Chef's Essential Tips

Espresso Quality: Always use fresh, high-quality beans to make your espresso. The flavor of the espresso significantly impacts the overall taste of your latte.
Cherry Syrup Storage: Store leftover cherry syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It’s perfect for drizzling over pancakes or yogurt.
Milk Alternatives: Feel free to experiment with different types of milk, such as oat or coconut for a dairy-free version. Each adds its unique flavor profile!
Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of sugar in the cherry syrup according to your taste preference. You can also use honey or maple syrup as healthier alternatives.
Chill Your Glasses: For an extra refreshing drink, chill your glasses in the freezer for 15 minutes before preparing your iced latte.
Layering: For the best presentation, pour the milk slowly over the back of a spoon to create distinct layers between the espresso and milk.

Essential Ingredients Selection

Espresso: The cornerstone of any latte, espresso delivers a rich and bold flavor that balances perfectly with sweet and creamy elements.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the aromatic profile of the latte, adding warmth and sweetness that complements cherry.
Cherries: Fresh or frozen, they provide a sweet yet tangy flavor that elevates the iced latte to something special, offering a taste of summer.
Granulated Sugar: Key for creating the cherry syrup, it helps to balance the tartness of cherries and builds a deliciously sweet base.
Water: Essential for dissolving sugar and extracting the flavors from the cherries, making the syrup smooth and pourable.
Milk: Adds creaminess and body to the iced latte, smoothing the bold flavors of espresso and letting the cherry notes shine.
Ice Cubes: Crucial for serving the drink cold, they ensure a refreshing experience, especially during warm weather.
Whipped Cream: A decadent topping that enhances the creamy texture and adds a sense of indulgence to the drink.
Chocolate Shavings: An optional garnish that adds visual appeal and a hint of rich flavor, making the drink feel more luxurious.
Fresh Cherries: Used as a garnish, they not only beautify the drink but also reinforce the main flavor profile, making the drink inviting.

Creating Your Masterpiece

Blending for Smoothness:

For a super creamy version, blend the espresso, milk, and cherry syrup together before pouring it over ice. This method ensures that all flavors are well combined, resulting in a smoother texture.

Adjusting Sweetness:

Taste your cherry syrup and latte mix before serving. If you prefer a sweeter drink, add more sugar or sweeteners to achieve your desired level without overpowering the cherry flavor.

Experimenting with Flavors:

Feel free to customize your recipe by adding spices like cinnamon or using flavored syrups. These small tweaks can give your latte a unique twist and keep it exciting for different seasons.

Storing Cherry Syrup:

For any leftover cherry syrup, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This syrup can be drizzled over desserts or used in other beverages, showcasing versatility and reducing waste.

Serving & Enjoying:

Serve your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte immediately after preparing for the best experience. The combination of flavors will be at their peak, providing a refreshing treat that is perfect for various occasions, from brunches to afternoon relaxations.

Garnishing:

Use a fresh cherry and chocolate shavings to enhance the visual appeal of your iced latte. This not only makes the drink more inviting but also adds an extra layer of flavor that perfectly complements the main ingredients.

Creating Whipped Cream:

When whipping cream, start with cold heavy cream and add sugar and vanilla before whisking. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer at medium speed until soft peaks form. This adds a cloud-like texture that elevates your iced latte.

Assembling the Latte:

Layer your glass with ice followed by espresso, then milk. This layering technique not only looks appealing but also maintains the drinks' individual flavors until mixed by drinking. Pour slowly for the best presentation.

Making Cherry Syrup:

Incorporate chopped cherries with sugar and water in a saucepan. Allow the mixture to simmer, ensuring the sugar dissolves and cherries break down. Strain the syrup to achieve a smooth consistency, which is key for easy pouring and enhanced flavor in your latte.

Brewing Espresso:

Utilize a high-quality espresso machine for the best results. Start with freshly ground coffee beans, tamp them evenly, and extract the espresso for about 25-30 seconds. This process creates a rich and full-bodied shot, essential for a flavorful latte.

The Complete Guide to Mastering Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte

Blending for Smoothness:

For a super creamy version, blend the espresso, milk, and cherry syrup together before pouring it over ice. This method ensures that all flavors are well combined, resulting in a smoother texture.

