What if your summer drink could combine the bold spices of chai with the sweetness of cherries? That’s exactly what this iced cherry chai latte recipe delivers!
In today’s 2025 guide, I’ll show you how to craft this refreshing café-style drink in your own kitchen. Fun fact: cherries aren’t just delicious—they’re packed with antioxidants that boost your health too!
Ready to sip on something sweet, spicy, and totally Instagram-worthy? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
What Is an Iced Cherry Chai Latte Recipe?
Okay, real talk—I didn’t even know an iced cherry chai latte recipe existed until last summer when I got a little experimental in my kitchen. I had a bowl of fresh cherries sitting on the counter (leftovers from my failed attempt at cherry pie), and a pitcher of brewed chai tea chilling in the fridge. That’s when it hit me—what if I combined the two? Spoiler: best decision ever.
What Defines an Iced Cherry Chai Latte Recipe?
At its core, an iced cherry chai latte recipe is a simple but magical blend of sweet cherries, bold chai spices, creamy milk, and ice. You start with strong brewed chai tea—black tea spiced with cinnamon, cloves, ginger, cardamom, and maybe even a little black pepper. Then, you add cherry puree or syrup, a sweetener like honey or maple syrup, pour it over ice, and top it with milk (dairy or plant-based—whatever you love). The result? A fruity, spiced drink that’s both refreshing and cozy. It sounds strange, but once you sip it… trust me, you’ll get it.
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Why Cherries and Chai Spices Just Work
I’ll admit, the first time I tried adding cherries to my chai, I was skeptical. But cherries have this sweet-yet-tart thing going on that somehow balances out the warm spices in chai. The cherries brighten up the bold tea flavors, while the spices keep the drink from tasting like a fruit punch gone wrong. Lesson learned the hard way? Don’t dump too much cherry puree into your iced cherry chai latte recipe. Keep it balanced—¼ cup of puree is perfect. Too much, and it tastes like melted cherry candy (and not in a good way).
Bonus tip: Add a splash of vanilla if you’re feeling fancy. It mellows everything out in the best way.
How It’s Different from a Regular Iced Chai Latte
Now, if you’re used to grabbing a basic iced chai latte from your local café, you’re in for a surprise. A classic iced chai latte is delicious, sure. But adding cherries transforms the drink into something next-level. An iced cherry chai latte recipe gives you a natural fruit sweetness layered over warm spices. Plus, it has a gorgeous reddish-pink tint that honestly looks super Instagrammable.
Unlike those syrup-heavy coffee shop drinks, this homemade iced cherry chai latte recipe feels light, flavorful, and fresh. It’s the perfect drink for a summer afternoon when you’re craving something both sweet and spicy.
In short? The iced cherry chai latte recipe is what you make when you want your drink to look fancy but feel cozy. Once you try it, you’ll wonder why you waited so long.
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Iced Cherry Chai Latte Recipe (2025 Guide) – How to Make This Sweet & Spicy Summer Drink
A refreshing iced latte combining sweet cherries with bold chai spices, perfect for summer sipping.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
Ingredients
- ½ cup fresh or frozen cherries (pitted)
- ¾ cup strong brewed chai tea (cooled)
- ¼ to ½ cup cherry puree
- ½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1–2 tablespoons honey, maple syrup, or sugar
- Ice cubes
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, cinnamon dust, cherry syrup, whole cherries
Instructions
- Brew 2 chai tea bags in 1 cup hot water; steep 10 minutes and cool completely.
- Blend ½ cup pitted cherries into smooth puree; strain if desired.
- In a shaker or jar, combine ¾ cup cooled chai tea, ¼ to ½ cup cherry puree, ½ cup milk, and 1-2 tablespoons sweetener.
- Shake or blend until frothy and well combined.
- Fill a glass with large ice cubes.
- Pour the latte mixture over ice.
- Garnish with whipped cream, cinnamon, cherry syrup, or whole cherries as desired.
- Serve chilled and enjoy.
