A cozy, sweet, and creamy cherry vanilla tea latte I can easily make at home — perfect for relaxing mornings or an afternoon treat. The combination of fruity cherry, warm vanilla, and rich black tea creates a comforting beverage with a delightful twist that feels both refreshing and indulgent.
Ingredients
1 cup brewed black tea (strongly brewed)
1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
2 tablespoons cherry syrup or cherry preserves
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon honey or sweetener of choice (optional)
Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
Fresh cherries or cherry bits (optional, for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Brew the black tea strong and pour it into a small saucepan.
Add the cherry syrup or cherry preserves and vanilla extract to the tea. Stir and heat gently over medium-low heat until warm, about 3-4 minutes.
In a separate small pot, warm the milk until steaming but not boiling. Froth the milk using a milk frother or whisk vigorously until foamy.
Pour the warm cherry vanilla tea into my favorite mug.
Slowly add the frothed milk on top, stirring gently to combine.
Sweeten with honey if desired, and top with whipped cream and fresh cherries for an extra indulgent touch.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 1 serving.
Prep time is about 5 minutes, and cooking takes another 5 minutes, so I have a delicious latte ready in just 10 minutes total.
Variations
For a dairy-free version, I use almond, oat, or soy milk instead of dairy milk.
I sometimes swap cherry syrup for cherry jam or preserves for a thicker, fruitier flavor.
To make it iced, I chill the brewed tea and milk separately, then combine over ice with the cherry syrup and vanilla.
For extra richness, adding a splash of cream or coconut cream is delicious.
If I want a caffeine-free option, I substitute black tea with rooibos or herbal tea.
Storage/reheating
This latte is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours if needed. When reheating, I warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, then re-froth the milk for the best texture. The whipped cream and fresh cherry garnish are best added fresh before serving.
FAQs
Can I use green or herbal tea instead of black tea?
Yes, I can use green tea or a mild herbal tea if I prefer, but keep in mind the flavor profile will change slightly and might be less bold.
How can I make this latte less sweet?
I simply reduce or skip the honey or sweetener and use unsweetened cherry preserves or syrup.
Is there a vegan way to make this?
Absolutely! Using plant-based milk like oat or almond milk and a vegan sweetener like maple syrup keeps this latte vegan-friendly.
Can I prepare this latte in advance?
I prefer to prepare it fresh for the best flavor and texture, but I can make the cherry vanilla tea base ahead and reheat it when ready.
What’s the best way to froth milk without a frother?
I whisk vigorously by hand or shake the warm milk in a tightly sealed jar until frothy.
Conclusion
Making this cherry vanilla tea latte at home is one of my favorite ways to enjoy a cozy, sweet treat without any fuss. The balance of cherry, vanilla, and black tea flavors warms me up and satisfies my craving for something special. Whether I need a morning boost or a relaxing afternoon pick-me-up, this easy recipe always hits the spot.
Recipe:
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Easy Homemade Cherry Vanilla Tea Latte
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A cozy, sweet, and creamy cherry vanilla tea latte made with strong black tea, cherry syrup, vanilla, and frothed milk—perfect for relaxing mornings or an indulgent afternoon treat.
Ingredients
1 cup brewed black tea (strongly brewed)
1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
2 tablespoons cherry syrup or cherry preserves
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon honey or sweetener of choice (optional)
Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
Fresh cherries or cherry bits (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Brew the black tea strong and pour it into a small saucepan.
- Add the cherry syrup or cherry preserves and vanilla extract to the tea. Stir and heat gently over medium-low heat until warm, about 3-4 minutes.
- In a separate small pot, warm the milk until steaming but not boiling. Froth the milk using a milk frother or whisk vigorously until foamy.
- Pour the warm cherry vanilla tea into your favorite mug.
- Slowly add the frothed milk on top, stirring gently to combine.
- Sweeten with honey if desired, and top with whipped cream and fresh cherries for an extra indulgent touch.
Notes
Use almond, oat, or soy milk for a dairy-free version.
Substitute cherry syrup with cherry jam or preserves for a thicker, fruitier flavor.
To make it iced, chill brewed tea and milk separately and combine over ice with cherry syrup and vanilla.
Add a splash of cream or coconut cream for extra richness.
For a caffeine-free option, substitute black tea with rooibos or herbal tea.
Store in refrigerator up to 24 hours; reheat gently and re-froth milk before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Brewing and Heating
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
