
- Glass
- Frother (optional)
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Saucepan: Necessary for simmering the cherry syrup until it thickens perfectly.
- Strainer: Helps separate the solids from the syrup, ensuring a smooth finish.
- Frother: While optional, it enhances the texture of your almond milk for a creamier latte experience.
Ingredients
For the Cherry Simple Syrup:
- 2 cups cherries, pitted (fresh or frozen)
- ½ cup sugar or monk fruit sweetener
- ½ cup water
For the Latte:
- ½ cup cold brew coffee (or 2 shots chilled espresso)
- ½ cup vanilla almond milk (such as Califia Farms)
- 2 tablespoons vanilla almond creamer (such as Califia Farms)
- 2–3 tablespoons cherry simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Ice
How to Make Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte
Step 1: Make the Cherry Simple Syrup
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cherries, sugar (or monk fruit), and water.
- Simmer gently while stirring occasionally. Press down on the cherries as they heat up to release their juices.
- Once the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly, remove it from heat.
- Strain the mixture into a resealable glass container, discarding any solids. Allow it to cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare Your Iced Latte
- Fill a glass with ice and pour in your desired amount of cherry syrup.
- Froth together the almond milk and creamer. If you don’t have a frother, mix them well using a whisk or jar.
- Pour the frothed milk mixture over the syrup-filled glass.
- Top with cold brew coffee or chilled espresso.
- Stir gently to combine all ingredients and enjoy your beautifully blush-colored drink!
How to Serve Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte
Serving your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte creatively can elevate your coffee experience. Here are some fun ideas to present this delightful drink.
With Fresh Cherries
- Use whole cherries as a garnish on the rim of the glass for a pop of color and flavor. This adds a fresh touch to your iced latte.
Drizzled with Extra Syrup
- For those who enjoy a sweeter drink, drizzle additional cherry simple syrup on top just before serving. It enhances both the taste and visual appeal.
Accompanied by Whipped Cream
- Top your latte with a dollop of dairy-free whipped cream for an indulgent treat. This creamy addition complements the cherry and vanilla flavors perfectly.
Served in Unique Glassware
- Use a mason jar or vintage glass to serve your latte. The right glass can make your drink look even more inviting, perfect for Instagram-worthy moments.
Pairing with Snacks
- Consider serving it alongside light snacks, such as almond biscotti or fruit skewers. These pairings enhance the overall experience without overpowering the drink.
How to Perfect Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte
To make sure your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte is as delicious as possible, follow these expert tips.
- Use quality cold brew: The base of your latte matters. Opt for high-quality cold brew coffee for a smoother taste.
- Sweeten to taste: Start with less syrup, then add more if desired. This allows you to control the sweetness level.
- Chill your glass: Pre-chilling your serving glass ensures that your iced latte stays cooler for longer.
- Experiment with milk alternatives: Try different brands or types of non-dairy milk for unique flavors and textures.
- Add ice last: Pour over ice after adding syrup and milk to prevent melting too quickly, ensuring a refreshingly cold drink.
- Garnish creatively: Don’t hesitate to experiment with toppings like cocoa powder or cinnamon for an extra flavor boost.
Best Side Dishes for Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte
Pairing side dishes with your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte can enhance the overall enjoyment of this refreshing drink. Here are some great options:
- Almond Biscotti
A crunchy dipper that complements the smoothness of the latte beautifully. - Fruit Skewers
Fresh fruits like strawberries and pineapple provide a vibrant contrast and refreshing bite. - Mini Muffins
Bite-sized muffins in flavors like blueberry or lemon are perfect sweet accompaniments. - Granola Bars
A quick snack option that adds texture and energy, making it great for breakfast or brunch. - Cheese Platter
A light selection of soft cheeses pairs surprisingly well with coffee flavors, adding richness to your meal. - Savory Scones
Choose scones made with herbs or cheese for a delightful salty contrast against the sweet latte.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to help you perfect your drink.
- Overcooking the syrup: If you cook the cherry simple syrup for too long, it can become too thick or caramelize. Keep an eye on it and remove it from heat as soon as it thickens slightly.
- Using too much coffee: A common mistake is adding excessive cold brew or espresso, which can overpower the delicate cherry and vanilla flavors. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.
- Skipping the frothing step: Not frothing the almond milk and creamer can result in a less creamy texture. Make sure to froth them together for that smooth mouthfeel.
- Not adjusting sweetness: Everyone’s taste preference varies; if you don’t taste your drink before serving, it may end up too sweet or not sweet enough. Always taste and adjust the cherry simple syrup as needed.
- Neglecting ice quality: Using stale or flavored ice can alter the drink’s taste. Use fresh, clean ice for the best results.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store the Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep the cherry simple syrup separately in a sealed jar; it lasts up to 1 week.
Freezing Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte
- You can freeze portions of the latte in ice cube trays for later use.
- The cherry syrup can also be frozen in ice cube trays for easy access.
Reheating Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte
- Oven: Preheat to a low temperature (around 200°F) and place your latte in an oven-safe container until warm, about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring between intervals until warm but not boiling.
- Stovetop: Gently reheat on low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently to avoid scorching.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte?
A Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte is a refreshing coffee drink made with cold brew coffee, cherry simple syrup, and vanilla almond milk. It’s perfect for summer!
Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?
Yes, you can substitute regular milk if you prefer. However, using vanilla almond milk enhances the flavor profile of this iced latte.
How do I store leftover Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte?
Store any leftover latte in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated if necessary.
Can I make this drink without sugar?
Absolutely! You can use monk fruit sweetener or another sugar alternative to make a lower-calorie version while still enjoying that sweet cherry flavor.
What other flavors pair well with this latte?
You might enjoy adding flavors like chocolate or cinnamon to your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte for extra indulgence!
Final Thoughts
The Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte is not only a delightful treat but also versatile. You can easily customize it based on your taste preferences by adjusting sweetness or trying different milks. Enjoy this refreshing drink during summer mornings or whenever you’re craving something special!
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Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
Description
Indulge in a refreshing twist on your iced coffee with this delightful Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte. This vibrant drink combines the rich flavors of cold brew coffee with homemade cherry simple syrup and creamy vanilla almond milk, making it the perfect summer refreshment. Easy to prepare and customizable to your taste, this latte is ideal for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat. The unique blend of sweet cherries and smooth vanilla creates a luscious experience that will keep you coming back for more. Elevate your coffee game with this beautiful blush-colored drink that looks as good as it tastes!
Ingredients
- 2 cups pitted cherries (fresh or frozen)
- ½ cup sugar or monk fruit sweetener
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup cold brew coffee (or 2 shots chilled espresso)
- ½ cup vanilla almond milk
- 2 tablespoons vanilla almond creamer
- Ice
Instructions
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cherries, sugar or monk fruit, and water. Simmer while stirring until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Strain the syrup into a container and let it cool completely.
- Fill a glass with ice and pour in cherry syrup.
- Froth together almond milk and creamer; pour over the syrup.
- Top with cold brew coffee and stir gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 drink (300ml)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
