On a sweltering summer morning, I stumbled upon a refreshing culinary gem that transformed my coffee routine—the Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte. This delightful twist on a classic latte combines rich espresso with vibrant cherry preserves, creating a drink that’s both energizing and indulgent. What’s even better? This homemade iced latte is not only incredibly easy to whip up but also offers endless customization options to suit your taste buds. Whether you’re in the mood for a dairy-free version or want to experiment with a selection of fruit preserves, this recipe allows you to enjoy a café-style treat without leaving your kitchen. So, are you ready to awaken your senses with this sweet, velvety concoction that’s perfect for brunch or a midday pick-me-up? Let’s dive in!

Why is this iced latte a must-try?

Refreshing Twist: This Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte brings a unique flavor twist that sets it apart from typical iced coffees, making each sip an exciting experience.

Customization Galore: Easily adapt this recipe to fit your dietary needs, whether you prefer a dairy-free latte or want to explore with different fruit preserves.

Simple Steps: With just a few uncomplicated steps, you can create a cafe-style beverage right at home without any fuss, perfect for a quick morning treat.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether for brunch gatherings or casual afternoon indulgence, this latte is sure to impress family and friends with its vibrant colors and luxurious flavors.

Healthy Edge: Enjoy a guilt-free pleasure, as the cherries bring a dose of antioxidants, making this drink not just tasty but also beneficial.

Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte Ingredients

For the Espresso
Espresso – Provides the bold coffee flavor; substitute with double-strength brewed coffee if you don’t have espresso on hand.
For the Cherry Layer
Cherry Preserves – Adds sweetness and a burst of fruity flavor; opt for chunky preserves or fresh cherries for the best taste.
For the Milk
Milk – Creates a creamy texture; you can use whole, oat, almond, or coconut milk for diverse flavor options.
For Flavor
Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and aromatic notes; don’t skip this essential ingredient for a well-rounded flavor.
For Chilling
Ice – Essential for keeping the drink refreshingly cool; use a generous amount to maintain the chill.
Optional Topping
Whipped Cream – Ideal for a coffeehouse finish; while it’s optional, it’s highly recommended for added richness.

Now that you have all the elements ready, let’s get mixing and enjoy your refreshing Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte

Step 1: Brew the Espresso
Start by brewing a strong espresso using your espresso machine. Aim for 1-2 shots, which usually takes around 25-30 seconds. If you don’t have an espresso maker, you can make double-strength brewed coffee instead. Allow the espresso to cool slightly at room temperature while preparing the next steps to prevent it from melting the ice right away.

Step 2: Prepare the Glass
Grab a tall glass and add a generous spoonful of cherry preserves at the bottom. Aim for sweet and chunky preserves to create an irresistible fruity base. This step is essential for achieving that delicious blend of flavors in your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte. You can use a spoon to spread the preserves across the bottom for an even layer.

Step 3: Combine Espresso and Cherry
Once the espresso has cooled slightly, pour it over the cherry preserves in the glass. Gently stir the mixture with a spoon to incorporate the cherry flavor into the espresso. This creates a beautifully swirled effect, giving you the delightful cherry undertones essential to this Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte.

Step 4: Add Ice
Fill the glass with ice cubes, leaving some space at the top. Make sure to use plenty of ice to keep your latte refreshingly chilled as you move on to the next step. The visual cue here is the ice clinking against the glass, implying a perfect balance between coffee and chill.

Step 5: Pour in Milk
Pour your choice of milk over the ice, allowing it to mix naturally with the espresso and cherry blend. Adjust the amount of milk according to your preference for creaminess. This step will transform the mixture into a creamy and inviting Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte, perfect for those hot summer days.

Step 6: Add Vanilla Extract
Drizzle in a splash of vanilla extract to enhance the latte’s sweetness and fragrance. Stir the drink gently to combine all the flavors. You’ll notice the inviting aroma of vanilla mingling with the cherry and coffee, making this drink not just a treat for the taste buds but also for the senses.

Step 7: Garnish if Desired
For an extra indulgent touch, top your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte with whipped cream, allowing it to create a luscious peak. Optionally, drizzle additional cherry syrup over the whipped cream and add a cherry on top for visual appeal. This final step transforms your iced latte into a café-style masterpiece, ready to impress!

Make Ahead Options

These Cherry Vanilla Iced Lattes are perfect for those busy mornings when you need a refreshing pick-me-up! You can prepare the cherry-vanilla syrup and brewed espresso up to 3 days in advance. Just mix the cherry preserves and espresso together, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To serve, pour the chilled mixture over ice, add your choice of milk, and a splash of vanilla extract for that extra flavor boost. Remember to stir well to maintain that delightful blend of cherry and coffee. This way, you’ll enjoy a cafe-quality iced latte with minimal effort, allowing you to savor each sip while soaking up the summer sun!

How to Store and Freeze Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte

Fridge: Store any leftover Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Give it a good stir before serving to reintegrate the flavors.

Freezer: If you’d like to freeze it, pour the latte into ice cube trays and freeze. These coffee cubes can be blended later for a refreshing slushy drink or added to your next iced coffee.

