Viral Cherry Vanilla Latte (Printable)
A smooth blend of cherry syrup, vanilla, and espresso creates a creamy, refreshing beverage.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Cherry Syrup
01 - 2 tablespoons cherry preserves or cherry syrup
02 - 1 tablespoon water
03 - 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
→ Latte Base
04 - 1 shot (1 fluid ounce) espresso or 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee
05 - 3/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
06 - 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
07 - 1 teaspoon sugar or sweetener (optional, to taste)
→ Garnish
08 - Whipped cream (optional)
09 - Fresh or maraschino cherries (optional)
10 - Extra cherry syrup for drizzling (optional)
# How to Prepare:
01 - Combine cherry preserves, water, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth and syrupy, approximately 2 minutes. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve if a completely smooth texture is preferred.
02 - Prepare one shot of fresh espresso using an espresso machine or brew 1/4 cup of strong, concentrated coffee using a coffee maker or French press.
03 - Heat the milk in a small saucepan until steaming hot, then use a milk frother or steam wand to create a velvety foam. Alternatively, shake vigorously in a sealed jar and microwave until hot.
04 - Add the prepared cherry syrup and vanilla extract to a large mug. Pour the hot espresso over the syrup mixture and stir thoroughly to incorporate all flavors.
05 - Pour the steamed milk over the espresso-cherry base, using a spoon to hold back the foam. Gently spoon the reserved foam on top of the beverage.
06 - Top with whipped cream if desired, drizzle with additional cherry syrup, and place a fresh or maraschino cherry on top. Serve immediately while hot.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- Tastes like a fancy coffee shop drink but costs about 50 cents to make
- The cherry vanilla combo hits different than your usual flavored latte
- Takes literally 10 minutes from pantry to mug
02 -
- Strain the cherry syrup through a fine mesh sieve if you want a completely smooth latte texture
- The syrup keeps in the fridge for about two weeks, so you can make multiple batches at once
- Cold milk and ice work if you want an iced version, but let the espresso cherry mixture cool first so the ice does not water it down
03 -
- Warm your mug with hot water before building the drink so everything stays piping hot
- Vanilla bean paste instead of extract creates those pretty little speckles throughout the latte