There’s something irresistible about the combination of rich coffee, vibrant cherries, and sweet vanilla swirling together in a cup. It’s not just a drink; it’s an experience that lifts your spirits and brings warmth to your day. As I crafted this Viral Cherry Vanilla Latte, the idea was to transform my kitchen into a cozy café, all while using fresh, delightful ingredients. Perfect for a lazy Sunday brunch or an afternoon pick-me-up, this latte dazzles both the eyes and the palate.

What makes this recipe truly stand out is its simplicity and versatility—whether you’re a coffee aficionado or just looking for a fresh twist on your usual routine. With options for dairy-free milk alternatives and the flexibility to customize sweetness levels, everyone can join in on this indulgent treat. So, grab your favorite mug and let’s dive into making a beverage that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!

Why Love This Cherry Vanilla Latte?

Irresistible flavor: The combination of rich coffee, sweet cherries, and aromatic vanilla offers a taste sensation that’ll awaken your senses.

Easy to prepare: You don’t need barista skills! This delightful beverage can be made at home with just a few ingredients.

Customization galore: Whether you prefer almond milk or want to add an extra scoop of sweetness, it’s all up to you!

Perfect for any occasion: Ideal for brunch, afternoon pick-me-ups, or even as a delightful dessert drink.

Visually stunning: With its layered appearance, this latte is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for the eyes.

In case you want to make your own syrup, don’t miss our tips for creating homemade cherry vanilla syrup!

Cherry Vanilla Latte Ingredients

For the Latte

Fresh Cherries – Add natural sweetness and vibrant color; substitute with frozen cherries for convenience.
Vanilla Extract – Provides rich aroma and flavor; consider using vanilla syrup for added sweetness.
Espresso (or strong coffee) – The base of the latte, ensuring a robust flavor; use a French press or espresso machine for best results.
Milk (or dairy-free alternative) – Creates creaminess and body; almond, oat, or coconut milk are great substitutes for a dairy-free version.
Sugar or Honey – Sweetens the beverage to taste; adjust based on personal preference.

For the Toppings (optional)

Whipped Cream – Adds a delightful finish and enhances presentation; try a dairy-free version if desired.
Extra Cherries – Garnish for a pop of color and extra flavor; use fresh or chocolate-dipped cherries for a special touch.
Chocolate Shavings – For a touch of decadence; they pair beautifully with the cherry and vanilla flavors.

Dive into this Cherry Vanilla Latte that’s not just delicious but also customizable—perfect for satisfying your coffee cravings!

How to Make Cherry Vanilla Latte

Brew Espresso: Start by preparing a shot of espresso or a strong cup of coffee. The robust flavor will serve as the perfect backbone for your latte.
Blend Cherries: Next, blend ½ cup of pitted fresh cherries with 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract until smooth. This vibrant mixture is the heart of your latte, adding that delightful fruity touch.
Heat Milk: In a saucepan, gently warm 1 cup of milk over medium heat until steaming but not boiling. If you want that café feel, froth the milk until it’s light and airy.
Combine Ingredients: In your favorite mug, pour in the freshly brewed espresso, followed by the cherry-vanilla blend. Carefully top this with the steamed milk for a beautifully layered effect.
Sweeten: Taste your latte and add sugar or honey as desired. Stir until fully dissolved to ensure every sip is perfectly sweetened.
Serve & Enjoy: Garnish your Cherry Vanilla Latte with extra cherries and a dollop of whipped cream, if desired. Enjoy the colorful presentation and rich flavors!

Optional: For an extra decorative touch, sprinkle some chocolate shavings on top!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Cherry Vanilla Latte

Fresh Ingredients: Always use the ripest cherries available for a more vibrant flavor. Frozen cherries can work in a pinch, but fresh cherries shine!
Frothing Milk: Invest in a milk frother for the best texture. Frothing adds a delightful café touch that elevates your Cherry Vanilla Latte experience.
Adjust Sweetness: Start with less sugar or honey, then add more to suit your taste. This way, you can control the sweetness without overwhelming the delicious cherry and vanilla flavors.
Layering Techniques: Pour your steamed milk slowly over the espresso and cherry-vanilla mixture for a stunning layered effect. This not only looks pretty but also enhances the drink’s flavor.
Serve Immediately: For the best experience, enjoy your Cherry Vanilla Latte right after making it. The flavors and textures are at their peak.

What to Serve with Cherry Vanilla Latte?

Transform your indulgent drink into a delightful meal experience that captivates your senses.

