Description
This Viral Cherry Vanilla Latte is a delightful and refreshing twist on a classic favorite, combining sweet cherry syrup with rich espresso and creamy milk for a perfectly balanced low-sugar coffee treat. Easy to make at home, this recipe offers a fruity, vanilla-infused latte with customizable sweetness and dairy options.
Ingredients
Cherry Syrup
- 2 cups frozen cherries
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla paste
- 1/4-1/3 cup allulose (adjust to taste; can substitute coconut sugar or regular sugar)
Cherry Latte
- 2-3 tbsp cherry sauce (from Cherry Syrup recipe above)
- 1-2 shots espresso
- 3 tbsp milk of choice (almond, coconut, or regular milk)
- 2 tbsp heavy cream (regular or dairy-free)
- 1/4 tsp vanilla paste (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Cook the Cherries: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the frozen cherries, water, and allulose. Heat until the cherries begin to soften and release their juices.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cherries are softened and the sauce thickens. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla paste.
- Blend the Syrup: Use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the mixture to a blender. Blend until the cherry syrup is smooth and well combined.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is thicker than desired, add a little water to thin it to your preferred consistency.
- Brew the Espresso: Prepare 1 to 2 shots of espresso using an espresso machine, Nespresso, or brew strong coffee if espresso is unavailable.
- Froth the Milk and Cream: Using a milk frother or whisk, froth together the milk, heavy cream, and optional vanilla paste until the mixture becomes lightly foamy.
- Assemble the Latte: Fill a glass with ice, pour in the cherry sauce first, then add the espresso shots followed by the milk and cream mixture. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
- Top & Enjoy: Optionally garnish with a drizzle of additional cherry sauce or a light sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor and presentation. Serve immediately.
Notes
- You can adjust the sweetness of the cherry syrup by varying the amount of allulose or sugar substitute used.
- For a dairy-free version, use almond or coconut milk and a dairy-free heavy cream alternative.
- If you don’t have vanilla paste, vanilla extract can be used as a substitute.
- This latte is best enjoyed fresh for optimal flavor and frothiness.
- Store any leftover cherry syrup in the refrigerator for up to one week.