Name: Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte: Your Guilt-Free Summer Sip
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 cups pitted cherries (fresh or frozen); 0.5 cups sugar or monk fruit (sweeten to taste); 0.5 cups water; 1 cup brewed coffee (decaf optional); 0.5 cups vanilla almond milk (or oat/coconut milk); 2 tablespoons vanilla almond creamer (can be omitted or replaced); to taste homemade cherry simple syrup

As the sun begins to warm the air, I crave something refreshing that stirs my taste buds – enter the Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte! This delightful drink harmoniously blends rich coffee with the sweet essence of cherry syrup, creating an invigorating escape from your usual cup of joe. Best of all, this Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte is dairy-free and low in sugar, making it a guilt-free pleasure perfect for any time of day. Its creamy texture and fruity flavor make it a versatile beverage, easily tailored with different milk options for all dietary preferences. Whether you’re lounging in the sun or needing a pick-me-up, you’ll find joy in every sip. What’s your go-to twist for a refreshing drink?

Why Try This Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte?

Refreshing Twist: This Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte offers a delightful flavor explosion that will brighten your day!

Customizable Delight: Enjoy it hot or cold—add your favorite plant-based milk to align with your dietary needs!

Guilt-Free Indulgence: With its low-sugar profile, you can savor this sweet treat without the extra calories.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for summer gatherings or solo sips, this drink is sure to impress friends and family alike.

Quick and Easy: Whip it up in no time! With just a few simple steps, you can transform your coffee routine.

If you’re looking for more refreshing drink ideas, why not check out our delicious Iced Raspberry Vanilla?

Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte Ingredients

For the Cherry Syrup

Pitted Cherries – Use fresh or frozen for natural sweetness and vibrant flavor.
Sugar or Monk Fruit – Sweeten to your taste; honey or maple syrup can be a great alternative.
Water – Essential for developing the cherry syrup; no substitutions needed.

For the Latte

Brewed Coffee – The foundation of the drink; feel free to brew decaf for a caffeine-free treat.
Vanilla Almond Milk – Adds a creamy texture and lovely vanilla notes; can be swapped with oat or coconut milk.
Vanilla Almond Creamer – Boosts creaminess; can be omitted or replaced with any plant-based creamer.
Homemade Cherry Simple Syrup – Tailor the quantity to your sweetness preference for a delicious Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte

Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Syrup
In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of pitted cherries, ½ cup of water, and ½ cup of sugar or monk fruit. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches a gentle simmer and thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. Watch for a rich aroma and a vibrant color change, indicating it’s ready.

Step 2: Strain the Syrup
Once the cherry syrup has thickened, remove it from heat. Place a fine-mesh strainer over a glass container and carefully pour the syrup mixture through to separate the solids from the liquid. Allow it to cool to room temperature, watching as it transitions to a glossy finish—this will be the base of your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte.

Step 3: Assemble the Iced Latte
Fill a large glass with ice cubes, making sure to leave enough room for the other ingredients. Pour in the desired amount of your cooled cherry syrup, coating the bottom of the glass beautifully. The vibrant cherry hues will peek through the ice, setting the stage for your refreshing drink.

Step 4: Froth the Milk
In a separate container, froth ½ cup of vanilla almond milk and 2 tablespoons of vanilla almond creamer until foamy. Aim for a light, airy texture that should take about 1-2 minutes. If you don’t have a frother, you can shake the milk vigorously in a jar for the same result.

Step 5: Pour the Coffee
Brew a fresh cup of coffee, using your preferred method, and pour it carefully over the ice and cherry syrup. Watch as the dark coffee cascades down, creating a beautiful layered effect against the bright cherry syrup. This visual contrast sets up an enticing Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte.

Step 6: Mix and Enjoy
Using a long spoon, stir the drink gently to combine the cherry syrup with the coffee and milk, swirling the colors together. Take a moment to appreciate the aroma and vibrant hues. Savor the refreshing Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte as a perfect treat any time of the day.

Make Ahead Options

These Cherry Vanilla Iced Lattes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the homemade cherry syrup up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and vibrant. Additionally, brew your coffee and allow it to cool, refrigerating it for up to 24 hours before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte, simply layer the ice, cherry syrup, and chilled coffee, then froth your milk just before serving for a delightful, creamy finish. This prep will ensure every sip is just as delicious as freshly made!

What to Serve with Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte

Elevate your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte experience by pairing it with complementary flavors and textures that round out your meal.

