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This lively Iced Cherry Chai blends zesty chai spices with sweet cherry touches for a cool summer drink that's better than what you'd buy at a café. I came up with this lookalike version after too many pricey Starbucks runs emptied my pockets, and now I get to sip this fancy drink at home whenever I want.
I first whipped up this drink during an unbearably hot summer when I couldn't shake my chai cravings despite the heat. After playing around with different flavor mixes, this cherry version quickly became our family's go-to refreshment that we enjoy in all seasons now.
Ingredients
- Cherry Cream Cold Foam: The fat in heavy cream creates that silky layer that sits prettily on top
- Cherry syrup: Brings true cherry taste without going overboard grab a good brand or try making it yourself
- Whole milk: Gives that creamy feel while keeping the foam airy enough to stay on top
- Iced Cherry Chai: Ready-made chai concentrate saves time and gives reliable flavor try brands like Tazo or Oregon Chai
- Milk of choice: Works with everything from regular cow's milk to any plant milk you prefer
- Freeze dried cherries: Makes the drink look amazing while boosting cherry flavor pick bright red ones for the best look
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix Up the Cherry Cream Cold Foam:
- Put heavy cream, cherry syrup, and whole milk together in a small cup. Whip it with a handheld frother for about 20-30 seconds until it turns thick and smooth. Your foam should form soft peaks that stay put but can still be poured. If you're using a regular whisk, you'll need to whip longer, about 1-2 minutes, to get enough air in there.
- Put Together the Main Drink:
- Take a 16oz glass and fill it about 2/3 with ice. Bigger ice cubes work better since they melt slower and won't water down your drink. Pour chai tea concentrate over the ice, then add your favorite milk. Don't stir it yet – just pouring it this way makes a cool layered look.
- Top It Off:
- Carefully spoon your cherry cream cold foam on top of the drink so it floats nicely. You want about 1/2 inch of foam on top. Sprinkle crushed freeze-dried cherries over the foam right before you drink it so they don't get soggy. The bright red cherry bits will slowly sink into the foam, making it look pretty while adding more flavor.
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This drink has become my go-to when friends come over in summer. Those freeze-dried cherries are really the magic touch that makes everyone ask how I made it. I found them while browsing a fancy food store and now use them in so many things beyond this drink their strong cherry flavor without adding moisture makes them perfect for lots of recipes.
Picking the Best Chai Concentrate
Getting a good chai concentrate really makes or breaks this drink. Go for brands that actually list real spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger near the top of their ingredients. Stay away from ones with tons of added sugar since the cherry syrup already makes it sweet. If you want stronger spice flavors, try Oregon Chai Extra Spicy or Dona Chai brands. You can also make your own by steeping black tea with whole spices like star anise, cinnamon sticks, and cardamom pods, then strain it and keep it in the fridge.
Dairy Free Adaptations
You can easily turn this into a dairy free treat with a few quick swaps. Use full fat coconut cream that's been in the fridge overnight instead of heavy cream just skim the thick stuff off the top. Replace whole milk with oat milk for the creamiest result, or try almond milk if you want something lighter. The cherry cold foam works really well with coconut cream, which adds a hint of tropical flavor that goes great with cherry. If you're using those special barista plant milks, use a bit less since they tend to foam up more.
Make It Your Own
You can switch things up in so many ways to match what you like. Add some espresso for a dirty cherry chai with more caffeine kick. Try swapping cherry syrup with raspberry, blackberry, or even lavender syrup for totally different flavors. In fall, throw in some pumpkin spice to the cold foam for a seasonal touch. For grown-up parties, a splash of amaretto turns this into a fancy boozy drink that's perfect for brunches or afternoon get-togethers.
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This cool treat will have you wondering why you ever paid coffee shop prices!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I swap the milk for foam-making?
Whole milk creates the fluffiest texture, but half-and-half or plant-based creams like coconut can work too. Just note the foaminess might differ a little.
- → Where do I find chai tea concentrate?
You can grab chai concentrate from most grocery aisles (popular brands like Tazo or Oregon), or make your own with strong-brewed chai tea and sweetener.
- → What replaces freeze-dried cherries?
No freeze-dried cherries? No problem! Use powdered cherries, top with a fresh cherry, or simply skip it since the cherry syrup sets the flavor.
- → How do I make cherry syrup myself?
Mix equal parts water and sugar (1 cup each) with 1 cup pitted cherries. Simmer after boiling for 15 minutes, strain, and let it chill before using.
- → Is this drink okay to make ahead?
Cherry syrup can be made early, but for the best taste and texture, prepare the foam and finish the drink fresh when ready to serve.
- → Which tool froths the foam best?
A handheld frother works great for frothing small foam batches. A French press can also do the trick—just pump quickly until the foam fluffs up.