Notes
Use fresh or frozen cherries for best flavor. Adjust sweetener to taste. For a fancier look, drizzle cherry syrup inside the glass before pouring.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Drink
- Method: Blended
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Ingredients for the Perfect Iced Cherry Chai Latte Recipe
Let me tell you, after testing way too many versions of this iced cherry chai latte recipe, I’ve finally nailed the perfect combo of ingredients. Some worked… some flopped hard (using tart cherry juice concentrate was not my finest moment). Below, I’ll walk you through what I’ve learned, so you don’t make the same mistakes I did.
1. Fresh or Frozen Cherries (The Star of the Show)
First things first: you absolutely need cherries. Fresh cherries are ideal (I love the sweet black variety), but honestly? Frozen cherries work just as well. In fact, sometimes they blend smoother. You’ll want about ½ cup of pitted cherries to get that rich cherry flavor without overpowering the chai. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in a few sour cherries for a little tang.
Pro tip: Don’t use canned cherries packed in syrup—it’ll make your iced cherry chai latte recipe taste way too sweet and artificial. I learned that one the hard way.
2. Strong Brewed Chai Tea (Or Chai Concentrate)
Your base matters. Brew a strong chai tea using 2 tea bags per cup of water. I like brewing it in advance and keeping it chilled in the fridge, ready for mixing.
In a pinch, chai concentrate totally works too, but watch out for the sugar content—it can throw off the balance of your iced cherry chai latte recipe if you’re not careful.
3. Sweetener: Honey, Maple Syrup, or Plain Sugar
You’ve got options here. Personally, I love using honey—it pairs so well with both cherries and chai spices. Maple syrup adds a subtle earthy note that’s delish too. If you’re all about classic sweetness, white sugar works just fine.
Start with 1-2 tablespoons of sweetener and adjust from there. Just don’t overdo it—you want the cherries to shine in your iced cherry chai latte recipe, not get buried under syrupy sweetness.
4. Milk (Dairy or Plant-Based)
Now for the creamy part. Whole milk gives you that rich, café-style finish, but almond milk adds a nutty depth that’s downright dreamy. Oat milk? Equally amazing. Coconut milk? Tried it once—too tropical for my taste, but hey, you do you.
Whatever milk you choose, aim for about ½ cup per drink.
5. Ice Cubes (Don’t Skip This)
I know it’s obvious, but hear me out—ice matters. Using larger cubes helps your drink stay cold without watering down too quickly. Trust me, no one wants a sad, lukewarm iced cherry chai latte recipe by the time they reach the bottom of the glass.
6. Optional Toppings (Because Why Not?)
Here’s where you can get a little extra. A swirl of whipped cream? Totally decadent. Dusting of cinnamon on top? Yes, please. Drizzle a little cherry syrup for that Instagram-worthy effect. Sometimes, I skip toppings for a lighter feel, but when I’m hosting friends, you better believe I go full-on Pinterest with my presentation.
Step-by-Step Iced Cherry Chai Latte Recipe
I’m not gonna lie—when I first tried making this iced cherry chai latte recipe, I totally botched it. I forgot to cool the tea, threw the cherries in whole (yeah… pits and all), and ended up with a chunky mess that looked more like swamp water than a Pinterest-worthy drink. So, learn from my chaos! Here’s the step-by-step process that actually works, refined after way too many trial runs.
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Step 1: Brew Strong Chai Tea and Let It Cool
The key to a flavorful iced cherry chai latte recipe is seriously strong chai. I brew 2 tea bags per 1 cup of hot water, sometimes even three if I want that extra spice kick. Let it steep for 10 minutes to really pull those cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom notes out.
Here’s the mistake I made more than once: I rushed this step and poured hot tea over ice. Result? Diluted, watery latte. Always, always let your chai cool completely—pop it in the fridge for 30 minutes if you’re impatient like me.
Step 2: Blend Cherries into a Puree or Syrup
Now for the cherries! Grab about ½ cup of fresh or frozen cherries (pitted, please) and blend them into a smooth puree. If you’re feeling fancy, simmer them with a little sugar and water to make a quick cherry syrup.
Personally, I stick with a simple puree because I like keeping the sugar under control in my iced cherry chai latte recipe. If your blender’s on the struggle bus (been there), strain the puree to remove any rogue skins.
