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, almond, soy, 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: Pour 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.

Tips & Variations

Use homemade cherry syrup made from real cherries for a fresher, more natural flavor.

Swap vanilla syrup with pure vanilla extract for a lighter vanilla taste.

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

For a richer latte, use steamed and frothed milk instead of cold milk.

Adjust the amount of syrup to match your desired sweetness level.

Storage

If you have leftover cherry or vanilla syrup, store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Prepared lattes are best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store a made latte, keep it in the fridge and consume within 24 hours. Reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave, stirring well before drinking.

FAQs

Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of espresso?

Yes, you can substitute espresso with 1/2 to 3/4 cup of very strong brewed coffee to maintain the bold coffee flavor in your latte.

How do I make homemade cherry syrup?

Simmer pitted fresh or frozen cherries with sugar and a little water until the cherries break down and the mixture thickens. Strain out the solids and let the syrup cool before using.