Ingredients
Cherry Vanilla Syrup
- 10 oz frozen dark, sweet cherries
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Latte
- 1 cup milk of choice
- 3-4 tablespoons cherry vanilla syrup
- 2 shots espresso
- Ice, as needed
Instructions
- Make the Cherry Vanilla Syrup: Add the frozen cherries, sugar, water, and vanilla extract to a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a simmer over low heat and let it cook gently for 10-15 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and develop rich flavors.
- Cool and Strain Syrup: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the cherry syrup to cool completely. Once cooled, carefully strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a glass container or mason jar to remove cherry solids. Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
- Prepare the Latte Glass: Fill a 12 oz glass halfway with ice cubes. Add 3-4 tablespoons of the cherry vanilla syrup, depending on your desired sweetness and flavor intensity.
- Add Milk: Pour 1 cup of your preferred milk over the syrup and ice in the glass, creating a creamy base for the latte.
- Top with Espresso: Brew 2 shots of espresso and carefully pour them over the milk. The espresso floats on top, creating a beautiful layered iced latte.
Notes
- You can use any milk of choice including dairy, almond, oat, or soy milk according to preference or dietary needs.
- Adjust the amount of cherry vanilla syrup to taste for sweetness and fruitiness.
- The cherry vanilla syrup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, making it easy to prepare ahead.
- For a stronger coffee flavor, add an extra shot of espresso.
- Use dark sweet cherries for the best flavor, but fresh or thawed frozen cherries can be used as well.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American