As I stood by the window, sipping my morning coffee, I couldn’t help but feel the summer sun beckoning me to embrace its warmth and vibrancy. That’s when the idea for a Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte struck me with the enthusiasm of a cool breeze on a hot day. This refreshing homemade coffee drink combines the bold richness of espresso with the sweet-tart personality of cherry syrup, all seamlessly blended with creamy milk and a touch of vanilla. Not only is it an easy recipe to whip up in a hurry, but it’s also highly customizable for dietary needs, making it the perfect afternoon pick-me-up or brunch companion. Curious about how you can transform your regular coffee into a gourmet delight? Let’s dive into this delightful summer recipe!

Why is this Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte special?

Refreshing, this Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte captures the essence of summer in every sip. Customizable for all preferences, whether you need a dairy-free or sugar-free version, this drink caters to everyone at your brunch table. Quick to prepare, you can whip it up in just minutes—perfect for those busy mornings. Visually stunning, each layered ingredient makes for a drink that’s as pretty as it is delicious. Plus, it’s much more affordable than your favorite coffeehouse version, save your pennies for those delightful crumpets or pastries to pair!

Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte Ingredients

For the Iced Latte

Espresso – The heart of the drink; don’t forget, it can be substituted with double-strength brewed coffee if you’re in a pinch.
Chunky Cherry Preserves – Provides that essential sweet-tart flavor; opt for chunky over smooth for delightful texture, or muddle fresh cherries for an extra refreshment boost.
Milk – Creaminess at its finest; whole, almond, oat, or coconut milk work beautifully depending on your dietary needs.
Vanilla Extract – Adds depth and a hint of sweetness; this little ingredient elevates the entire drink.
Ice – The more, the merrier; generous ice ensures your drink stays icy cold and beautifully layered.
Whipped Cream (optional) – A luscious topper that enhances both flavor and presentation; it’s not just for aesthetics, it’s for flavor joy!

Embrace this Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte to spark feelings of summertime happiness while enjoying a delightful blend of flavors!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte

Step 1: Brew the Coffee
Begin by brewing a strong cup of espresso, using about 2 ounces. If you don’t have an espresso maker, double-strength brewed coffee works beautifully as a substitute. Once brewed, let it cool for about 5–10 minutes until it’s no longer hot, preventing ice from melting too quickly.

Step 2: Prepare the Glass
Select a tall glass and add 2-3 tablespoons of chunky cherry preserves in the bottom. This creates a deliciously sweet base for your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte. Use a spoon to spread the preserves evenly, ensuring they are ready to mingle with the coffee.

Step 3: Combine Espresso and Preserves
Gently pour the cooled espresso over the cherry preserves in the glass. Stir slowly with a long spoon to combine them, watching the vibrant colors swirl together—this contrast is not only visually appealing but ensures an even distribution of flavor throughout your drink.

Step 4: Add the Ice
Fill the glass generously with ice cubes, packing them in to keep your drink refreshingly cold. Aim for a full glass, allowing the ice to create a beautiful layered effect with the coffee and preserves underneath, giving your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte that café-style look.

Step 5: Incorporate the Milk
Pour your choice of milk over the ice, filling the glass to your desired level—about 4 ounces is perfect for balance. Whether you choose whole, almond, or oat milk, you should see it blend beautifully with the rich espresso mixture as it cascades down, creating an inviting visual.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
For a delightful finish, top your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte with a generous dollop of whipped cream. If you’d like, drizzle a little extra cherry syrup over the cream or garnish with a fresh cherry for a lovely presentation that enhances both flavor and look.

Expert Tips for the Best Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte

Cool Your Coffee: Allow your espresso to cool slightly before pouring it over the ice to prevent unwanted dilution. This ensures a richer flavor in your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte.
Muddle Fresh Cherries: For an extra burst of natural flavor, consider muddling fresh cherries instead of using preserves. This will elevate your drink with fresh fruitiness.
Adjust the Sweetness: Taste your cherry preserves before adding. They can vary in sweetness! Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your preference, making your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte perfectly tailored.
Layering Matters: Pour the coffee slowly over the preserves to create beautiful layers. Stirring too aggressively can mix the ingredients too soon and alter the delightful presentation.
Experiment with Milk: Don’t shy away from trying different milk types! Almond, coconut, or oat milk not only cater to dietary needs but also bring unique flavors to your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte experience.

What to Serve with Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte

Imagine a sunny afternoon where vibrant flavors awaken your taste buds and elevate your coffee ritual to new heights.

