Delicious Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte Recipe You’ll Love

Picture this: a warm summer afternoon, the sun shining bright, and a chilled glass of cherry vanilla iced latte in hand. The ruby-red hue of cherry syrup swirling into the creamy vanilla latte is almost hypnotic, and the first sip—oh, the first sip—is pure bliss. The sweet cherry flavor blends effortlessly with the smooth vanilla undertones, creating a drink that’s as refreshing as it is indulgent. Honestly, this recipe feels like a little luxury you can enjoy right in your own kitchen, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

The first time I whipped up this cherry vanilla iced latte, it was purely experimental—a spontaneous idea after spotting leftover cherries in my fridge. But it turned into one of those “wow, I wish I’d tried this sooner” moments. My family was hooked. My sister kept sneaking sips from my glass, and my friends now request it every time they visit. It’s the kind of drink that feels like a café specialty but is surprisingly easy to make at home.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests, brighten up your coffee routine, or just treat yourself to something special, this cherry vanilla iced latte will hit all the right notes. Trust me, you’re going to want to bookmark this one—it’s about to be your summer favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Comes together in just 10 minutes, no fancy equipment required.
• Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of what you need in your kitchen.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for brunches, afternoon pick-me-ups, or even dessert alternatives.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A hit with kids, adults, and anyone who loves a good iced coffee.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The cherry-vanilla combination is sweet, creamy, and absolutely irresistible.

What sets this recipe apart? It’s not just another flavored latte—it’s a blend of bold and sweet flavors that complement each other beautifully. The homemade cherry syrup adds a fresh, fruity twist while the vanilla essence rounds out the richness. And let’s not forget the coffee itself—smooth, strong, and just the right amount of kick. It’s the kind of drink that makes you close your eyes and savor every sip.

Perfect for impressing your guests or simply treating yourself, this cherry vanilla iced latte is comfort in a glass, with just the right amount of indulgence.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This cherry vanilla iced latte uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss.

• Fresh cherries: Pitted and chopped (or use frozen cherries for convenience).
• Sugar: Granulated sugar to make the cherry syrup.
• Vanilla extract: For that warm, comforting aroma and flavor.
• Espresso or strong coffee: Brewed and cooled (use decaf if preferred).
• Milk: Any milk works—whole milk, almond milk, or oat milk are all great options.
• Ice cubes: To keep it cool and refreshing.
• Optional whipped cream: For an extra touch of indulgence.

These ingredients are pantry staples and easy to substitute. For example, if cherries aren’t in season, you can use cherry preserves or canned cherry pie filling. If you’re avoiding dairy, swap in a creamy coconut or cashew milk for a delicious twist!

Equipment Needed

• Small saucepan: For making the cherry syrup.
• Blender or muddler: To puree or mash the cherries (optional).
• Coffee maker or espresso machine: Brew your coffee or espresso.
• Tall glass: Perfect for serving your iced latte.
• Strainer: To remove cherry pulp if you prefer a smoother syrup.
• Whisk or spoon: For mixing everything together.

If you don’t have an espresso machine, don’t worry! Strongly brewed coffee or instant espresso works just as well. And if you don’t have a strainer, you can leave the cherry bits in for a rustic texture—it’s all about preference.

Preparation Method

1. Start by making the cherry syrup. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of chopped cherries and 1/3 cup of sugar. Heat over medium-low until the cherries release their juices and the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Once the syrup is ready, remove it from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Let the mixture cool completely. If you prefer a smooth syrup, strain out the cherry pieces using a fine mesh strainer.
3. Brew coffee or espresso. You’ll need about 1/2 cup (120 ml) of strong coffee or 2 shots of espresso. Let it cool to room temperature or chill in the fridge for faster results.
4. Fill a tall glass with ice cubes. Pour the cooled coffee or espresso over the ice.
5. Add milk. Pour 1/2 cup (120 ml) of your chosen milk into the glass, stirring gently to combine.
6. Drizzle in 2-3 tablespoons of the cherry syrup (or adjust to taste) and stir until well mixed.
7. Optional: Top with whipped cream for an extra indulgent finish, and drizzle a little more cherry syrup over the top for a fancy touch.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade cherry vanilla iced latte!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips to make sure your cherry vanilla iced latte turns out perfect every time:

• Use ripe cherries: The sweeter and juicier the cherries, the better your syrup will taste. If cherries aren’t in season, go for frozen ones or high-quality jarred cherry preserves.
• Cool your coffee: Hot coffee can melt the ice and dilute the drink, so make sure to let your coffee cool before adding it to the glass.
• Adjust sweetness: Taste the cherry syrup and latte as you go. If you like your drinks less sweet, use less syrup or skip the sugar in the coffee.
• Experiment with milk: Different milks will give you different textures. Whole milk is rich and creamy, while almond or oat milk adds a nutty flavor.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the cherry syrup in advance and keep it in the fridge for up to a week. It’s great to have on hand for quick lattes!

Variations & Adaptations

• Dietary Needs: For a vegan version, replace regular milk with almond or soy milk and use a plant-based whipped cream.
• Seasonal Twist: In the fall, try swapping the cherry syrup for pumpkin spice syrup. In the winter, experiment with peppermint extract and a splash of chocolate syrup.
• Flavor Customizations: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to give the latte a warm, spiced flavor. You can even swap out the vanilla extract for almond extract for a nuttier profile.
• Different Brewing Methods: Not a fan of espresso? Use cold brew coffee for a smoother, less acidic drink.

Personally, I love adding a dash of cocoa powder to the cherry syrup for a chocolate-covered cherry vibe—it’s heavenly!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

The cherry vanilla iced latte is best served chilled with plenty of ice. For a café-worthy presentation, use a clear glass to show off the gorgeous swirls of cherry syrup and milk. Top with whipped cream and a cherry for an Instagram-worthy finish!

If you’re serving brunch, pair this drink with fresh pastries like croissants or muffins. For an afternoon treat, it goes great with a handful of chocolate-covered almonds or a slice of pound cake.

To store, keep the cherry syrup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. The coffee can be brewed and chilled ahead of time, too. When you’re ready to enjoy your latte, just assemble and serve! If you have leftovers, cover the glass and refrigerate for up to 24 hours—just give it a good stir before drinking.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 120-150 (depending on milk choice)
• Protein: 3-6g
• Sugar: 15g (adjustable based on syrup amount)
• Caffeine: 80-100mg

Cherries are a fantastic source of antioxidants and vitamin C, and coffee is known for its potential health benefits, like improved focus and metabolism. If you opt for plant-based milk, you can make this drink vegan and lower in calories without compromising flavor.

Conclusion

This cherry vanilla iced latte is the ultimate treat—easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re sipping it on your patio or sharing it with friends, it’s guaranteed to bring a little extra joy to your day.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe—try out different variations and find your personal favorite. I’d love to hear how you customize it! Drop a comment below and let me know how it turned out.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab some cherries, brew your coffee, and get ready to treat yourself to the most delicious iced latte you’ve ever had. Cheers to sweet sips and happy moments!

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen cherries work perfectly for the syrup. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.

What’s the best type of coffee for this recipe?

Strong brewed coffee or espresso works best. If you prefer a less intense flavor, you can use cold brew or dilute the coffee slightly with water.

Can I make this latte dairy-free?

Yes! Simply substitute regular milk with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. You can also use dairy-free whipped cream.

How long does the cherry syrup last?

The cherry syrup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

What’s the best way to serve this latte?

Serve it chilled in a tall glass with plenty of ice. Add whipped cream and extra cherry syrup for a fancy touch!

Print