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 by pouring 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: If making an iced latte, fill the glass generously with ice cubes to chill the beverage.

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

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

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

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

Tips & Variations

For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with oat, almond, soy, or coconut milk to suit your preference.

If you don’t have cherry syrup, make your own by simmering pitted cherries with sugar and water until thickened, then strain.

Use vanilla extract instead of syrup for a less sweet, more natural vanilla flavor.

To achieve a layered look, pour the espresso slowly over the milk instead of mixing immediately.

Add a splash of sparkling water for a fizzy cherry vanilla coffee version.

Storage

Prepare the cherry syrup in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The assembled latte is best enjoyed fresh, but you can refrigerate any leftover iced latte for up to 24 hours. Reheat hot lattes gently on the stove or microwave, stirring well before drinking.

FAQs

Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso?

Yes, if you don’t have an espresso machine, use 1/2 to 3/4 cup of very strong brewed coffee to get a similar rich flavor.

Is there a vegan option for this latte?

Absolutely. Just swap whole milk with your preferred plant-based milk such as oat, almond, soy, or coconut milk, and ensure your whipped cream is dairy-free if using.