Flaky Croissants: These buttery delights add a warm, flaky texture that pairs perfectly with the cold, creamy iced latte.
Zesty Lemon Scones: Their tartness complements the sweet-tart cherry, creating a delightful balance with each sip of your latte.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: Soft and chewy, these classic cookies contrast beautifully with the chill of your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte—a sweet treat everyone loves.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Juicy berries and citrus add a refreshing and healthy side, brightening your drink’s flavor while keeping it summer-themed.
Muffins: Opt for berry or banana muffins to enhance the coffee experience. Their moist texture pairs beautifully with the rich flavors.
Sparkling Water: A fizzy glass of sparkling water can cleanse the palate between sips, making each delightful taste of your iced latte pop.
Coconut Macaroons: Their chewy texture and mild sweetness bring an extra tropical note, harmonizing with the vanilla and cherry flavors.
Mini Cheesecakes: Creamy and decadent, these are the perfect indulgent pairing, elevating your afternoon coffee experience to dessert status.

Storage Tips for Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte

Fridge: Store any leftover Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte components, such as mixed cherry syrup and coffee, in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the espresso in ice cube trays. These coffee cubes can be used in future iced lattes without diluting the flavor.

Reheating: If you prefer your coffee warm, reheat the chilled espresso gently on the stove or in the microwave before combining with the cherry preserves.

Preparation Ahead: Mix the cherry syrup and brewed coffee ahead of time and store in the fridge for effortless preparation when you’re ready to enjoy your refreshing iced latte!

Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize this refreshing Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte for your taste buds or dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Use almond, oat, or coconut milk instead of regular milk for a friendly, plant-based option. Each variety has its unique flavor profile to complement the cherry nicely.
Sugar-Free: Swap cherry preserves for sugar-free cherry syrup, ensuring you still enjoy that delightful flavor without the extra sugar. This option allows you to savor a guilt-free treat.
Fruity Twist: Try substituting cherry preserves with blueberry preserves for a bright height of flavor that offers a lovely berry burst. It’s a delicious exercise in flavor creativity!
Fresh Cherries: Muddle fresh cherries instead of using preserves for a lighter, fresher take. This gives the drink a nice texture and elevates the taste of the espresso.
Chocolatey Delight: Drizzle some chocolate syrup over your whipped cream topping for a rich chocolate cherry experience. It’s an indulgent way to create a café-style treat at home.
Add Spice: Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the whipped cream for a warm spice kick. These spices will complement the cherry’s sweetness beautifully.
Frappé Style: Blend all ingredients with ice for a frappé version of your Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte. It’s like sipping on a cherry-flavored iced coffee slushy on a hot day!
Iced Coffee Alternative: If you’re missing that coffeehouse feel, use cold brew coffee instead of espresso. This creates a smoother, slightly less acidic version that pairs wonderfully with the cherry flavor.

Discover your favorite variations and experiment with your personal twist on this fabulous recipe. You can also consider pairing it with delightful treats like a slice of my Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake for a truly festive brunch!

Make Ahead Options

These Cherry Vanilla Iced Lattes are a game-changer for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the coffee and cherry preserves up to 3 days in advance. Simply brew your espresso or strong coffee, let it cool, and mix it with the cherry preserves in a sealed container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious homemade drink, just pour the prepared mixture over ice, add milk, and top with whipped cream. This way, you’ll enjoy a refreshing latte that’s just as delicious as if you made it fresh! Don’t forget to give it a little stir to re-integrate the flavors before serving!

Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte Recipe FAQs

What type of espresso should I use for my Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte?
For a rich flavor, I recommend using freshly brewed espresso. If you don’t have an espresso machine, double-strength brewed coffee works just as well. Aim for about 2 ounces of espresso to create that delightful coffee base!

How should I store my leftover ingredients?
Any leftover components, like mixed cherry syrup and coffee, can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember to shake or stir well before serving to re-create that refreshing flavor combo!

Can I freeze my Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte?
Absolutely! Freeze brewed espresso in ice cube trays; these coffee cubes can be added to your future iced lattes without watering them down. This way, you can enjoy that delicious iced coffee flavor any time!

What if my cherry preserves are too sweet?
If your cherry preserves are on the sweeter side, no worries! Consider adding a touch more espresso or using less of the preserves in your glass to balance out the sweetness. You can also mix in a bit of unsweetened almond milk for a delightful contrast!

Is this recipe safe for pets?
While the Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte is delightful for human consumption, it’s best to keep it away from pets. Ingredients like coffee and certain sweeteners can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always ensure pet treats are safe and appropriate for them!

Can I make this recipe vegan?
Very much so! Simply swap regular milk for any plant-based milk such as almond, oat, or coconut milk. Additionally, ensure that your cherry preserves are free from gelatin or other animal products for a fully vegan Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte experience!