Step 3: Mix Cooled Chai Tea, Cherry Puree, Milk, and Sweetener
This is where the magic happens. In a large mason jar or cocktail shaker, combine:
- ¾ cup cooled chai tea
- ¼ to ½ cup cherry puree
- ½ cup milk (I’m team oat milk, but use what you love)
- 1-2 tablespoons sweetener (honey is my fave)
Tip: Don’t be afraid to taste as you go! Once, I dumped too much cherry in and wondered why my latte tasted like cherry jam. Oops.
Step 4: Shake or Blend Until Frothy
Shake it like your life depends on it. Seriously, shaking (or blending) makes this iced cherry chai latte recipe creamy and frothy—just like what you’d get at a café.
If you don’t have a shaker, stir vigorously, but shaking gives that velvety texture that feels oh-so professional.
Step 5: Pour Over Ice and Garnish
Fill your glass with large ice cubes, pour your pinkish-red latte mix over the ice, and let out a satisfied sigh. For a final touch, toss in a few whole cherries, a cinnamon stick, or even a little whipped cream if you’re feeling indulgent.
Sometimes, when I’m in a mood, I drizzle extra cherry syrup down the inside of the glass before pouring for that coffee shop aesthetic. Totally unnecessary—but hey, it looks cool.
And there you have it—the exact iced cherry chai latte recipe I wish someone had handed me before my disaster attempts. Simple, refreshing, and just a little fancy. Give it a try, and trust me—you’ll be making this all summer long.
Flavor Variations for Your Iced Cherry Chai Latte Recipe
If you’re anything like me, once you’ve made the basic iced cherry chai latte recipe, you’ll start thinking… “How can I make this even fancier?” Trust me, I’ve been down that road. After plenty of trial-and-error (some of which I’d rather forget), here are my top flavor variations that’ll take your cherry chai obsession to the next level.
Vanilla Cherry Chai Latte Recipe
Let me tell you: adding vanilla is like flipping a flavor switch. It smooths out the bold chai spices and blends with the cherries in a way that feels downright luxurious. I usually add about ¼ teaspoon of pure vanilla extract straight into the shaker with the cherry puree and chai tea.
Want to level up? Use vanilla almond milk instead of regular milk. That was a happy accident I discovered after running out of plain almond milk one morning, and now it’s my go-to. The vanilla boosts the cherry sweetness without overpowering it.
Cherry Almond Chai Latte Recipe
This one’s nutty (pun intended). Swap your usual milk for almond milk, and if you’re brave, add a few drops of almond extract. Careful though—it’s strong! I once dumped half a teaspoon in and had to toss the whole drink. Stick to ⅛ teaspoon for that subtle almond-cherry combo that tastes like a bakery in a glass.
Almond milk makes the iced cherry chai latte recipe feel a little lighter, but the nutty note keeps it rich. If you’re a marzipan fan, you’ll love this twist.
Spicy Ginger Cherry Chai Latte
Feeling bold? Add fresh ginger to the mix. I started doing this when I wanted something with a bit more zing on hot days. Peel and grate about ½ teaspoon of fresh ginger and blend it right into your cherry puree. That spicy warmth from the ginger pairs weirdly well with the sweet cherries.
One time I overdid it—like, tablespoon-level overdid it—and it felt like my throat was on fire. Learn from my mistake and start small.
Cherry Syrup vs. Fresh Cherries
Alright, let’s settle this debate. Do you need fresh cherries for your iced cherry chai latte recipe? Nope. Cherry syrup totally works, especially if you’re short on time or making drinks for a group.
That said, fresh or frozen cherries give a thicker, more natural flavor. Syrup is sweeter, more concentrated, and slightly artificial. If you go the syrup route, cut back on sweetener elsewhere in the drink. For me, fresh cherries win on flavor every time, but syrup is easier when I’m in “lazy barista” mode.
Frozen Iced Cherry Chai Frappuccino Twist
Okay, this one’s my personal favorite. Ever had a cherry chai frappuccino? Probably not. But you can make one by blending your usual ingredients with a handful of ice until it’s slushy.
