If you’re a fan of iced coffee that bursts with vibrant flavors and a touch of sweetness, then you’re going to absolutely adore this Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte. Imagine the bright, juicy essence of cherries blending seamlessly with creamy vanilla and rich cold brew coffee, creating a refreshingly indulgent beverage that’s perfect for any time of day. This Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte isn’t just a treat for your taste buds; it’s like a little celebration in a glass, combining freshness, smoothness, and a hint of nostalgia all in one delightful drink.

Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte lies in its straightforward, thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, from the fresh cherries that offer a natural fruity zing to the cold brew’s smooth depth, and the creamy vanilla almond milk that ties everything together with luscious texture and aroma.

Cherries (2 cups, pitted): Use frozen or fresh cherries for a naturally sweet and tart foundation for your simple syrup.
Sugar or monk fruit (½ cup): Sweetens the syrup perfectly—choose monk fruit if you want a lower-calorie option.
Water (½ cup): Essential to create the syrup base and gently extract cherry flavor.
Cold brew coffee (½ cup) or 2 shots chilled espresso: Provides rich, robust coffee flavor as the backbone of your drink.
Vanilla almond milk (½ cup): Adds creamy, dairy-free smoothness with a subtle vanilla note.
Vanilla almond creamer (2 tbsp): Enhances the latte’s creaminess and deepens that irresistible vanilla aroma.
Homemade cherry simple syrup (2-3 tbsp): The star sweetener that infuses each sip with fresh cherry goodness and balancing sweetness.

How to Make Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte

Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Simple Syrup

Start by combining cherries, water, and your chosen sweetener in a pot over medium heat. As the mixture heats up, gently press the cherries to release their juices while stirring to dissolve the sugar or monk fruit. Keep an eye on it until the syrup thickens and you have a rich, flavorful base. Strain out the solids and let your syrup cool to keep the texture silky smooth for your latte.

Step 2: Brew Your Coffee

If you’re using cold brew, make sure it’s well chilled for that refreshing kick. For espresso lovers, prepare two shots and chill them in the fridge. The coffee is the heart of this drink, so using quality beans and properly brewed coffee is key to maximize flavor.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

In a tall glass filled with ice, pour your cold brew or chilled espresso first. Add the vanilla almond milk and creamer for that luscious texture. Then pour in the cherry simple syrup gradually, tasting as you go to find your perfect balance of sweet and tart. Stir everything to blend the vibrant cherry and smooth vanilla flavors throughout the coffee.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte is ready when it’s chilled, sweetly fragrant, and beautifully layered with color. Give it a little stir to mix the cherry syrup settled at the bottom, then sit back and sip your new favorite iced coffee delight.

How to Serve Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte

Garnishes

A few fresh cherries or a light dusting of cinnamon on top instantly elevate the visual charm of your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte. Adding a sprig of mint or a thin vanilla bean pod can also bring an extra touch of elegance and wonderful aroma that engages all the senses.

Side Dishes

This iced latte pairs beautifully with breakfast pastries like buttery croissants or almond biscotti. The subtle cherry and vanilla notes complement the mild sweetness of baked goods, making your coffee break feel indulgent and perfectly balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Think outside the typical glass by serving your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte in a mason jar or a sleek tumbler with a reusable straw for a trendy, eco-friendly touch. Layering the syrup, milk, and coffee carefully in a clear glass highlights the drink’s gorgeous color contrasts, making it as much a feast for the eyes as for the palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep leftover cherry simple syrup refrigerated in an airtight container for up to two weeks. This way, you’ll always have ready-made flavor to quickly whip up another Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte without starting from scratch.

Freezing

While freezing the syrup is possible, it’s best to store it chilled since freezing can alter the texture slightly. If you do freeze portions, thaw them gently in the fridge to preserve flavor and consistency.

Reheating

The cherry simple syrup can be warmed slightly if you prefer a warm drink or want to loosen the syrup before stirring into your latte. Just avoid boiling it again as that can change the flavor intensity.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen for the syrup?

Absolutely! Fresh cherries will work wonderfully and often bring a more vibrant flavor, but frozen cherries offer convenience and consistent taste year-round.

Is it okay to use regular milk instead of vanilla almond milk?

Yes, regular milk can be substituted if you prefer, though vanilla almond milk adds a lovely subtle nuttiness and keeps the drink dairy-free.

How sweet is the Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte?

The sweetness can be customized. Start with 2 tablespoons of cherry syrup and add more to suit your taste. The homemade syrup allows you full control over sugar levels.

Can I make this drink vegan?

Definitely! Using plant-based milk and creamer keeps the entire Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte vegan-friendly without sacrificing any creaminess or flavor.

What’s the best way to cold brew coffee at home?

The easiest method is to steep coarsely ground coffee in cold water for 12-24 hours, then strain. This produces smooth, low-acid coffee perfect for iced lattes.

Final Thoughts

Making a Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte at home is one of those simple pleasures that feels fancy but is totally achievable. Its vibrant cherry flavor combined with creamy vanilla and robust coffee will brighten your day and become your go-to refreshment for warm weather or anytime you want a cozy, flavorful treat. So gather those cherries and get ready to fall in love with this beautifully balanced iced latte that’s as fun to make as it is to sip!