Cherry Vanilla Matcha Latte Recipe
The Cherry Vanilla Matcha Latte is a vibrant, fresh twist on the classic latte, blending juicy cherries, fragrant vanilla, and earthy matcha into every dreamy sip. This homemade specialty combines bold, ripe fruitiness with the restorative notes of premium green tea, all smoothed out by your favorite plant-based milk. If you love café-worthy drinks that are as beautiful as they are crave-worthy, this recipe is about to become your new obsession. Whether it’s for a luxurious morning pick-me-up or a cozy afternoon treat, the Cherry Vanilla Matcha Latte gives you a sweet reason to slow down and savor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here is working overtime—cherries and vanilla bring the fragrance and juicy pop, while matcha offers a vibrant green hue and calm energy. The list is short but makes all the difference, creating a drink that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious. Here’s what you’ll need and why you shouldn’t skip a single part:
- Organic cane sugar: Delivers clean, pure sweetness that lets cherry and matcha flavors shine.
- Whole cherries, pitted: Adds real fruity body and bursts of juicy color to your syrup.
- Cherry juice: Boosts both the tangy tartness and the natural hue—your shortcut to a true cherry punch!
- Filtered water: Keeps your syrup clear, fresh, and vibrant without any dull aftertaste.
- Vanilla bean paste: Infuses the syrup with a sweet, floral depth you just can’t fake.
- Plant milk of choice: Creates a creamy, frothy base that ties everything together—almond, oat, or soy all shine here.
- Cherry vanilla syrup: That homemade, flavor-packed syrup is your signature—adjust to taste for more or less sweetness.
- Matcha + hot water: Premium matcha delivers vibrant color and gentle caffeine. Whisking with hot (not boiling) water is key for the best texture.
How to Make Cherry Vanilla Matcha Latte
Step 1: Make the Cherry Vanilla Syrup
Start by grabbing a small pot and combine your cherry juice, organic cane sugar, filtered water, and those beautiful whole, pitted cherries. Set the heat to low—to coax out the cherries’ flavor gently. Stir occasionally and let it cook for about 3 to 5 minutes, until the sugar dissolves and the cherries become tender. Use a spatula to lightly break up the cherries, infusing the syrup with even more juicy flavor and color. Be careful not to let the mixture bubble. When everything is silky and well-combined, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the vanilla bean paste, letting its floral sweetness meld into the syrup. Let it cool before straining or using as is.
Step 2: Prepare the Matcha
Measure out your matcha (about 1.5 teaspoons) and place it in a small bowl. Heat 1/4 cup of water to 175°F—never boiling, as too much heat can make your matcha taste bitter. Sift the matcha into your bowl for the smoothest texture. Using a bamboo whisk (or a regular one, if that’s what you have), briskly whisk until the matcha is fully dissolved with no clumps left. You’re aiming for a frothy, emerald-green mixture.
Step 3: Build Your Drink
Add ice to your favorite glass. Pour in your cooled Cherry Vanilla Syrup—about 2 teaspoons, or more if you prefer extra sweetness. Next, add 3/4 cup of your choice of plant milk, layering it gently over the syrup for a pretty effect. Finally, pour the whisked matcha over the top. Grab a straw or spoon and give it a gentle stir to create a mesmerizing swirl of green, pink, and creamy white. That’s your Cherry Vanilla Matcha Latte, ready to steal the show!
How to Serve Cherry Vanilla Matcha Latte
Garnishes
This drink absolutely deserves a little flourish. Top with extra whole cherries or a twist of lemon peel for freshness, or sprinkle a little more sifted matcha on top for a pop of color. For an elevated touch, a dash of vanilla sugar or edible flowers on the froth make your Cherry Vanilla Matcha Latte café-beautiful with almost zero effort.
