Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte

If you’re craving a refreshingly vibrant coffee treat that feels both indulgent and wholesome, the Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte is your new best friend. This delightful drink marries rich espresso-like coffee with luscious homemade cherry syrup and smooth vanilla almond milk, creating a naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and low-sugar pick-me-up that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you need a cool afternoon refresher or a charming beverage to brighten your morning, this Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte is a simple yet captivating way to bring bold flavor and colorful charm into your day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is straightforward, but each one plays a vital role in bringing the full flavors and perfect texture of the Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte to life. From the fresh cherries that provide juicy sweetness to the cozy vanilla almond milk that adds creaminess without overpowering, you’ll appreciate how thoughtfully simple this recipe is.

• 2 cups cherries, pitted (frozen works great): The star ingredient that delivers natural tartness and a gorgeous pink hue.
• ½ cup sugar or monk fruit: Sweetens the cherry syrup; monk fruit is a great low-glycemic option.
• ½ cup water: The base for gently simmering the cherry syrup.
• ½ cup strong brewed coffee (or preferred coffee substitute): Provides the bold espresso flavor that contrasts beautifully with the cherry sweetness.
• ½ cup vanilla almond milk (like Califia Farms): Adds smooth creaminess with a hint of vanilla, enhancing the latte’s warmth.
• 2 tbsp vanilla almond creamer (like Califia Farms): Boosts velvety texture and intensifies vanilla notes.
• 2–3 tbsp homemade cherry simple syrup (adjust to taste): Infuses the drink with vibrant cherry flavor and delicate sweetness.

How to Make Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte

Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Simple Syrup

Start by combining your pitted cherries, sugar or monk fruit, and water in a saucepan over medium heat. As the mixture comes to a gentle simmer, stir occasionally and press the cherries to release their luscious juices. This process transforms the fruit into a naturally sweet, vivid syrup that is the heart of your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte. Once the syrup thickens and the sugar is fully dissolved, strain it carefully to separate the silky liquid from the cherry solids, then let it cool before using.

Step 2: Brew Your Coffee

Next, brew a strong cup of coffee or your preferred espresso substitute. Since the drink relies on the coffee’s boldness to balance the cherry syrup’s sweetness, don’t be shy about going a bit strong here. This coffee will add a rich depth of flavor that makes the latte so irresistible.

Step 3: Froth the Vanilla Almond Milk and Creamer

While your syrup cools and coffee brews, froth the vanilla almond milk and creamer together until it’s light and airy. If you don’t have a milk frother on hand, no worries—simply give it a good shake in a sealed jar or whisk vigorously to create some natural frothiness. This creamy layer is what gives the Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte that lovely latte texture without using dairy.

Step 4: Assemble Your Latte

Fill a tall glass with ice, then add 2 to 3 tablespoons of your ruby-red cherry syrup, adjusting the sweetness to suit your taste. Pour the frothed vanilla almond milk mixture over the ice and syrup, then gently top it off with the strong brewed coffee. Give it a slow stir to swirl all those beautiful flavors together and behold your vibrant, inviting Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte!

How to Serve Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte

Garnishes

A great way to elevate your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte is with simple yet charming garnishes. Try a few fresh or frozen cherries perched on a skewer alongside a sprig of mint for a refreshing pop of color and fragrance. A light dusting of cinnamon or cocoa powder can also add a subtle spice that complements the creamy vanilla notes splendidly.

Side Dishes

This drink pairs wonderfully with light, fresh treats that won’t overpower your palate. Think buttery almond biscotti, delicate sugar cookies, or a sliced fresh fruit platter. These options keep the focus on the beverage while offering delightful bites that enhance the overall experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Serving your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte in a clear glass not only showcases its beautiful pink hue but also makes it more inviting to sip. For special occasions, layer it in a parfait glass with alternating layers of whipped dairy-free cream and cherries for a luscious twist. You can also rim the glass with crushed freeze-dried cherries or colored sugar crystals to add extra flair and texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover cherry syrup, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This keeps it fresh and ready to brighten up future lattes, cocktails, or even desserts without losing any of its vivid flavor.

Freezing

The cherry syrup freezes well! Pour it into ice cube trays and freeze for easy, portioned additions to drinks or recipes whenever you want. Just thaw the cubes or stir them directly into cold beverages for immediate flavor boosts.

Reheating

When reheating leftover latte or syrup, warm gently over low heat to preserve the delicate cherry notes and avoid bitterness from the coffee. For the latte, stir well before serving and add fresh ice cubes to keep it chilled if you prefer it iced.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh cherries work wonderfully in this recipe and can even add a brighter flavor. Just make sure they’re pitted and ripe for the best syrup results.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, this Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte is completely dairy-free when you use vanilla almond milk and creamer, making it an excellent option for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

How can I make the latte less sweet?

Simply reduce the amount of cherry syrup you add or use a sugar substitute like monk fruit to make the syrup less sweet without losing the fruity flavor.

Can I make the latte hot instead of iced?

Definitely! Swap the ice for warm milk and syrup, combine with hot brewed coffee, and enjoy a cozy Cherry Vanilla Latte on chilly days.

What can I substitute for almond milk?

Any plant-based milk like oat, soy, or coconut milk works well, but try to choose a vanilla-flavored version to keep that lovely hint of sweetness and complement the cherry syrup.

Final Thoughts

Creating your own Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte is such a rewarding little luxury—full of fresh, vibrant flavor and creamy goodness without any fuss. Whether you’re treating yourself on a warm afternoon or impressing guests with something a bit different, this recipe brings warmth, color, and joy in every sip. Give it a try and fall in love with this naturally gluten-free, dairy-free favorite that’s destined to become a staple in your beverage rotation.