Viral Cherry Vanilla Latte (Printable)

A sweet cherry and vanilla latte combining smooth espresso with creamy steamed milk and optional whipped cream.

# Ingredient List:

→ Cherry Syrup

01 - 2 tbsp cherry preserves or cherry syrup
02 - 1 tbsp water
03 - 1/2 tsp lemon juice

→ Latte Base

04 - 1 shot espresso or 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee
05 - 3/4 cup milk dairy or plant-based
06 - 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
07 - 1 tsp sugar or sweetener

→ Garnish

08 - Whipped cream
09 - Fresh or maraschino cherries
10 - Extra cherry syrup for drizzling

# Directions:

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 smoother consistency is desired.
02 - Prepare one shot of espresso using an espresso machine or brew 1/4 cup of strong coffee using a coffee maker or French press.
03 - Heat the milk in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until steaming, then froth using a milk frother or steam wand until hot and foamy with micro-foam texture.
04 - Add prepared cherry syrup and vanilla extract to a large mug. Pour hot espresso over the syrup mixture and stir thoroughly to combine flavors.
05 - Pour steamed milk over the espresso-cherry base, holding back foam with the back of a spoon. Gently spoon reserved foam on top to create layered presentation.
06 - Top with whipped cream if desired, drizzle with additional cherry syrup, and garnish with a fresh or maraschino cherry. Serve immediately while hot.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Tastes like a fancy coffee shop drink without the seven dollar price tag
  • The cherry vanilla combo is unexpectedly sophisticated and refreshing
02 -
  • The lemon juice might seem odd but it cuts through the sweetness and makes the cherry flavor pop
  • Straining the cherry syrup makes all the difference between a smooth latte and a chunky one
03 -
  • Double batch the cherry syrup and keep it in the fridge for quick lattes all week
  • Warm your mug with hot water first so your drink stays hot longer

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