This vibrant cherry vanilla iced latte combines rich coffee with fruity sweetness, creating a cafe-worthy drink that's both healthier and more affordable than store-bought versions.
I've perfected this recipe through countless summer mornings, finding it's the ideal balance of indulgence and nutrition.
Essential Ingredients
- Cherries: Fresh or frozen dark sweet cherries provide best color and flavor
- Coffee: Cold brew offers smoothest taste, but chilled espresso works well
- Almond Milk: Vanilla-flavored provides extra depth
- Sweetener: Monk fruit keeps it sugar-free while maintaining sweetness
- Ice: Large cubes prevent quick dilution
Detailed Instructions
- Create Perfect Cherry Syrup:
- Combine pitted cherries, sweetener, and water in saucepan. Simmer gently, pressing cherries against pan sides until liquid thickens and coats spoon, about 10 minutes. Strain through fine-mesh sieve.
- Master Cold Brew Ratio:
- Use 1:4 coffee to water ratio for concentrate. Steep 12-24 hours in refrigerator. Filter twice through paper coffee filter for clarity.
- Achieve Ideal Assembly:
- Layer ingredients in specific order: syrup first, then ice, followed by frothed milk mixture. Pour coffee last for marbled effect.
- Perfect the Milk Froth:
- Combine cold milk and creamer. Froth until volume doubles. Pour immediately over ice for best texture.
The homemade cherry syrup transforms this drink. My family particularly enjoys using local dark cherries when in season.
Temperature Management
Chill all components before combining. Pre-chill glass for optimal temperature retention.
Cherry Selection
Choose deeply colored, firm cherries. Frozen often provide better value and convenience.
Make-Ahead Strategy
Prepare syrup and cold brew in advance. Store separately for quick assembly.
Storage Solution
Keep syrup in glass container. Cold brew stays fresh 7-10 days refrigerated.
Serving Suggestions
Offer additional cherry syrup on side. Consider coconut whip topping for indulgence.
After experimenting extensively, I've found this combination creates the perfect balance between coffee and fruit flavors while maintaining health-conscious ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long does the cherry syrup last?
- The cherry simple syrup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- → Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?
- Yes, any type of milk or creamer can be substituted based on your preference.
- → Does this work with regular brewed coffee?
- Yes, you can use strong chilled coffee instead of cold brew or espresso.
- → Can I make this sugar-free?
- Yes, use monk fruit sweetener or your preferred sugar substitute in the cherry syrup.
- → Do I need a milk frother?
- No, while frothing adds texture, the drink can be made without frothing the milk.