Viral Cherry Vanilla Latte (Print version)
Smooth cherry syrup and creamy vanilla combine with espresso for a delightful, easy beverage.
# What you'll need:
→ Cherry Syrup
01 - 2 tablespoons cherry preserves or cherry syrup
02 - 1 tablespoon water
03 - 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
→ Latte Base
04 - 1 shot espresso (1 fluid ounce) or 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee
05 - 3/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
06 - 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
07 - 1 teaspoon sugar or sweetener
→ Garnish
08 - Whipped cream
09 - Fresh or maraschino cherries
10 - Extra cherry syrup for drizzling
# How to make it:
01 - Combine cherry preserves, water, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth and syrupy, approximately 2 minutes. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve if a completely smooth texture is desired.
02 - Extract 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 by heating in a saucepan and whisking vigorously. Aim for hot, velvety foam with micro-bubbles.
04 - Add the prepared cherry syrup and vanilla extract to a large mug. Pour the hot espresso over the syrup mixture and stir thoroughly to combine flavors.
05 - Pour the steamed milk over the espresso-cherry base, using a spoon to hold back the foam. Gently spoon the foam atop the drink. Garnish with whipped cream, fresh cherry, and additional cherry syrup drizzle if desired.
# Expert suggestions:
01 -
- Its like having a fancy coffee shop drink without the fancy price tag or the wait in line
- The cherry vanilla combination creates this sophisticated fruity note that makes regular lattes feel boring
02 -
- Straining the cherry syrup through a fine mesh sieve takes literally ten seconds but transforms the texture from jammy to professional
- The temperature of your espresso and milk matters cold components kill the foam and make the drink separate
03 -
- Make a batch of cherry syrup on Sunday and keep it in the fridge for effortless lattes all week
- Warm your mug with hot water before building your drink it stays hot longer