This Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte is a stunning, refreshing coffee drink that combines sweet-tart cherry syrup with creamy vanilla almond milk and smooth cold brew or espresso. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and low in sugar—perfect for health-conscious coffee lovers or anyone looking to elevate their morning pick-me-up with vibrant flavor and gorgeous color. The homemade cherry syrup is easy to make and stores well, so you can enjoy this indulgent café-style drink anytime!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Cherry Simple Syrup

2 cups cherries, pitted (frozen or fresh)
½ cup sugar or monk fruit sweetener
½ cup water

Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte (for 1 serving)

½ cup cold brew or 2 shots chilled espresso
½ cup vanilla almond milk (e.g., Califia Farms)
2 tbsp vanilla almond creamer (e.g., Califia Farms)
2–3 tbsp cherry syrup (to taste)
Ice cubes

Directions

Make the Cherry Syrup:

In a small saucepan, combine cherries, water, and sweetener over medium heat.
Bring to a gentle simmer and stir occasionally, pressing down on cherries as they soften.
Once the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture thickens slightly, remove from heat.
Strain into a resealable glass container, discarding solids. Let cool completely.

Assemble the Iced Latte:

Fill your glass with ice. Add 2–3 tablespoons of cherry syrup.
Froth the vanilla almond milk and creamer together using a milk frother (optional).
Pour frothed milk over the ice and syrup.
Top with cold brew or espresso. Stir gently and enjoy!

Hot Option:
To enjoy warm, skip the ice and use freshly brewed espresso. Warm the milk before frothing.

Nutrients (Per Latte – Estimated)

Note: Exact values may vary depending on brands used.

Calories: ~90–120 kcal
Carbohydrates: ~14g
Protein: ~1g
Fat: ~3g
Sugar: ~10g (adjustable with sweetener)
Caffeine: ~90mg (from cold brew or espresso)
Calcium: ~150mg
Vitamin C: Small amount from cherries

The Secret is in the Cherry Syrup

What sets this drink apart is its homemade cherry syrup. Whether made from fresh cherries in the summer or frozen ones year-round, this syrup adds a bold pop of flavor and color that’s both eye-catching and mouthwatering. The cherries provide a natural tartness that balances beautifully with the mellow sweetness of vanilla and the slight bitterness of coffee. Making your own cherry syrup also means no artificial additives or preservatives—just real fruit, natural sweetness, and the ability to adjust the flavor to your liking.

Visually Stunning and Perfect for Social Sharing

One of the reasons this latte has gained so much popularity is its striking appearance. The cherry syrup settles at the bottom, creating a gradient effect as the creamy vanilla milk is poured in, followed by the dark swirl of cold brew or espresso. It’s the kind of beverage that’s made for Instagram, with its soft pink tones, cascading layers, and optional garnish of whole cherries or vanilla bean. This iced latte isn’t just a treat for your taste buds—it’s a visual delight that elevates any drink moment into something special.

A Healthier Iced Coffee Option

While traditional coffee drinks can be packed with sugar, syrups, and heavy dairy, this cherry vanilla iced latte takes a cleaner approach. Using vanilla almond milk and a splash of almond creamer keeps it dairy-free and lighter in fat. You can also opt for a low-sugar or no-sugar version of the cherry syrup by using monk fruit sweetener or stevia. Even with the added fruit syrup, this drink remains refreshingly low in calories compared to standard coffeehouse lattes, making it a smart choice for health-conscious coffee lovers.

Customizable to Fit Your Taste

One of the best parts about this latte is how easily you can make it your own. Prefer your drink stronger? Use a double shot of espresso or extra cold brew. Want it sweeter? Add more cherry syrup or a drizzle of maple syrup for a deeper sweetness. You can also swap out the milk and creamer for oat, soy, or coconut milk depending on your preference or dietary needs. Add cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice twist, or top it with whipped coconut cream for a more indulgent finish.

Refreshing and Energizing All Year Round

This iced latte is a go-to summer favorite, but it’s also easy to adapt for cooler months. When served over ice, it’s crisp, light, and hydrating—a perfect afternoon refreshment. For a cozy twist, the same ingredients can be used in a hot version by simply warming the milk and using freshly brewed espresso instead of cold brew. The cherry-vanilla flavor works beautifully in both forms, giving you year-round flexibility. Whether you’re sipping it poolside or enjoying a warm mug on a crisp fall morning, this latte always hits the spot.

Great for Entertaining or Impressing Guests

If you’re hosting brunch, a bridal shower, or a relaxed weekend gathering, the cherry vanilla iced latte makes for an impressive beverage option. You can prepare the cherry syrup ahead of time and let guests build their own lattes by layering syrup, milk, and espresso in their own glasses. It’s a fun, interactive element to add to your event that looks elevated without requiring too much prep. With a few extra touches—like frothy milk, a sprinkle of vanilla bean, or a cherry garnish—you’ll have a drink that feels just as fancy as anything served at a specialty café.

A Naturally Sweet Pick-Me-Up

Cherries are not only delicious but also offer health benefits, including antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. When blended into a simple syrup, they lend a natural sweetness that doesn’t feel artificial or overpowering. The vanilla almond milk adds a creamy base that softens the acidity of the coffee while enhancing the cherry flavor. Combined with the caffeine boost of espresso or cold brew, the result is a smooth and flavorful drink that energizes without spiking your blood sugar the way many syrup-heavy drinks can.

Easy to Make at Home with Minimal Ingredients

One of the greatest advantages of this cherry vanilla iced latte is how simple it is to make at home. Once you’ve prepared the cherry syrup—which takes just a few minutes and can be stored for days—you only need a few common ingredients to assemble the drink. With the rise of dairy-free alternatives and the availability of quality cold brew or espresso options, it’s easier than ever to create your favorite café drinks without leaving the house. Plus, homemade lattes are significantly more budget-friendly than daily trips to your local coffee shop.

Perfect for Meal Prep and On-the-Go Mornings

You can prep a batch of cherry syrup at the beginning of the week and keep it stored in a glass jar in the fridge for up to a week. This makes assembling your iced latte incredibly fast and convenient on busy mornings. Just add syrup, pour in milk and cold brew, and you’re out the door with a beautiful, energizing drink in hand. It’s an excellent solution for those who love fancy drinks but don’t have time for long morning routines. You can even take it in a reusable tumbler and enjoy it during your commute or between meetings.

Conclusion

The Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte is a vibrant, flavorful, and refreshing drink that offers a unique twist on your daily coffee. With the perfect blend of sweet cherry, smooth vanilla, and bold espresso or cold brew, it delivers both visual appeal and rich taste. This drink is proof that you don’t need complicated ingredients or sugar-laden syrups to enjoy a luxurious coffee experience. Whether you’re making it for yourself as a morning treat or serving it to guests at a brunch party, this iced latte is guaranteed to impress. Once you take your first sip, it’ll quickly become one of your favorite homemade coffee creations.