Starbucks Copycat Iced Cherry Chai Latte
There’s something utterly magical about the first sip of a refreshing iced beverage on a warm afternoon. It transports you back to sun-drenched days, whether you’re lounging on a patio with friends or savoring a quiet moment on your own. Today, I’m excited to share with you my Starbucks Copycat Iced Cherry Chai Latte—a creamy, dreamy treat that marries the bold spices of chai tea with the sweet tang of cherry syrup. This delightful drink is perfect for those golden summer days or whenever you need a cozy moment in your life. With its vibrant flavors and luscious textures, it’s an easy weeknight treat that you’ll want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make—perfect for a busy day!
- A delightful fusion of spicy chai and sweet cherry flavors.
- Completely customizable to suit your taste preferences.
- Ideal for serving at summer get-togethers or simply enjoying on a quiet afternoon.
- Great for both kids and adults—garnish with or without whipped cream for a family-friendly twist.
What You’ll Need
To create your very own Starbucks Copycat Iced Cherry Chai Latte, gather these simple ingredients:
- 1 cup brewed chai tea
- 1/2 cup milk (or milk alternative)
- 1/4 cup cherry syrup
- Ice
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Maraschino cherries for garnish (optional)
How to Make Starbucks Copycat Iced Cherry Chai Latte
Let’s make it together! Follow these simple steps for a refreshing iced cherry chai latte that will brighten your day:
- Brew the chai tea according to package instructions and let it cool. The aroma of the spices will fill your kitchen, creating a wonderfully cozy atmosphere.
- In a glass, combine the cooled chai tea, milk, and cherry syrup. The lovely pink hue will start to emerge, making this drink look as delightful as it tastes!
- Stir well to mix all ingredients. Enjoy the sweet scent of cherries mingling with the warm spices of chai.
- Fill a glass with ice and pour the mixture over the ice. Feel the chill as the drink cascades over the cubes, making it even more refreshing.
- Top with whipped cream if desired, making it feel indulgent and luxurious. A swirl of whipped cream just makes everything better, don’t you think?
- Garnish with maraschino cherries for a fun pop of color and a sweet treat! Enjoy your refreshing iced cherry chai latte—every sip is a burst of joy!
Delicious Variations to Try
While the classic version of this iced cherry chai latte is fantastic, don’t hesitate to get a little creative! Here are some ideas for variations that will elevate your drink even further:
- Coconut Cherry Chai: Substitute regular milk with coconut milk for a tropical twist that’s creamy and indulgent.
- Zesty Citrus Chai: Add a splash of orange or lemon juice to the mix for a bright, zesty kick.
- Mocha Cherry Chai: Mix in a tablespoon of cocoa powder or chocolate syrup for a rich mocha flavor that’s simply delectable.
- Almond Cherry Chai: Use almond milk and drizzle a bit of almond extract for a delightful nutty aroma and creamy texture.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
To help you perfect your iced cherry chai latte, here are some of my best kitchen secrets:
- Make Ahead: Brew a big batch of chai tea and refrigerate it for quick access throughout the week. This makes your iced latte even easier to whip up!
- Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality chai tea bags or loose leaf and pure cherry syrup.
- Experiment with Toppings: If you love texture, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed nuts on top of the whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
- Storage Suggestions: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld!
Nutrition Information per Serving
Here’s a quick nutritional breakdown of this delightful beverage:
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: Approximately 270
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Sugar: 28g
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 100mg
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Brew your chai tea in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Combine it with the other ingredients right before serving. -
Can I use different ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different milk alternatives, flavored syrups, or spices to create a version that suits your taste. -
How do I store leftovers?
Pour any leftover iced cherry chai latte into an airtight container and refrigerate. Use it within two days for the best flavor. -
How long does it last?
Consuming your iced cherry chai latte within a couple of days ensures the best taste, but past that, it may still be good. Just check for freshness before enjoying!
Wrapping It Up
This Starbucks Copycat Iced Cherry Chai Latte is a lovely way to brighten your day and indulge in comforting flavors that warm your heart. Its creamy texture and refreshing notes of cherry are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself. Save this iced cherry chai latte to your recipe board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat! I promise it’s one you’ll come back to time and time again. Happy sipping!
Iced Cherry Chai Latte
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup brewed chai tea Brewed according to package instructions and cooled
- 1/2 cup milk (or milk alternative) Customize with your choice of milk
- 1/4 cup cherry syrup Use high-quality cherry syrup for best flavor
- to taste cubes Ice For serving
- optional Whipped cream For topping if desired
- optional Maraschino cherries For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Brew the chai tea according to package instructions and let it cool.
- In a glass, combine the cooled chai tea, milk, and cherry syrup.
- Stir well to mix all ingredients.
Serving
- Fill a glass with ice and pour the mixture over the ice.
- Top with whipped cream if desired.
- Garnish with maraschino cherries and enjoy.