Reheating: If you’ve made a batch you want to warm up, gently heat it on the stove over low heat while stirring. Avoid boiling to preserve the flavors.

Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the espresso and cherry preserves ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Mix with ice and milk when ready to enjoy.

Expert Tips for Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte

Cooling Coffee: Let your brewed coffee cool slightly before adding ice to prevent dilution. This ensures your iced latte maintains its rich flavor.
Mixing Preserves: Stir the cherry preserves thoroughly with the espresso to avoid clumps. This will give you an even cherry flavor throughout your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte.
Milk Choices: Experiment with various milk options, like almond or coconut, to find your preferred flavor. Each milk adds a unique twist to the overall taste.
Garnishing: Elevate your drink by topping it with whipped cream and a cherry. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a luxurious creamy layer.
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare your cherry-vanilla syrup and brewed coffee in advance, storing them in the fridge for up to two days. Just mix with ice and milk when ready to serve.

What to Serve with Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte

Brighten your brunch table with delightful pairings that elevate your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte experience.

Flaky Croissants: Perfectly buttery and flaky, croissants are light enough to let the rich flavors of your iced latte shine through.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of your drink, making for a refreshing and nutritious complement.
Savory Scones: Opt for cheese or herb scones for an inviting contrast to the sweet cherry notes in your latte, offering a delightful textural difference.
Chocolate Biscotti: The crunch and slight bitterness of chocolate biscotti beautifully contrast the drink’s sweetness, crafting a perfect dunking companion.
Almond Cake: A slice of almond cake adds structural richness, harmonizing flavors with the nutty undertones of the milk used in the latte.
Iced Herbal Tea: Cool, refreshing herbal tea offers a soothing counterpoint to the espresso’s kick, making this an excellent option for warm weather.
Light Yogurt Parfait: Layered with fresh berries and granola, this parfait adds a creamy, crunchy texture that’s satisfying without being overly heavy.
Sparkling Lemonade: Effervescent and zesty, a glass of sparkling lemonade cleanses the palate, providing a refreshingly bright alternative to iced coffee.

Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte Variations

Feel free to play around with these fun twists and swaps to make your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte uniquely yours!

Dairy-Free: Use almond, oat, or coconut milk to create a creamy dairy-free version that’s equally delicious.
Sugar-Free: Opt for unsweetened cherry preserves or a sugar-free option to enjoy a lower-calorie treat without sacrificing flavor.
Flavor Boost: Substitute cherry preserves with raspberry or blueberry preserves for a fruity twist—each brings its unique charm!
Iced Coffee Punch: Add a splash of cold brew coffee to intensify your latte’s coffee flavor, turning it into a refreshing brew with a kick.
Sweetener Swap: Use honey or maple syrup instead of cherry preserves for a simple sweetener that brightens your drink beautifully.
Frozen Delight: Blend all the ingredients with ice for a frappé version—a frosty treat that’s perfect for hot summer days!
Gourmet Touch: Infuse the milk with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg before adding to your latte for a cozy, spicy flavor that counters the sweetness.
Adult Version: Want to take it up a notch? Add a splash of your favorite liqueur, like amaretto or vanilla vodka, for a delightful adult treat.

Whichever variation you choose, these tips ensure your latte will always delight. For a great pairing, consider enjoying your coffee with some homemade pastries for an elevated brunch! Explore how to customize this recipe and make it your own—your taste buds will thank you!

Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best cherries for my iced latte?
Absolutely! When choosing cherries for your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte, look for fresh cherries that are plump and vibrant in color. Avoid any that have dark spots or are overly soft. If using cherry preserves, opt for chunky varieties that contain real fruit pieces for added texture and flavor.

What’s the best way to store leftover Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte?
You can store any leftover Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the rest, give it a good stir to reintegrate the flavors before serving, and feel free to add a few fresh ice cubes.

Can I freeze my Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte, pour it into ice cube trays and place them in the freezer. Once frozen, these coffee cubes can be blended later for a refreshing slushy treat or added to future iced coffees for a delicious twist. Alternatively, you can freeze the espresso and cherry mixture separately and blend it when you’re ready.

What should I do if my iced latte turns out too sweet or too strong?
Very! If your latte is too sweet, you can balance it by adding a little more milk or ice to dilute the sweetness. If it’s too strong, a splash of vanilla extract or a drizzle of extra cherry preserves can help mellow the flavor. You may also enjoy adding more chilled milk or even a dash of flavored liqueur for an adult take!

Are cherry preserves safe for pets?
It’s important to avoid giving any cherry preserves to pets, as cherries can be toxic to them in certain forms. Always keep unprocessed, fresh fruits and anything containing preservatives away from your furry companions. Stick to safe treats specifically made for them to keep your pets healthy and happy!

Can I make a dairy-free version of this iced latte?
Absolutely! To make a dairy-free Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte, simply switch out regular milk for your favorite alternative, such as almond, oat, or coconut milk. This not only keeps it dairy-free but also adds a unique flavor twist to your latte, so feel free to experiment and find your perfect combo!