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Oh, the Cherry Latte! Imagine the warm, comforting embrace of a latte-the creamy, steamed milk swirling into a bold shot of espresso-combined with the luscious, fruity sweetness of cherries. It’s like your favorite coffeehouse drink got a juicy upgrade! This drink isn’t just tasty; it’s an experience, a little celebration of flavor that brightens your day and warms your soul. Whether you’re a coffee lover looking for a fun twist or a cherry fanatic wanting to explore new ways to enjoy your favorite fruit, this Cherry Latte recipe has you covered.
What makes this latte special? It’s the harmonious blend of rich espresso, velvety milk, and that subtle yet distinct cherry flavor that adds a vibrant pop without overpowering the coffee. Plus, it’s a breeze to make at home with simple ingredients, no fancy gadgets needed, and it’s incredibly adaptable depending on your taste buds. Ready to become a Cherry Latte maestro? Let’s get started!
Contents
Here’s the lineup of what you’ll need to create this delicious drink-easy-to-find, mostly pantry staples, and a few fresh bits to bring it all together:
Fresh or frozen cherries (about 1/4 cup)
Fresh cherries are amazing if you have them, but frozen work perfectly fine too, especially out of season.
Strong, robust espresso is the base here, but if you don’t have an espresso machine, you can use very strong brewed coffee.
Whole milk gives you that classic creamy texture, but feel free to use almond, oat, soy, or any plant-based milk you love.
Adds extra cherry punch and sweetness-optional but highly recommended for that vibrant cherry flavor.
Depends on how sweet you like your latte. You can adjust or even skip if you’re into the natural cherry sweetness.
This little addition helps deepen the flavor complexity, making the cherry and coffee notes sing.
For that luxurious café feel on top.
If you want to make this a refreshing iced cherry latte instead of hot.
Alright, here’s where the magic happens! Follow along, and I’ll walk you through every step like a chatty barista guiding you behind the counter:
Because you deserve the best, here are some pro tips to make your Cherry Latte sing:
Too much cherry syrup can overpower the coffee, so start small and adjust to taste.
Tart cherries give a nice tangy brightness, while sweet cherries create a mellow, dessert-like vibe. Choose based on your mood!
If you don’t have a frother, shake hot milk vigorously in a jar with a lid or whisk it vigorously on the stove.
For an iced Cherry Latte, chill the cherry syrup, use cold milk, pour everything over ice, and skip the steaming.
Use plant-based milk and check your syrup or jam for any animal-derived ingredients.
Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for an aromatic twist.
Want to shake things up or tailor your Cherry Latte to fit different tastes? Here are some delicious spins on the classic:
Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder or chocolate syrup to the cherry mixture for a decadent mocha twist.
Infuse your cherry base with a cinnamon stick, a few cloves, or star anise while heating.
Add a splash of almond extract for a nutty, cozy flavor pairing.
Simply swap the espresso with decaf coffee or a rich black tea for a caffeine-free treat.
Use honey instead of sugar or syrup to sweeten for a natural floral note.
Replace espresso with matcha for an exciting fusion of flavors.
Making a Cherry Latte at home is like creating a little moment of joy – simple, fun, and totally customizable. It’s a drink that invites you to experiment, to savor, and to cozy up with a cup that feels like a hug. The best part? You get to adjust the sweetness, milkiness, and cherry intensity exactly how you like it, no waiting in line or paying a fortune. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bring a bit of seasonal fruit into your coffee routine.
I hope you’re inspired to grab some cherries next time you hit the grocery store and give this recipe a whirl. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
To make a basic cherry latte, you’ll need 1-2 shots of espresso or strong brewed coffee, 1/2 cup of milk (dairy or plant-based), 2-3 tablespoons of cherry syrup or cherry puree, and optional toppings like whipped cream and maraschino cherries.
Yes, you can use fresh cherries by pitting and blending them into a puree. Simmer the puree with a bit of sugar and water to create a homemade cherry syrup that blends well into the latte.
To make cherry syrup, combine 1 cup of pitted cherries (fresh or frozen), 1/2 cup of water, and 1/2 cup of sugar in a saucepan. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, then strain and cool. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Espresso is preferred for a bold flavor that balances the sweetness of the cherry. However, you can also use strong brewed coffee or cold brew concentrate for a milder version.
A cherry latte can be served either hot or iced. For a hot version, steam the milk and pour over espresso and cherry syrup. For an iced version, use cold milk and coffee over ice with cherry syrup stirred in.
Yes, you can use strongly brewed coffee, instant espresso, or even cold brew concentrate as a substitute for espresso if you don’t have an espresso machine.
Whole milk creates the creamiest texture, but almond, oat, or soy milk are great dairy-free alternatives. Oat milk is especially popular for its frothiness and subtle sweetness.
Absolutely. Use a sugar-free cherry syrup or make your own using a sugar substitute like stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol in your homemade cherry syrup.
You can froth milk using a milk frother, a French press, a whisk, or by shaking heated milk in a tightly sealed jar. Heat the milk to around 150°F (65°C) before frothing for best results.
Yes, to make a vegan cherry latte, use a plant-based milk like almond, oat, or soy, and ensure the cherry syrup or puree does not contain animal-derived ingredients such as honey.