Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte

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. Perfect for summer mornings, brunches, or whenever you’re craving something indulgent, this refreshing drink is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful drink in no time.
• Naturally Sweetened: The cherry syrup provides a sweet flavor without the need for artificial additives.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Enjoy it as an iced treat on hot days or warm it up for a cozy coffee experience.
• Dairy-Free Option: Using vanilla almond milk makes this latte suitable for those avoiding dairy.
• Beautiful Presentation: The blush color of the cherry syrup makes this drink visually stunning.

Tools and Preparation

Making your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte is simple when you have the right tools. Gather these essentials to ensure a smooth preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Saucepan
• Resealable glass container
• Frother (or a whisk)
• Glass for serving
• Strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Saucepan: Ideal for simmering the cherry syrup evenly without burning.
• Frother: Helps create a creamy texture in your almond milk and creamer for that café-style finish.
• Strainer: Ensures a smooth syrup by separating solids from liquids, resulting in a clear, flavorful syrup.

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

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How to Make Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte

Step 1: Make the Cherry Simple Syrup

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cherries, sugar (or monk fruit), and water.
2. Simmer gently, stirring occasionally. Press down on the cherries as the mixture heats to release their juices.
3. Once the sugar has fully dissolved and the syrup thickens slightly, remove from heat.
4. Strain into a resealable glass container, discarding the solids. Allow to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Iced Latte

1. Fill a glass with ice and add your desired amount of cherry syrup.
2. Froth together the almond milk and creamer. If you don’t have a frother, simply mix them well until combined.
3. Pour the frothed milk mixture into the glass over the syrup and ice.
4. Top with cold brew or chilled espresso and stir gently to combine.
5. Enjoy your beautiful blush-hued drink with its fruity flavor!

How to Serve Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte

Serving your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte can be just as delightful as making it. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this refreshing drink, perfect for any occasion.

Enjoy with a Straw

• Using a straw not only enhances the experience but also allows you to savor the blend of flavors in each sip.

Garnish with Fresh Cherries

• A few whole cherries on top make for a beautiful presentation and add an extra burst of flavor.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream can elevate your latte to dessert status, adding creaminess and richness.

Use Fun Glassware

• Serving the latte in unique or colorful glassware can make your drink feel special and Instagram-worthy.

Add a Splash of Sparkling Water

• For a fizzy twist, consider adding a splash of sparkling water to brighten up the flavors.

Create a Latte Flight

• Serve small versions of different flavored lattes alongside your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte for an exciting tasting experience.

How to Perfect Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte

Making the perfect Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte takes practice, but these tips will guide you toward coffee greatness.

• Choose Quality Coffee: Start with high-quality cold brew or espresso for the best taste.
• Balance Your Sweetness: Adjust the amount of cherry syrup according to your personal preference for sweetness.
• Froth Properly: If you want a frothy texture, ensure you froth the almond milk and creamer well until light and airy.
• Chill Your Glass: Pre-chill your glass before serving; this keeps your iced latte colder longer.
• Experiment with Milk Options: Try different plant-based milks like oat or coconut for varied flavors in your iced latte.
• Store Syrup Correctly: Keep leftover cherry syrup in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness for later use.

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Best Side Dishes for Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte

Pairing side dishes with your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte can enhance your breakfast or brunch experience. Here are some tasty options that complement this fruity coffee drink perfectly.

1. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on toasted bread adds healthy fats and pairs beautifully with coffee.
2. Fruit Salad: A light mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast that balances out the sweetness of the latte.
3. Granola Parfait: Layered yogurt, granola, and berries create a satisfying dish that goes hand-in-hand with your drink.
4. Mini Muffins: Bite-sized muffins, especially blueberry or banana nut, make delightful companions for sipping coffee.
5. Oatmeal Cookies: Chewy oatmeal cookies provide a hearty snack option that complements the cherry flavor well.
6. Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses with some crackers creates an elegant side that pairs nicely with iced coffee drinks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a perfect drink every time.

• Using unpitted cherries: Always use pitted cherries for the simple syrup to prevent any unpleasant bites and ensure a smooth texture.
• Overheating the syrup: Simmer the syrup gently. Overheating can lead to a burnt flavor, ruining the delicate cherry taste.
• Skipping the frothing step: Failing to froth the almond milk and creamer may result in an unappealing texture. Frothing adds creaminess and enhances the latte experience.
• Not adjusting sweetness: Everyone’s taste is different. Start with less cherry syrup and gradually increase it until you reach your desired sweetness.
• Using stale coffee: Make sure your cold brew or espresso is fresh. Old coffee can make your latte taste bitter and unappetizing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cherry simple syrup in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Keep the assembled Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte in the fridge for no more than 24 hours to maintain freshness.

Freezing Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte

• You can freeze the cherry syrup in ice cube trays for easy use later.
• The frozen syrup can last up to 3 months in an airtight container.

Reheating Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm your latte in an oven-safe glass for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat your latte in a microwave-safe cup for 30-second intervals until warm, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Pour your latte into a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying a Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte.

Can I make a Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte with regular milk?

Yes, you can use regular milk instead of vanilla almond milk if you prefer. Just keep in mind that it will no longer be dairy-free.

How can I customize my Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte?

You can add different flavored syrups such as hazelnut or caramel, or even experiment with different types of milk like oat or coconut for unique flavors.

What’s the best way to serve this Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte?

Serve it over plenty of ice in a tall glass, garnished with fresh cherries for an appealing presentation!

Can I enjoy a hot version of this Cherry Vanilla Latte?

Absolutely! Skip the ice and use freshly brewed espresso instead of cold brew for a cozy twist on this recipe.

Final Thoughts

The Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte is not just refreshing; it’s versatile too! You can easily adjust sweetness or substitute ingredients based on what you have at home. This delightful drink makes for an excellent treat any time of day—so why not give it a try? Enjoy discovering your favorite variations!

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