Viral Cherry Vanilla Latte (Printable version)

A creamy blend of cherry syrup, vanilla, espresso, and steamed milk for a delightful beverage.

# List of ingredients:

→ Cherry Syrup

01 - 2 tbsp cherry preserves or cherry syrup
02 - 1 tbsp water
03 - 1/2 tsp lemon juice, for brightness

→ Latte Base

04 - 1 shot espresso or 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee
05 - 3/4 cup milk, dairy or plant-based
06 - 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
07 - 1 tsp sugar or sweetener, to taste

→ Garnish

08 - Whipped cream, optional
09 - Fresh or maraschino cherries
10 - Extra cherry syrup for drizzling

# Directions:

01 - Combine cherry preserves, water, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Heat over low heat, stirring continuously until smooth and syrupy, approximately 2 minutes. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve for a smoother texture if desired.
02 - Prepare one shot of espresso using an espresso machine or brew 1/4 cup of strong coffee using your preferred method. Keep hot for assembly.
03 - Heat and froth the milk using a steam wand, milk frother, or stovetop method until hot and foamy with microfoam consistency.
04 - Add the prepared cherry syrup and vanilla extract to a large mug. Pour the hot espresso over the flavorings and stir thoroughly to combine.
05 - Pour the steamed milk over the espresso-cherry mixture, using a spoon to hold back the foam. Once the milk is added, spoon the reserved foam on top of the beverage.
06 - Top with whipped cream if desired, drizzle with additional cherry syrup, and garnish with a fresh or maraschino cherry. Serve immediately while hot.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The cherry vanilla combo hits that perfect sweet spot between nostalgic ice cream shop vibes and grown up coffee sophistication
  • It comes together in under 10 minutes but tastes like something you would wait in line for 20 minutes at a trendy cafe
  • You can make it your own with whatever milk you have on hand and adjust the sweetness until it is exactly right
02 -
  • Straining the cherry syrup through a fine mesh sieve makes all the difference if you cannot stand fruit pulp in your drinks
  • The lemon juice is not just for brightness, it actually cuts through the sweetness so the drink does not become cloying
03 -
  • Warm your mug with hot water before building the latte so your drink stays hotter longer
  • Double batch the cherry syrup and keep it in the fridge for instant latte cravings throughout the week

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