Adjusting Sweetness:

Taste your cherry syrup and latte mix before serving. If you prefer a sweeter drink, add more sugar or sweeteners to achieve your desired level without overpowering the cherry flavor.

Experimenting with Flavors:

Feel free to customize your recipe by adding spices like cinnamon or using flavored syrups. These small tweaks can give your latte a unique twist and keep it exciting for different seasons.

Storing Cherry Syrup:

For any leftover cherry syrup, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This syrup can be drizzled over desserts or used in other beverages, showcasing versatility and reducing waste.

Serving & Enjoying:

Garnishing:

Creating Whipped Cream:

Assembling the Latte:

Making Cherry Syrup:

Brewing Espresso:

Master Your Recipe: Pro Tips for the Perfect Iced Latte

For a homemade version, whip heavy cream with a touch of sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

If you don’t have an espresso machine, strong brewed coffee can be used, but ensure it is brewed stronger than usual for similar flavor intensity.

Always serve this iced latte chilled to enjoy the refreshing flavors and textures fully.

For an extra twist, consider adding a splash of almond extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.

Deliciously Creamy Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte with Whipped Cream

Name: Deliciously Creamy Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte with Whipped Cream
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Espresso:; 4 shots of espresso (about 1 cup total), freshly brewed for the best flavor; 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract for a rich aroma and sweet undertone; For Cherry Syrup:; 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped to enhance natural sweetness; 1/4 cup granulated sugar to balance the tartness of the cherries; 1/4 cup water to help dissolve the sugar and create a syrupy consistency; For Assembly:; 1 cup milk of choice (whole, almond, or oat milk for creaminess); 1-2 cups ice cubes for a refreshing chill; Whipped cream for topping to add a luscious finish; Optional chocolate shavings for an elegant touch; Fresh cherries for garnish to boost visual appeal and freshness

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of summer with this Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte, a delightful fusion of rich espresso, sweet cherry syrup, and creamy vanilla. The smooth, luscious textures tantalize your taste buds while the bright cherry notes balance perfectly with the boldness of espresso. Enhanced by a dollop of whipped cream, this drink is your ideal companion for leisurely brunches, afternoon pick-me-ups, or cozy evenings on the patio. With every sip, feel the warmth of nostalgia and comfort, as this latte transports you to carefree moments shared with friends. Perfect for coffee lovers and cherry enthusiasts alike, this recipe not only satisfies your caffeine cravings but also sweetens your day. Treat yourself to this irresistible delight—your taste buds will thank you!

Prep Time

10 Minutes

Cook Time

5 Minutes

Total Time

15 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

For Espresso:

4 shots of espresso (about 1 cup total), freshly brewed for the best flavor

1 tablespoon of vanilla extract for a rich aroma and sweet undertone

For Cherry Syrup:

1/2 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped to enhance natural sweetness

1/4 cup granulated sugar to balance the tartness of the cherries

1/4 cup water to help dissolve the sugar and create a syrupy consistency

For Assembly:

1 cup milk of choice (whole, almond, or oat milk for creaminess)

1-2 cups ice cubes for a refreshing chill

Whipped cream for topping to add a luscious finish

Optional chocolate shavings for an elegant touch

Fresh cherries for garnish to boost visual appeal and freshness

Instructions

Step 1: Start by brewing your espresso. Use a high-quality coffee machine and brew 4 shots of espresso. Let it cool slightly while you prepare the cherry syrup.

Step 2: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped cherries, sugar, and water. Stir occasionally for about 5 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the cherries break down into a syrup.

Step 3: Once the cherry mixture is bubbly and slightly thickened, remove it from heat and strain it into a bowl to remove solids. This will leave you with a smooth cherry syrup.

Step 4: Fill two tall glasses with ice cubes, ensuring the glass is filled to your desired chill level.

Step 5: Pour the cooled espresso over the ice, filling each glass about halfway.

Step 6: Add the vanilla extract to the espresso in each glass, stirring gently to combine flavors.

Step 7: Next, pour in the milk of your choice, filling the glasses nearly to the top.

Step 8: Drizzle 2-3 tablespoons of the cherry syrup over each latte, allowing it to create a beautiful swirl for visual appeal.

Step 9: Top each drink with a generous dollop of whipped cream to enhance the creamy texture.

Step 10: Finish with optional chocolate shavings and a fresh cherry for garnish before serving, and enjoy your refreshing Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte!