1 Perfect Iced Cherry Chai : A Refreshing Drink

Spring is in the air—and so is the craving for something cool, creamy, and delightfully spiced. If you’ve been dreaming about Starbucks’ Iced Cherry Chai Latte, this homemade version brings all the cozy chai spice and sweet cherry flair into your kitchen for a fraction of the price. With a spiced black tea base, velvety milk, and a luscious cherry cold foam on top, this drink tastes like cherry blossom season in a cup.

Whether you’re sipping in the sun or need a refreshing afternoon pick-me-up, this Iced Cherry Chai Latte Recipe delivers indulgent café vibes with ease.

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📝 Why You’ll Love This Iced Cherry Chai Latte

• Starbucks-Inspired at Home: A spot-on dupe that saves money and tastes fresher
• Balanced Flavors: Sweet cherry meets warm chai spice
• Perfect for Spring: Cold, fruity, and floral without being overly sugary
• Customizable: Make it dairy-free, sugar-free, or even hot
• Instagram-Worthy: That pink cold foam is just as pretty as it is delicious

🛒 Ingredients (1 Serving – 16 oz)

For the Chai Base:

• 1 chai tea bag (or 1 tbsp loose leaf chai)
• ¾ cup hot water
• ½ cup milk (whole, oat, or almond)
• 1 tsp maple syrup or honey (optional)

For the Cherry Cold Foam:

• ¼ cup cold milk or heavy cream
• 1 tbsp cherry syrup (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tbsp vanilla sweet cream (optional)
• 1 tbsp crushed freeze-dried cherries (for garnish)

Optional Homemade Cherry Syrup:

• ½ cup water
• ½ cup sugar
• ⅓ cup frozen cherries
• ½ tsp almond extract (optional)

🕒 Time Breakdown

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Brew & Chill Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: ~15 minutes

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Make the Chai Base

Steep chai tea bag in ¾ cup hot water for 5–7 minutes.
Remove the bag, stir in sweetener (if using), and let cool. Add ice and ½ cup milk.

Step 2: Prepare Cherry Cold Foam

In a frother or blender, combine cold milk/cream with cherry syrup and optional sweet cream. Whip until frothy but pourable.

Note: For a homemade cherry syrup, simmer water, sugar, and cherries for 10 minutes, then strain and cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Drink

Pour chai base into a tall glass with ice.
Spoon or pour cherry cold foam over the top.
Sprinkle with crushed freeze-dried cherries for that Starbucks finish.

Step 4: Sip & Savor

Use a straw or sip lid to enjoy layers of spice, sweet fruit, and creamy foam in every mouthful.

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🍒 Serving Suggestions

• Pair with almond biscotti or lemon loaf for a spring-themed treat
• Garnish with cherry blossoms or edible petals for a floral twist
• Add a splash of vanilla or almond extract to deepen the flavor profile

🔁 Variations & Tips

• Dairy-Free: Use oat milk or coconut cream for froth
• No Frother? Shake cold foam ingredients in a mason jar
• Iced Tea Shortcut: Use bottled chai concentrate and reduce the sweetener
• Hot Version: Heat chai and milk together, top with warm cherry foam
• Extra Cherry Boost: Add a tsp of cherry jam to the foam for color and flavor

🥡 Storage Tips

• Brew chai base in batches and store refrigerated for up to 3 days
• Cherry syrup can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for 1–2 weeks
• Froth milk just before serving for best foam consistency

🧬 Estimated Nutrition (Per 16 oz Drink)

Calories: ~190
Carbs: 26g
Fat: 6g
Sugar: 22g
Protein: 4g
Varies based on milk choice and syrup brand

🌐 External Resources

• Starbucks Spring Menu Overview – People
• How to Froth Milk at Home – Better Homes & Gardens
• Cherry Syrup from Scratch – Allrecipes
• Health Benefits of Chai Tea – Healthline

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Iced Cherry Chai Latte

Can I make this without a milk frother?
Yes! Shake the cherry foam in a tightly sealed mason jar or blend on low.

What’s the best chai tea to use?
Look for a strong black chai with cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and ginger. You can also use a chai concentrate for convenience.

Can I use maraschino cherry juice instead of syrup?
Yes, though it will be sweeter and less complex. Balance with a bit of almond extract if desired.

Can this be made ahead?
The chai base and syrup can be prepared ahead. Froth your foam fresh for best texture.

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