Ingredients
Cherry Syrup
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cherries (pitted)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Chai Latte
- 1 cup chai tea concentrate
- 1 cup milk of choice (whole milk, oat milk, or almond milk)
- 2–3 tbsp cherry syrup (from above)
- 1 cup ice cubes
Cherry Cream Foam
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp cherry syrup
- 1 tbsp freeze-dried cherries (crushed)
Instructions
- Make Cherry Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the pitted cherries, water, and granulated sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cherries break down and the syrup thickens. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, then strain through a fine sieve to remove solids. Let the syrup cool completely.
- Prepare the Glass: Fill a tall glass with ice cubes. Drizzle about 1 tablespoon of the cooled cherry syrup around the inside of the glass, creating a pretty swirl effect.
- Mix Chai Latte: In a separate cup or pitcher, stir together the chai tea concentrate, your choice of milk, and 2 to 3 tablespoons of the cherry syrup. Taste and adjust the sweetness to your preference.
- Assemble Drink: Pour the chai mixture over the ice in the prepared glass, leaving some space at the top for the cream foam.
- Make Cherry Cream Foam: Combine the heavy cream and 1 tablespoon of cherry syrup in a milk frother or a jar with a lid. Froth using the frother or shake vigorously until the mixture is thick and fluffy.
- Finish and Serve: Gently spoon the cold cherry cream foam on top of the chai latte. Sprinkle the crushed freeze-dried cherries over the foam for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- If fresh cherries are not available, frozen cherries work equally well for the syrup.
- Adjust the sweetness of the syrup and chai mixture according to your taste preference.
- Use whole milk for a richer latte, or plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.
- The cherry cream foam can be prepared in advance but is best served fresh for optimal texture.
- Freeze-dried cherries add a lovely crunch and concentrated cherry flavor as garnish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian