Iced Cherry Chai Starbucks

This vibrant Iced Cherry Chai delivers the perfect balance of spicy chai and sweet cherry notes, creating a refreshing summer beverage that rivals your favorite coffee shop version. I perfected this copycat recipe after countless trips to Starbucks left my wallet feeling lighter, and now I can enjoy this luxurious drink anytime without leaving home.

I first created this recipe during a particularly hot summer when my chai cravings wouldn't subside despite the temperature. After experimenting with different flavor combinations, this cherry variation became an instant family favorite that we now enjoy year-round.

Ingredients

• Cherry Cream Cold Foam: Heavy cream provides the perfect texture for a silky smooth foam that floats beautifully on top
• Cherry syrup: Delivers authentic cherry flavor without being overpowering look for a high quality brand or make your own
• Whole milk: Adds richness while keeping the foam light enough to float
• Iced Cherry Chai: Chai tea concentrate offers convenience and consistency in flavor use Tazo or Oregon Chai for best results
• Milk of choice: Works with any variety from dairy to plant based options depending on dietary preferences
• Freeze dried cherries: Add visual appeal and intensify the cherry flavor choose vibrant red ones for best color

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Cherry Cream Cold Foam:

Combine heavy cream, cherry syrup, and whole milk in a small container. Use a handheld frother to whip the mixture for 20-30 seconds until it reaches a thick, velvety consistency. The cold foam should have soft peaks that hold their shape but still remain pourable. If using a regular whisk, extend whisking time to 1-2 minutes for proper aeration.

Assemble the Base Drink:

Fill a 16oz glass approximately 2/3 full with ice cubes. Large cubes are preferable as they melt more slowly and won't dilute your drink as quickly. Pour the chai tea concentrate over the ice, followed by your milk of choice. Do not stir at this point, as the natural pouring action will create an attractive layered effect.

Add the Finishing Touches:

Gently spoon the prepared cherry cream cold foam on top of the drink, allowing it to float on the surface. The foam should be approximately 1/2 inch thick. Sprinkle the crushed freeze-dried cherries over the foam surface immediately before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy. The vibrant red cherry dust will slowly integrate into the foam, creating both visual appeal and flavor enhancement.

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This drink has become my signature summer entertaining option. The freeze-dried cherries are truly the secret ingredient that makes everyone ask for my recipe. I discovered them while wandering through a specialty food store and have found countless uses for them beyond this drink the intense cherry flavor without added moisture makes them perfect for so many recipes.

Choosing the Right Chai Concentrate

The foundation of this drink rests on selecting a high quality chai concentrate. Look for options that list real spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger prominently in the ingredients list. Avoid concentrates with excessive added sugars, as the cherry syrup already provides sweetness. For a more robust spice profile, consider Oregon Chai Extra Spicy or Dona Chai concentrates. If making your own concentrate, steep black tea with whole spices like star anise, cinnamon sticks, and cardamom pods, then strain and refrigerate.

Dairy Free Adaptations

This recipe transforms beautifully into a dairy free treat with a few simple swaps. Replace the heavy cream with full fat coconut cream refrigerated overnight and skimmed from the top of the can. Substitute the whole milk with oat milk for the creamiest result, or almond milk for a lighter option. The cherry cold foam works especially well with coconut cream, which adds a subtle tropical note that complements the cherry flavor. If using a plant based barista blend milk, reduce the amount slightly as these tend to froth more aggressively.

Make It Your Own

Create endless variations by adjusting the flavor profile to suit your preferences. Add a shot of espresso for a dirty cherry chai with extra caffeine. Substitute the cherry syrup with raspberry, blackberry, or even lavender syrup for completely different flavor experiences. During autumn months, try adding a dash of pumpkin spice to the cold foam for a seasonal twist. For special occasions, a splash of amaretto liqueur transforms this into an elegant adult beverage perfect for brunches or afternoon gatherings.

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This refreshing treat will make you wonder why you ever paid coffee shop prices!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different milk for the cherry cold foam?

While whole milk gives the richest texture, you can substitute half-and-half or even non-dairy alternatives like coconut cream, though the foam may have a slightly different consistency.

→ Where can I find chai tea concentrate?

Chai tea concentrate is available at most grocery stores (like Tazo or Oregon brands), or you can make your own by brewing strong chai tea and adding sweetener to taste.

→ What can I substitute for freeze-dried cherries?

If freeze-dried cherries aren't available, you can use a sprinkle of cherry powder, a fresh cherry garnish, or simply omit this ingredient as the cherry flavor comes mainly from the syrup.

→ How do I make cherry syrup at home?

Combine 1 cup sugar, 1 cup water, and 1 cup pitted cherries in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes. Strain and cool before using.

→ Can I make this drink ahead of time?

You can prepare the cherry syrup in advance, but the cold foam and final drink are best made just before serving to maintain the proper texture and temperature.

→ What tool works best for creating the cold foam?

A handheld milk frother works perfectly for small quantities of cold foam. Alternatively, you can use a French press by pumping the plunger up and down rapidly to create foam.