The Cherry Vanilla Tea Latte is a vibrant and comforting drink that brings together the tart sweetness of cherries, the smooth warmth of vanilla, and the bold richness of tea. Whether served steaming hot or refreshingly iced, this delightful beverage is a perfect fusion of fruit and cream—ideal for cozy mornings or stylish afternoon sipping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This tea latte is both indulgent and customizable, offering the flexibility to enjoy it warm for comfort or cold for refreshment. It requires simple ingredients, takes just 15 minutes to prepare, and is a sophisticated alternative to standard coffee or tea drinks. With natural cherry juice, fragrant vanilla, and creamy milk, it’s a balanced, café-style treat you can make at home anytime.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup brewed tea (black, green, or herbal tea)
• 1/2 cup cherry juice (or fresh cherries, pitted and blended)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1–2 tsp honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup milk (or plant-based milk)
• Ice cubes (for iced version)
• Optional garnish: whipped cream, cherry, cherry syrup, or cinnamon

directions

1. Brew the Tea: Prepare 1 cup of your chosen tea according to its instructions. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Cherry Mixture:
   • If using cherry juice: Gently warm it in a saucepan.
   • If using fresh cherries: Blend into a puree and warm slightly to enhance flavor.
   • Stir in the vanilla extract and honey or sugar until dissolved.
3. Combine: Add the brewed tea to the cherry mixture and stir well.
   • For hot latte: Keep this mixture warm over low heat.
   • For iced latte: Let it cool completely.
4. Froth the Milk:
   • Heat the milk (for hot) or chill it (for iced).
   • Froth using a handheld frother, whisk, or frothing machine until creamy.
5. Assemble the Latte:
   • For hot: Pour the cherry-tea blend into a mug, then gently top with the frothed milk.
   • For iced: Fill a glass with ice, pour in the cherry-tea mixture, then add chilled frothed milk on top.
6. Garnish and Serve: Add whipped cream, a cherry, or a drizzle of cherry syrup or a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Yield: 1 serving
Total Time: 15 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes

Variations

• Cherry Almond Latte: Use almond extract instead of vanilla and almond milk for a nutty twist.
• Caffeine-free version: Use an herbal tea base such as hibiscus or rooibos.
• Chocolate cherry latte: Stir in 1 tsp of cocoa powder for a mocha-style cherry treat.
• Spiced version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cherry mixture while warming.
• Sugar-free: Use stevia, monk fruit, or another sugar substitute to keep it low in sugar.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Best enjoyed fresh. However, the cherry-tea mixture can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Gently warm the mixture in a saucepan for the hot version. Do not reheat the milk once frothed—froth fresh before serving.

FAQs

What kind of tea works best for this latte?

Black tea is ideal for a bold flavor, while green tea gives a lighter touch. Herbal teas like hibiscus or rooibos pair beautifully with cherry as well.

Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, thaw and blend them into a puree before using. You may need to strain the mixture for a smoother texture.

Do I need a frother to make the milk creamy?

A frother is helpful, but you can also vigorously whisk heated milk or shake it in a tightly sealed jar.

Can I make this drink vegan?

Yes, use plant-based milk (like oat, almond, or coconut) and a vegan sweetener like maple syrup or agave.

Can I serve this drink cold?

Absolutely. The iced version is just as delicious and perfect for warmer weather.

Is it necessary to sweeten the latte?

Not at all. Adjust the sweetener based on your preference or omit entirely if your cherry juice is sweet enough.

What is the best cherry juice to use?

Look for 100% tart cherry juice for a bold, tangy flavor, or use sweet cherry juice if preferred.

How do I make this more indulgent?

Add whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or cherry syrup drizzle for a dessert-like finish.

Can I add espresso or coffee?

Yes, for a caffeinated twist, add a shot of espresso to turn it into a cherry vanilla tea latte macchiato.

What milk works best for frothing?

Whole milk froths best, but barista-style oat or almond milk also work well for dairy-free options.

Conclusion

The Cherry Vanilla Tea Latte is a unique and flavorful drink that feels indulgent yet is easy to make at home. Whether you’re craving something cozy and warm or light and chilled, this fruity, creamy beverage is an elegant addition to your tea collection. Simple to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s a perfect sip for any season.

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