Viral Cherry Vanilla Latte (Printable Version)

A sweet espresso drink featuring cherry syrup and vanilla with creamy milk and optional whipped cream.

# Ingredient List:

→ Cherry Syrup

01 - 2 tablespoons cherry preserves or cherry syrup
02 - 1 tablespoon water
03 - 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

→ Latte

04 - 1 shot espresso (1 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 (optional, to taste)

→ Garnish

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

# How to Make:

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 texture is desired.
02 - Brew one shot of espresso using an espresso machine or prepare 1/4 cup of strongly brewed coffee using your preferred method.
03 - Heat and froth the milk using a steam wand, milk frother, or by heating in a small saucepan while whisking vigorously until hot and foamy with micro-foam texture.
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, holding back the foam with a spoon. Gently spoon the reserved foam on top of the latte.
06 - Top with whipped cream if desired. Drizzle additional cherry syrup over the foam and garnish with a fresh or maraschino cherry. Serve immediately while hot.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The combination of tart cherry and sweet vanilla creates this sophisticated flavor that feels like something you'd pay seven dollars for
  • It comes together in under ten minutes but tastes like you put way more thought and effort into it
02 -
  • Strain the cherry syrup through a fine mesh sieve if you want that completely smooth professional coffee shop texture
  • The lemon juice is not optional if you want that bright note that cuts through all the sweetness and makes the cherry flavor really sing
03 -
  • Invest in an actual milk frother because it transforms this from good to absolutely incredible with minimal effort
  • Make a double batch of the cherry syrup and store it in the fridge for instant latte happiness all week long

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