Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Cherry Vanilla Latte is a delightful, creamy treat with a perfect balance of espresso bitterness, sweet cherry syrup, and smooth vanilla. The cherry syrup adds a surprising burst of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the rich espresso. Plus, the whipped cream and cherry on top make it an extra indulgent, eye-catching drink. It’s a quick and easy way to elevate your usual coffee routine, making it feel like a special occasion every time.
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk
- ½ cup brewed espresso
- 2 tablespoons cherry syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Maraschino cherries (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Brew the Espresso: Brew your espresso and pour it into a mug.
- Add Cherry Syrup: Stir the cherry syrup into the hot espresso until well combined.
- Steam the Milk: Steam the milk and vanilla extract together until warm and frothy. You can use a steam wand if you have one, or heat the milk on the stovetop and froth it with a hand frother.
- Pour and Mix: Pour the steamed milk over the espresso and cherry syrup mixture, gently stirring to combine.
- Top and Serve: Top with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry for the perfect finishing touch.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: 1 serving
- Total time: 5 minutes
- Prep time: 2 minutes
- Cook time: 3 minutes
Variations
- Strength of Cherry Flavor: Adjust the amount of cherry syrup based on your preference. Add more for a stronger cherry taste, or less for a more subtle flavor.
- Vanilla Bean Paste: For a richer vanilla flavor, swap vanilla extract for vanilla bean paste.
- Iced Version: To make this an iced drink, let the espresso and syrup cool, add ice to your glass, and then pour the milk over the ice. Skip the steamed milk and use cold milk instead.
Storage/Reheating
This recipe is best enjoyed immediately, but you can refrigerate any leftover steamed milk and espresso mixture for up to 24 hours. Simply reheat and top with fresh whipped cream and a cherry when ready to serve.
FAQs
1. Can I make this drink without espresso?
Yes! If you don’t have espresso, you can use strong brewed coffee instead. Adjust the amount depending on how strong you like your coffee.
2. Can I make the cherry syrup at home?
Absolutely! You can make your own cherry syrup by simmering fresh cherries with sugar and water until it thickens into a syrup.
3. Can I use a milk alternative?
Yes, you can use any milk alternative, such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk, for this recipe. Just keep in mind that it may slightly change the flavor and texture of the latte.
4. Can I skip the whipped cream and maraschino cherry?
Of course! The whipped cream and cherry are optional but add a fun touch. You can skip them if you prefer a lighter version or just want to focus on the coffee and cherry flavor.
5. Can I make this drink less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet drink, you can reduce the amount of cherry syrup or opt for a sugar-free version of the syrup.
Conclusion
This Cherry Vanilla Latte is a perfect way to enjoy a fun and flavorful coffee drink with just a few simple ingredients. The combination of rich espresso, sweet cherry syrup, and smooth vanilla creates a delightful experience in every sip. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing friends and family, this easy recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it today and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and creamy goodness!
Cherry Vanilla Latte: A Delicious & Easy Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful twist on the classic latte, combining rich espresso, sweet cherry syrup, and smooth vanilla for a fun and flavorful coffee treat.
Ingredients
2 cups milk
½ cup brewed espresso
2 tablespoons cherry syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped cream (optional)
Maraschino cherries (optional)
Instructions
- Brew the Espresso: Brew your espresso and pour it into a mug.
- Add Cherry Syrup: Stir the cherry syrup into the hot espresso until well combined.
- Steam the Milk: Steam the milk and vanilla extract together until warm and frothy. You can use a steam wand if you have one, or heat the milk on the stovetop and froth it with a hand frother.
- Pour and Mix: Pour the steamed milk over the espresso and cherry syrup mixture, gently stirring to combine.
- Top and Serve: Top with whipped cream and a maraschino cherry for the perfect finishing touch.
Notes
Strength of Cherry Flavor: Adjust the amount of cherry syrup based on your preference. Add more for a stronger cherry taste, or less for a more subtle flavor.
Vanilla Bean Paste: For a richer vanilla flavor, swap vanilla extract for vanilla bean paste.
Iced Version: To make this an iced drink, let the espresso and syrup cool, add ice to your glass, and then pour the milk over the ice. Skip the steamed milk and use cold milk instead.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Drink
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
