Description
This viral Cherry Vanilla Latte recipe combines the rich flavor of freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee with the sweet and fruity notes of cherry syrup and the warm aroma of vanilla. Whether served hot or iced, this delightful beverage is perfect for coffee lovers seeking a unique and refreshing twist on a classic latte.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 shots of freshly brewed espresso (about 2 ounces total) or 1/2 to 3/4 cup of very strong brewed coffee (as a substitution for espresso)
- Whole milk (for a creamy texture) or oat milk, almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk (as milk alternatives)
- 1.5 to 2 tablespoons cherry syrup (made with real fruit juice)
- 1 to 1.5 tablespoons vanilla syrup or 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract (as a substitution for vanilla syrup)
- Ice cubes (optional, for iced latte)
Optional Garnishes
- Whipped cream
- Extra cherry syrup
- Fresh cherries
- Vanilla bean flecks
Homemade Cherry Syrup (if making at home)
- Fresh or frozen pitted cherries
- Sugar
- Water
Instructions
- Brew the espresso or coffee: Prepare 2 shots of espresso using an espresso machine or brew 1/2 to 3/4 cup of very strong coffee if you do not have espresso.
- Prepare the glass: Pour 1.5 to 2 tablespoons of cherry syrup and 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of vanilla syrup into a 12 to 16 oz glass to create the flavor base.
- Add ice (optional): If making an iced latte, fill the glass generously with ice cubes to chill the drink thoroughly.
- Add milk: Pour your choice of milk over the syrups and ice; use cold milk for iced lattes or steamed, frothed milk for hot lattes.
- Combine espresso and milk: Slowly pour the hot espresso or strong coffee over the milk layer to maintain distinct layers and balance flavors.
- Mix the latte: Stir gently with a long spoon to evenly blend the cherry, vanilla, coffee, and milk flavors together.
- Garnish and serve: Add optional whipped cream, a drizzle of extra cherry syrup, fresh cherries, or vanilla bean flecks to enhance both presentation and taste, then serve immediately.
Notes
- You can substitute espresso with very strong brewed coffee if you don’t have an espresso machine.
- Use milk alternatives like oat, almond, soy, or coconut milk to make the recipe dairy-free or vegan-friendly.
- Adjust the amount of cherry and vanilla syrup to suit your sweetness preference.
- For a hot latte, steam and froth your milk before adding espresso.
- Homemade cherry syrup can be made by simmering pitted cherries with sugar and water until thickened.
- Adding whipped cream and fresh cherries elevates the presentation and flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cherry vanilla latte, cherry syrup latte, iced cherry vanilla coffee, espresso latte recipe, flavored latte