I accidentally invented this when my blender was too aggressive one day, but now I make it on purpose. Top it with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, and you’ve got a fancy frozen treat that rivals anything at a coffee shop.
Health Benefits of Cherries and Spices in Iced Cherry Chai Latte Recipe
Okay, real talk—I didn’t originally make this iced cherry chai latte recipe thinking it was gonna be healthy. I just wanted something cold, sweet, and fancy without spending $6 at a coffee shop. But after doing a little digging (and honestly being surprised myself), turns out this drink’s packed with benefits that go way beyond its good looks. Let’s break it down.
Cherries: Little Antioxidant Powerhouses
Cherries aren’t just pretty. These little guys are loaded with antioxidants like anthocyanins, which give them that deep red color. According to some studies (yes, I geeked out reading them), cherries can help reduce inflammation, support heart health, and even improve sleep.
I started using cherries more after learning they’ve got natural melatonin. Weird, right? A latte that might help you relax? That’s a win in my book.
Bonus tip: Frozen cherries keep most of their nutrients. So, if you’re not using fresh, don’t stress—your iced cherry chai latte recipe is still giving you those sweet health perks.
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Chai Spices: Secret Digestive Helpers
Now, onto the chai spices. Cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves aren’t just for flavor. These spices are known for helping with digestion and boosting metabolism. Cinnamon can help regulate blood sugar, ginger can ease nausea (ask me how I know… morning sickness flashbacks), and cardamom? Apparently great for fighting bloating.
After learning all that, I started seeing my chai not just as a treat, but as a sneaky health booster. Funny how adding a bit of knowledge makes you feel less guilty about having two cups in one day!
Lower Sugar Swaps for a Healthier Latte
Here’s where I used to mess up—adding way too much honey. Or worse, using store-bought cherry syrup packed with sugar. If you wanna keep your iced cherry chai latte recipe healthier, go light on the sweetener.
What I do now: blend fresh cherries (they’re sweet enough), use a drizzle of honey or maple syrup (no more than 1 tablespoon), and skip syrups unless it’s a special treat. Trust me, your tastebuds adjust, and you’ll start craving that natural cherry flavor more.
Almond Milk or Oat Milk: Better for You?
Milk matters more than I thought. Whole milk tastes rich, but it’s higher in calories and saturated fats. Almond milk? Super low-cal, and adds a subtle nuttiness that works beautifully with the cherries and chai. Oat milk is creamier and adds fiber, which is something I didn’t realize until a dietitian friend pointed it out.
If you’re going for a “healthier” iced cherry chai latte recipe, oat milk is my go-to. It gives you that creamy coffee shop vibe without the heaviness. Plus, it froths up nicely if you’re into that foam life
Honestly, I feel way better sipping my iced cherry chai chai latte recipe now that I know it’s not just a pretty drink. Between the antioxidants in cherries, metabolism-boosting spices, and smart milk swaps, this latte’s pretty much a health snack in disguise (okay, maybe that’s a stretch—but let me believe it!).
Next time you’re sipping yours, just remember: you’re not just indulging—you’re fueling your body too. Pretty cool, right?
Serving Ideas for Your Iced Cherry Chai Latte Recipe
If you’re anything like me, you know the drink has to look as good as it tastes. I mean, half the fun of making an iced cherry chai latte recipe is showing it off, right? After tinkering in my kitchen (and snapping way too many photos), I’ve found some easy ways to make this drink look café-level fancy without much effort. Presentation matters, my friend!
Best Glassware: Mason Jars or Tall Glasses?
Let’s talk glassware. For a rustic, Pinterest-worthy vibe, you can’t go wrong with a classic mason jar. I usually grab my 16-ounce wide-mouth jar—it holds the perfect amount of latte and just looks super cute. The handle also makes sipping a little easier on hot days.
If you’re going for something sleeker? Tall, clear glasses are where it’s at. I learned that after serving my iced cherry chai latte recipe in a regular coffee mug (rookie mistake). You want people to see that pinkish-tan swirl of cherries and chai—it’s too pretty to hide.
