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This eye-catching cherry vanilla iced latte mixes strong coffee with sweet fruity notes, making a drink you'd think came from your favorite café – but it's cheaper and better for you than anything you'd buy.
I've tweaked this drink over many summer breakfasts until I found just the right mix of treat-yourself goodness and healthier choices.
Key Ingredients
- Cherries: Go with fresh or frozen dark sweet ones for the richest color and taste
- Coffee: Cold brew gives you the most mellow flavor, but cooled espresso works too
- Almond Milk: The vanilla type adds another layer of flavor
- Sweetener: Monk fruit keeps it sugar-free but still sweet enough
- Ice: Bigger cubes won't water down your drink as fast
Step-By-Step Directions
- Whip Up Cherry Syrup:
- Mix pitted cherries with sweetener and water in a pot. Let it bubble gently, mashing cherries against the sides until the mix thickens enough to coat your spoon, around 10 minutes. Pour through a fine strainer.
- Nail Your Cold Brew:
- Mix coffee and water at a 1:4 ratio for a strong base. Let it sit in your fridge for 12-24 hours. Run it through paper coffee filters twice to get it crystal clear.
- Put It All Together:
- Build in layers for the best look: syrup goes in first, then ice, next comes the foamy milk mix. Pour coffee in last to create pretty swirls.
- Get Fluffy Milk:
- Mix cold milk with creamer. Froth until it's twice as big. Pour it over ice right away for the best texture.
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That homemade cherry syrup really makes this drink something special. We love using dark cherries from nearby farms when they're in season.
Keeping It Cool
Make sure everything's cold before mixing. Stick your glass in the freezer first to keep your drink cold longer.
Picking Your Cherries
Look for dark, firm fruit. Frozen ones are often cheaper and work just as well.
Prep In Advance
Get your syrup and cold brew ready ahead of time. Keep them apart until you're ready to drink.
Keeping It Fresh
Store syrup in something glass. Your cold brew will stay good for 7-10 days in the fridge.
How To Serve
Bring extra syrup to the table. Try adding some coconut whipped cream on top for a treat.
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After trying tons of versions, I've found this mix hits just right between coffee kick and fruity sweetness while still using ingredients that aren't bad for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long will the syrup keep?
- Store cherry syrup for up to 2 weeks in the fridge in an airtight jar.
- → Can almond milk be swapped out?
- Totally—use any milk or non-dairy option you like!
- → Is it okay to use regular coffee?
- Absolutely! Brew some strong coffee, chill it, and you're good to go.
- → Can this be sugar-free?
- Yes! Swap in monk fruit or your favorite alternative sweetener.
- → Do I need a frother to make it?
- Nope! Frothing is optional but does give it a fancy finish.