Side Dishes
Pair your Cherry Vanilla Matcha Latte with tender almond financiers, buttery shortbread cookies, or even a warm slice of banana bread. The delicate cherry and vanilla flavors match beautifully with “just sweet enough” baked goods and anything featuring almonds or pistachios. For a lighter touch, a simple fruit salad or citrusy yogurt parfait will keep things fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
Show off those gorgeous layers in a clear glass or mason jar. For a playful brunch, serve in small milk bottles with pastel paper straws. Entertaining? Try a pitcher version with fresh cherries skewered on cocktail picks for guests, or add whipped coconut cream on top for a dessert-worthy finish. However you pour it, the Cherry Vanilla Matcha Latte is guaranteed to get oohs and ahhs.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Cherry Vanilla Matcha Latte (or just leftover syrup), keep it covered in the fridge. The syrup should stay vibrant for up to a week; just give it a stir before using as the fruit tends to settle. The assembled latte is best enjoyed fresh, but you can refrigerate for a few hours and re-stir before serving.
Freezing
While you probably won’t want to freeze the whole latte, the cherry vanilla syrup can definitely be made ahead and frozen in ice cube trays. Pop out a cube whenever a craving strikes and you’ll have instant flavor for your next matcha latte or even a quick drizzle over ice cream!
Reheating
If you prefer your Cherry Vanilla Matcha Latte warm, gently heat your plant milk and syrup together before adding the whisked matcha. Avoid boiling to maintain the matcha’s delicate flavor, and whisk again for that signature froth. The syrup can also be microwaved (just a few seconds) if it firms up in the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work beautifully in the syrup—just thaw them first and proceed as directed. The vibrant color and flavor will be just as bold, plus it’s a great way to enjoy the Cherry Vanilla Matcha Latte all year round.
What’s the best plant milk for this latte?
Oat milk gives a creamy, sweet finish that plays perfectly with cherries and vanilla, but almond, soy, or even coconut milk work great as well. Pick what you love or what you have on hand—the Cherry Vanilla Matcha Latte is super versatile!
Can I make the syrup ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cherry vanilla syrup up to a week in advance and refrigerate it. This way, you’re always just a few minutes from your next homemade Cherry Vanilla Matcha Latte.
Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
Definitely! By default, the Cherry Vanilla Matcha Latte is vegan (as long as you use plant milk), and all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just check your matcha brand and plant milk to be sure there are no additives if you have strict dietary needs.
How do I get pretty layers in my latte?
Pour the cherry vanilla syrup first, then the milk, and finally, float the matcha gently over the top while adding ice last. For the best effect, use a clear glass and don’t stir until serving. Guests will love the ombré look!
Final Thoughts
It’s honestly hard not to feel giddy about sharing this Cherry Vanilla Matcha Latte. It’s striking, delicious, and so easy to make at home—truly a little celebration in a glass. Give it a try and discover just how delightful matcha can be when cherry and vanilla join the party!
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Cherry Vanilla Matcha Latte Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavor combination of cherry, vanilla, and matcha with this Cherry Vanilla Matcha Latte recipe. Perfect for a refreshing pick-me-up or a cozy drink to unwind.
Ingredients
Cherry Vanilla Syrup
- 1/4 cup organic cane sugar
- 6–7 whole cherries, pitted
- 1/4 cup cherry juice
- 2 tbsp filtered water
- 2 tsp vanilla bean paste
Latte
- 3/4 cup plant milk of choice
- 2 tsp cherry vanilla syrup, or to taste
- 1.5 tsp matcha + 1/4 cup hot water
Instructions
- Cherry Vanilla Syrup – Add cherry juice, sugar, water, and whole cherries to a pot. Cook on low heat until cherries are tender and sugar is dissolved (about 3-5 minutes). Break up cherry pieces with a spatula. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla bean paste.
- Assemble the Cherry Vanilla Matcha Latte – Prepare a glass with ice. Heat water to 175F. Whisk matcha in a bowl until smooth. In the glass, add syrup, milk, and top with matcha. Stir well before enjoying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 latte
- Calories: Approx. 150 kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Cherry, Vanilla, Matcha, Latte, Drink, Beverage
