Alright, so last week, things got a little wild in my kitchen. Sunday morning, I’m trying to relax, trying to make myself a nice cherry vanilla iced latte, right? My usual. My wife, bless her heart, decides it’s the perfect time to reorganize the spice cabinet, which is directly above the stove.
You know, the one with that little latch that never quite catches? Yeah, that one. So I’m stirring the cherries for the syrup, steam everywhere, kinda zoned out to some old blues on the radio. Next thing I know, a cascade of dried bay leaves, peppercorns, and some ancient, dusty paprika comes raining down. Right into the simmering cherry syrup. If you are looking for a quick treat while you wait for your coffee, you should try these crispy air fryer twists. It was a mess, but I found some great inspiration in this alternative cherry vanilla guide to get me back on track.
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte
Ingredients for Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte
This isn’t a long list, which is always a win in my book. We’re talking ingredients you probably already have, or can grab on one trip to the store. Nothing exotic, nothing you need to order online from some specialty shop.
Wet Ingredients
½ cup water: Just regular old water for the syrup.
2 cups cherries, pitted: Frozen cherries are my secret weapon here. Always in season and consistently delicious.
½ cup cold brew: This is the backbone of your latte, providing a smooth, caffeinated base.
½ cup vanilla almond milk: I like the creamy texture and subtle vanilla notes it provides.
2 tbsp vanilla almond creamer: This adds that extra body and luxurious feel to the finished drink.
Dry Ingredients
½ cup sugar or monk fruit: You need this to extract the cherry flavor and build the syrup properly.
How to Make a Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte
Making the syrup is the first step. Combine your cherries, water, and sugar in a pot and simmer until thickened. Once cooled, strain the mixture and store it until you are ready to assemble your drink.
To assemble, fill a glass with plenty of ice and pour in the syrup. Add your frothed milk and finish by pouring the cold brew over the top to create those lovely, swirling layers.
Expert Tips for the Best Iced Latte
Always chill your ingredients, including the syrup, before mixing. For a savory snack pairing later, try these tropical grilled cheese dippers as a perfect lunch companion.
Health Benefits
Cherries are packed with antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. You can learn more about these tart cherry benefits through research on how they aid in muscle recovery and sleep quality.
Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherries, pitted I use frozen
- 0.5 cup sugar or monk fruit
- 0.5 cup water
- 0.5 cup cold brew or 2 shots chilled espresso
- 0.5 cup vanilla almond milk I use Califia Farms
- 2 tbsp vanilla almond creamer I use Califia Farms
- 2-3 tbsp homemade cherry simple syrup more or less to taste depending on sweetness preference
Instructions
- Combine cherries, water and sugar or monk fruit in a pot on the stove over medium heat.
- Bring to a slight simmer and keep an eye on the mixture, mixing lightly and pressing down on the cherries as the sugar dissolves.
- Once the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture has thickened, your simple syrup is done!
- Strain the syrup into a resealable glass container leaving out the cherries and let cool before using it for your drinks.
- Fill your favorite glass with ice, then pour in your desired amount of cherry syrup.
- Next, froth together the milk and creamer using a milk frother. You can skip this step if you don't have one!
- Pour in the frothed milk and creamer then top with cold brew or chilled espresso.
- Mix together and watch the beautiful pink color take form. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of cherries are best for this latte?
You can use fresh or frozen pitted cherries for this recipe. Frozen cherries are convenient and work just as well.
Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?
Yes, you can substitute regular milk or any other plant-based milk alternative for the almond milk.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the latte?
Adjust the amount of homemade cherry simple syrup to your taste preference. Start with 2-3 tablespoons and add more if desired.
Can I make this a hot latte?
While designed as an iced latte, you could warm the milk and coffee, then add the cherry syrup for a hot version.
How long does homemade cherry simple syrup last?
Homemade cherry simple syrup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
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