Avocado Toast: Topped with fresh herbs, the creamy avocado enhances the latte’s fruity notes, making for a delightful breakfast or brunch.
Dairy-Free Muffins: Fluffy, moist muffins add sweetness and a satisfying bite that harmonizes perfectly with the refreshing drink.
Crunchy Granola Bowl: A combination of nutty granola and fresh fruits provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy iced latte, creating a delightful morning treat.
Cinnamon Roll: Each swirl of cinnamon and icing adds warmth and spice, inviting you to take another sip of your chilled Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte.

Enjoy serving your refreshing drink alongside these treats, ensuring a delightful experience with every sip!

Iced Tea: A chilled herbal or fruit-infused iced tea keeps the refreshing theme alive, offering a different kind of cool, revitalizing flavor.
Frozen Cherries: For a light snack, frozen cherries can be a fun sidekick, offering the same delightful cherry flavor while staying icy cool.
Cashew Nut Mix: A handful of lightly salted cashews provides a rich, buttery flavor that balances the sweetness of your iced latte beautifully.

Storage Tips for Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte

Fridge: Store any leftover cherry syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, ensuring you can enjoy this delicious Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte again soon.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze extra cherry syrup in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag and enjoy the delightful flavors for up to 3 months!

Reheating: If you have leftover coffee mix, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add some extra vanilla almond milk for creaminess and freshness when enjoying later.

Expert Tips for the Best Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte

Sweetness Adjustment: Start with less sugar in your cherry syrup. You can always add more if needed, allowing for a lighter flavor profile.
Frothing Alternative: If a frother isn’t at hand, use a jar! Just shake the almond milk and creamer vigorously for the same fluffy texture.
For Hot Version: To transform this iced latte into a cozy warm drink, skip the ice and pour brewed coffee directly over frothed warm milk.
Cherry Choice: Opt for ripe, sweet cherries for an ideal flavor. If they’re out of season, frozen cherries work wonderfully and save on time!
Check Labels: Ensure that your milk alternatives and sweeteners are suitable for your dietary needs, avoiding any allergens for a worry-free Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte experience.

Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delightful drink to fit your taste and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Swap vanilla almond milk for oat, soy, or coconut milk for a different creamy experience. Each milk brings its heartwarming flavor, making your latte truly your own.
Low-Sugar: Use agave syrup or erythritol instead of sugar or monk fruit for a sweeter taste without the calories. This way, you can enjoy your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte without a sugar rush.
Flavor Boost: Add a splash of almond or hazelnut extract for an extra layer of fun flavor. Imagine the aroma as it mingles with the rich coffee and cherry sweetness!
Iced or Hot: Enjoy this latte iced for a refreshing summer treat or skip the ice for a cozy hot version during chilly days. Either way, this drink remains a delightful escape.
Fruity Twist: Incorporate other fruits like raspberries or strawberries in the syrup for a fruity medley. For inspiration, check out our delicious Iced Raspberry Vanilla!
Extra Texture: Toss in some whipped coconut cream on top for added creaminess; it creates a lovely texture contrast as you sip.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper for a warm spiced version. This unconventional twist opens up a whole new world of flavors to explore.

Each variation offers a unique experience, so go ahead and make this Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte your own!

Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe cherries for the syrup?
Absolutely! Look for cherries that are plump and firm with a deep, rich color. Avoid any with dark spots all over or bruises, as they may be overripe or starting to spoil. Sweet, organic cherries will offer the best flavor for your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte!

How should I store leftover cherry syrup?
Very simple! Store the cherry syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just pour the syrup into ice cube trays, freeze until solid, then transfer the cubes into a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy the flavors for up to 3 months!

Can I freeze my Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte?
While I wouldn’t recommend freezing the whole finished latte due to the texture of the milk, you can freeze the cherry syrup separately (as mentioned above). This lets you make fresh lattes anytime! Just blend together the frozen syrup with fresh coffee and milk whenever you crave that refreshing sip.

What if I don’t have a frother for my milk?
No problem at all! If you don’t have a frother on hand, place the vanilla almond milk and creamer in a jar with a tight lid. Give it a good shake for about 30-60 seconds. This will create a lovely foamy texture suitable for your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte.

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
For sure! It’s wise to keep in mind that while cherries are safe for most humans, they can be harmful to pets, specifically dogs. Always keep this delightful drink hidden away from your furry friends. Additionally, check the labels on your sweeteners and almond milk for allergens if someone has sensitivities or dietary restrictions.

Can I make this latte hot instead of iced?
Definitely! To enjoy a cozy hot version of your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte, simply skip the ice. Prepare your cherry syrup and froth the milk as usual. Then, brew a strong cup of coffee and pour it into a mug along with the frothed milk and cherry syrup. Mix together and savor your warm, comforting drink!