Ingredients

2 shots of freshly brewed espresso (about 2 ounces total) or 1/2 to 3/4 cup of very strong brewed coffee

Whole milk (for a creamy texture) or oat milk, almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk as alternatives

Cherry syrup made with real fruit juice or homemade cherry syrup (pitted fresh or frozen cherries, sugar, and water)

Vanilla syrup or 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract as a substitute

Ice (for iced latte)

Whipped cream (optional garnish)

Extra cherry syrup (optional garnish)

Fresh cherries (optional garnish)

Vanilla bean flecks (optional garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Brew the espresso or coffee. Prepare 2 shots of espresso using your espresso machine, or brew 1/2 to 3/4 cup of very strong coffee if espresso is unavailable.

Step 2: Prepare the glass. Pour 1.5 to 2 tablespoons of cherry syrup and 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of vanilla syrup into a 12-16 oz glass to create the flavor base.

Step 3: Add ice if making an iced latte. Fill the glass generously with ice cubes to chill the beverage.

Step 4: Add milk. Pour your choice of milk over the syrups and ice; use cold milk for iced lattes or steamed, frothed milk for hot lattes.

Step 5: Combine espresso and milk. Slowly pour the hot espresso or strong coffee over the milk layer to maintain the distinct layers and flavor balance.

Step 6: Mix the latte. Stir gently with a long spoon to blend the cherry, vanilla, coffee, and milk flavors evenly.

Step 7: Garnish and serve. Add optional whipped cream, a drizzle of extra cherry syrup, fresh cherries, or vanilla bean flecks to enhance presentation and taste.

Tips & Variations

Use homemade cherry syrup made by simmering pitted cherries with sugar and water for a fresh, natural flavor.

Try different milk alternatives like oat or almond milk to suit dietary preferences or add unique flavor notes.

For a stronger vanilla flavor, use vanilla bean paste instead of vanilla syrup or extract.

Adjust the amount of cherry and vanilla syrup to your taste for a sweeter or subtler latte.

Storage

Prepare fresh for the best flavor and texture. If you must store, keep the brewed espresso and syrups separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Milk should be stored as usual. Once combined, the latte is best enjoyed immediately as separation and flavor changes may occur. If stored, gently stir before reheating or serving cold.

FAQs

Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of espresso?

Yes, strong brewed coffee works well as a substitute for espresso and will still create a delicious cherry vanilla latte.

How can I make this latte vegan?

Simply use a plant-based milk alternative like oat, almond, soy, or coconut milk, and check that your syrups do not contain any animal products. This will keep the latte fully vegan without compromising flavor.