Flaky Croissants: Their buttery layers complement the latte’s sweetness, making each bite feel luxurious. Perfect for a morning treat!
Fresh Fruit Salad: The light and refreshing taste of seasonal fruits balances the rich flavors of the latte, adding a burst of color to your brunch table.
Mini Muffins: Try almond or cherry-flavored muffins to enhance the cherry notes in your drink. These delightful bites pair beautifully with the latte’s creamy texture.
Savory Spinach Quiche: The eggy, savory flavors provide a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of the Cherry Vanilla Latte. A brunch staple that everyone will love!
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: For a touch of indulgence, these treats elevate the experience, pairing wonderfully with the vanilla and cherry flavors of your drink.
Nutty Granola Bars: Crunchy and satisfying, these bars provide a great texture contrast, enhancing the coffee experience while being easy to enjoy any time of day.
Almond Biscotti: Ideal for dipping! The nutty flavor echoes the almond notes in some milk options and enhances your coffee break.
Vanilla Ice Cream: If you’re feeling indulgent, a scoop can be added to your latte for an extravagant dessert twist. It’s an irresistible treat for any sweet tooth!

Mix and match these suggestions for a beautiful spread that enhances the enjoyment of your Cherry Vanilla Latte.

Cherry Vanilla Latte Variations

Feel free to get creative with this delightful latte and make it your own!

Dairy-Free Options: Use almond, oat, or coconut milk for a creamy dairy-free delight that retains all the flavor. Perfect for those who are lactose intolerant!
Frozen Cherry Swap: If fresh cherries aren’t available, opt for frozen ones. Just blend them straight from the freezer, and enjoy the same luscious taste.
Sweetener Switch: Experiment with maple syrup or agave for a unique sweet touch. These alternatives can bring out different flavor notes, enhancing your latte experience.
Iced Version: Cool down your day by making an iced Cherry Vanilla Latte! Blend brewed espresso with ice, add the cherry-vanilla mix, and top with cold milk for a refreshing treat.
Almond Extract Twist: Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty flavor profile. It adds a new layer of complexity while still harmonizing beautifully with the cherries.
Chocolate Drizzle: Add a rich chocolate drizzle on top of whipped cream for a decadent touch. It complements the sweetness of cherries and the warmth of vanilla perfectly.
Extra Flavor Blast: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg while blending your cherry and vanilla mix for a warm spice twist that contrasts beautifully with the cool vanilla.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for an unexpected spicy note in your latte. This twist will awaken your taste buds and add an adventurous flair.

How to Store and Freeze Cherry Vanilla Latte

Fridge: Store any leftover Cherry Vanilla Latte in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring well to redistribute flavors. Avoid boiling to maintain the creamy texture.

Make-Ahead: Prepare the cherry-vanilla blend in advance and keep it in the fridge for up to a week. Just add your espresso and milk when you’re ready to enjoy.

Freezer: You can freeze the cherry-vanilla mixture in ice cube trays for up to 3 months. Blend with fresh espresso and milk for a quick and refreshing iced version later!

Make Ahead Options

These Cherry Vanilla Lattes are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time! You can prepare the cherry-vanilla blend (½ cup of blended pitted fresh cherries with 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent browning. You can also brew your espresso and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the espresso gently, heat your milk, and combine them with the prepared cherry-vanilla mixture. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, café-style Cherry Vanilla Latte with minimal effort!

Cherry Vanilla Latte Recipe FAQs

How do I choose fresh cherries for my Cherry Vanilla Latte?
Absolutely! Look for cherries that are firm and plump, with a vibrant red color. Avoid any with dark spots or blemishes, as these may be overripe. If you can’t find fresh cherries, frozen ones can also be a convenient option without sacrificing too much flavor!

How should I store leftover Cherry Vanilla Latte?
Very! Store any leftover Cherry Vanilla Latte in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring well to ensure it’s nice and creamy without boiling.

Can I freeze my Cherry Vanilla Latte?
Of course! You can freeze the cherry-vanilla mixture in ice cube trays for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, blend a few cubes with fresh espresso and milk for a refreshing iced version. It’s a great way to have a quick treat on hand!

What should I do if my latte doesn’t froth well?
Sometimes milk doesn’t froth as well as we’d like! Make sure you’re using milk that’s cold and has a higher fat content, like whole milk or cream. If you’re using a dairy-free alternative, brands like oat milk tend to froth better than others. You can also try whisking vigorously by hand as a backup!

Is this Cherry Vanilla Latte suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! You can easily make this latte dairy-free by using almond, coconut, or oat milk. For sweetness, feel free to use honey, maple syrup, or sugar substitutes if there are any allergies. Always double-check ingredient labels to suit your needs!

Can I use a different type of coffee base?
Yes, the more the merrier! While espresso provides a robust flavor, you can also use strong brewed coffee, cold brew, or even flavored coffee for a fun twist. Just keep in mind that the strength of the coffee will affect the overall flavor of your Cherry Vanilla Latte.