Viral Cherry Vanilla Latte (Printable version)

Sweet cherry and vanilla blend with espresso and steamed milk for a delightful drink.

# What you need:

→ Cherry Syrup

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

→ Latte

04 - 1 shot espresso (30 ml) or 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee
05 - 3/4 cup milk, dairy or plant-based (180 ml)
06 - 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
07 - 1 teaspoon sugar or sweetener, to taste

→ Garnish

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

# How to make it:

01 - Combine cherry preserves, water, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth and syrupy consistency forms, approximately 2 minutes. Strain through fine mesh sieve for ultra-smooth texture if desired.
02 - Pull fresh espresso shot or brew strong coffee using preferred method. Ensure beverage is hot for optimal blending with syrup base.
03 - Heat milk in small saucepan until steaming, then froth using steam wand or handheld frother until thick, velvety foam forms. Alternatively, shake vigorously in sealed jar and heat.
04 - Add prepared cherry syrup and vanilla extract to large mug. Pour hot espresso over syrup mixture, stirring thoroughly to completely dissolve and incorporate flavors.
05 - Hold back foam with spoon while pouring steamed milk into mug over espresso-cherry base. Gently spoon reserved foam atop beverage for professional layered appearance.
06 - Crown generously with whipped cream, drizzle additional cherry syrup across cream, and place fresh or maraschino cherry on top. Serve immediately while hot.

# Expert tips:

01 -
  • The combination of cherry and vanilla creates this nostalgic ice cream shop flavor that somehow feels sophisticated in coffee form
  • You probably already have everything in your pantry, making it an instant upgrade to your morning routine without a special trip
02 -
  • Straining the cherry syrup through a fine mesh sieve makes for a smoother drinking experience if you dislike fruit pieces
  • The lemon juice is crucial for cutting through the sweetness and balancing all the flavors
03 -
  • Warm your mug with hot water before building the latte so your drink stays hot longer
  • For a lighter version, skip the whipped cream and use skim milk

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