Pro tip: Chill your glass in the freezer for a few minutes before pouring. It keeps the drink colder longer and gives you that frosted-glass look.
Fun Presentation Ideas: Whipped Cream, Cinnamon Dust & Edible Flowers
Here’s where you can get creative. Want to turn your homemade iced cherry chai latte recipe into a drink that could pass for a $7 café special? Simple touches like a swirl of whipped cream or a light dusting of cinnamon on top work wonders.
I once added edible flowers (thanks, overpriced farmer’s market) and suddenly my drink looked wedding-level fancy. Totally optional, but if you’re hosting friends, it’s an easy wow factor.
Oh! And drizzling a bit of cherry syrup down the inside of the glass before pouring your drink? Insta-worthy hack that also amps up the flavor.
Perfect Occasions to Serve Iced Cherry Chai Latte Recipe
This drink screams summer. I love serving it during backyard brunches or those casual Sunday afternoons when friends drop by unannounced. But honestly? It’s also my secret weapon for summer parties. People are always like, “Wait… what’s in this?!”
Since the iced cherry chai latte recipe feels both indulgent and refreshing, it fits just about any occasion. I even sip mine as an afternoon pick-me-up when I’m tired of plain iced coffee. Zero regrets.
What to Pair With Your Cherry Chai?
If you’re making this latte, don’t stop there—pair it with something light and slightly sweet. My go-to pairings?
- Flaky pastries like almond croissants
- Crisp biscotti (dipped in the latte… so good)
- Fresh summer salads with strawberries or goat cheese
I once served this drink alongside mini lemon tarts and yeah, it was next-level good. The tartness of the lemon balanced out the cherry spice perfectly.
Now you know exactly how to craft the ultimate iced cherry chai latte recipe at home! Whether you’re cooling down after a hot day or entertaining friends, this sweet-spicy combo is a guaranteed hit.
Loved this recipe? Pin it on Pinterest and share the cherry chai love with your friends. Your perfect summer drink awaits—cheers!
FAQs About Iced Cherry Chai Latte Recipe
Can I use cherry juice instead of fresh cherries in my iced cherry chai latte recipe?
Technically, yes! But fresh or frozen cherries give a thicker, more natural flavor. Cherry juice tends to make the drink thinner and much sweeter, so if you use it, cut back on your sweetener.
Does the iced cherry chai latte recipe work with store-bought chai concentrate?
Absolutely. Just keep in mind that many chai concentrates are pre-sweetened, so you’ll want to reduce or skip any added honey or sugar in your recipe to avoid an overly sweet drink.
What’s the best milk to use in an iced cherry chai latte recipe?
Honestly, it’s all about personal taste. I love oat milk for its creaminess, but almond milk gives a nice nutty twist. Whole milk works if you want something richer and more traditional.
How sweet should my iced cherry chai latte recipe be?
Aim for slightly sweet, but not syrupy. I usually add 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup, then taste and adjust. If you’re using cherry syrup, go lighter to avoid overpowering the spices.
Can I make a vegan iced cherry chai latte recipe?
Yep! Just use a plant-based milk like oat, almond, or coconut milk and skip the honey (use maple syrup instead). Everything else stays the same.
Do I need to strain the cherry puree?
If you want a smoother drink, yes. I usually strain mine through a fine mesh sieve to catch any skins or pulp before mixing it into the chai. But hey, if you don’t mind a little texture, go rustic!
Is an iced cherry chai latte recipe healthy?
Compared to most coffeehouse drinks? Definitely. You’re getting antioxidants from the cherries and metabolism-boosting spices from the chai. Keep your sweetener low and use plant-based milk for an even healthier option.
How long does the cherry puree last?
I keep extra puree in the fridge for up to 3 days. It tends to separate, so just give it a stir before using.
Can I turn the iced cherry chai latte recipe into a frappuccino?
Oh yeah! Blend your chai, cherry puree, milk, and ice until slushy. I love topping it with whipped cream and a cinnamon sprinkle for a coffee-shop vibe.
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Totally. Brew a few cups of strong chai, blend a big batch of cherry puree, and mix it all in a pitcher. Just skip the ice until serving to avoid watering it down.
