This Iced Cherry Chai (Starbucks Copycat) is the perfect spring treat, combining cozy spices with a refreshing cherry twist. This delightful drink is not only easy to make but also versatile for any occasion, whether you’re relaxing at home or entertaining friends. The homemade cherry cream cold foam adds a unique touch that elevates this classic chai into a vibrant and invigorating refresher.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor: The combination of rich chai spices and sweet cherry creates a delightful fusion that will tantalize your taste buds.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this refreshing drink in under five minutes.
Customizable: Feel free to adjust the milk type or sweetness level to suit your personal preferences.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s brunch, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a special gathering, this drink is sure to impress.
Homemade Cold Foam: Elevate your beverage with a creamy cherry foam that adds texture and flavor without any complicated techniques.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Iced Cherry Chai, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your preparation seamless and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Milk frother
Mixing glass
Measuring spoons
Serving glass

Importance of Each Tool

Milk frother: This handy tool helps you create the perfect cold foam quickly and easily, ensuring a delightful texture in your drink.
Mixing glass: A dedicated mixing glass allows for precise measurements and efficient mixing of ingredients, making the process smoother.

Ingredients

For the Cherry Cream Cold Foam

3 tbsp heavy cream
1 ½ tbsp cherry syrup
1 tbsp whole milk

For the Iced Cherry Chai

½ cup chai tea concentrate
½ cup milk of choice (I used 2%)
½ tsp freeze-dried cherries (crushed)
ice

How to Make Iced Cherry Chai (Starbucks Copycat)

Step 1: Make the Cherry Cream Cold Foam

In a small glass or container, combine 3 tbsp heavy cream, 1 ½ tbsp cherry syrup, and 1 tbsp whole milk.
Use a milk frother to whip the mixture for 20-30 seconds until it becomes light and fluffy. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Iced Cherry Chai

Fill a serving glass with ice.
Pour in ½ cup chai tea concentrate, followed by ½ cup milk of choice. Stir gently to combine.

Step 3: Assemble Your Drink

Top the iced chai latte with your prepared cherry cream cold foam.
Sprinkle with ½ tsp crushed freeze-dried cherries for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.
Enjoy your refreshing Iced Cherry Chai!

How to Serve Iced Cherry Chai (Starbucks Copycat)

Serving your Iced Cherry Chai (Starbucks Copycat) is an art. Whether it’s a casual afternoon treat or a centerpiece at a spring gathering, presenting this drink beautifully enhances the experience.

Garnish with Fresh Cherries

Add a few fresh cherries on top for a pop of color and added freshness.

Use Fun Glassware

Serve in clear glass mugs or tall glasses to showcase the vibrant layers of your iced chai and cherry cream cold foam.

Pair with Whipped Topping

For an indulgent touch, consider topping it with extra whipped cream before adding the cherry cold foam.

Include a Straw

Provide a colorful straw that matches the cherry theme for easy sipping and style.

How to Perfect Iced Cherry Chai (Starbucks Copycat)

Perfecting your Iced Cherry Chai involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure you nail this refreshing drink every time.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh cherries and quality chai concentrate for the best flavor.
Froth Cold Foam Well: Ensure your heavy cream is cold before frothing for the best texture.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste your cherry syrup before adding it; feel free to adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference.
Chill Your Glasses: Pre-chilling your serving glasses can keep your iced chai colder longer.
Experiment with Milk Options: Try different milk alternatives like oat or almond milk to find your favorite combination.

Best Side Dishes for Iced Cherry Chai (Starbucks Copycat)

Pairing side dishes with your Iced Cherry Chai can elevate your snack time. Here are some delightful options that complement its flavors perfectly.

Cherry Almond Scones – These buttery scones infused with cherry and almond make a sweet pairing.
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts – Light and fluffy donuts dusted in cinnamon sugar add a delightful crunch.
Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the creamy chai.
Granola Bars – Crunchy granola bars offer a nutty flavor that pairs well with the cherry notes.
Cheese Platter – A selection of mild cheeses alongside crackers creates an elegant touch.
Mini Quiches – Savory mini quiches filled with vegetables add balance to the sweetness of the chai.
Chocolate Chip Cookies – Classic cookies bring out the dessert-like quality of the drink.
Spiced Nuts – A handful of spiced nuts provides a crunchy, savory contrast to the sweet beverage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Iced Cherry Chai (Starbucks Copycat) can be easy. However, there are common mistakes that can affect your drink. Here are some tips to steer clear of them.

Using Unsweetened Milk: If you use unsweetened milk, your Iced Cherry Chai may taste bland. Opt for a milk with some sweetness to enhance the flavor.
Skipping the Cold Foam: Cold foam adds a creamy texture and rich flavor. Don’t skip it! Take the time to froth your cream and syrup for the best result.
Not Measuring Ingredients: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right balance in flavors. Always measure your chai concentrate and cherry syrup carefully.
Ignoring Ice Quality: The quality of ice can dilute your drink quickly. Use larger ice cubes or ice made from chilled tea instead of regular ice for less dilution.
Forgetting Garnish: A sprinkle of crushed freeze-dried cherries adds visual appeal and extra flavor. Always remember to garnish before serving!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store any leftover Iced Cherry Chai in an airtight container.
It will last for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Iced Cherry Chai (Starbucks Copycat)

You can freeze this drink for later enjoyment.
Store it in a freezer-safe container or bag, where it can last for up to 1 month.

Reheating Iced Cherry Chai (Starbucks Copycat)

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe mug for about 10 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe container for about 30-60 seconds, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Iced Cherry Chai (Starbucks Copycat).

Can I use other types of tea?

Yes! Feel free to substitute chai tea with any tea you enjoy, such as green or herbal varieties.

What can I use instead of cherry syrup?

You can use raspberry or strawberry syrup as alternatives if you want a different fruit flavor.

How do I make it vegan?

To make this drink vegan, replace heavy cream with coconut cream and use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.

Can I adjust the sweetness?

Absolutely! You can add more or less cherry syrup according to your taste preference.

How long does it take to prepare?

This delightful drink takes only about 3 minutes from start to finish!

Final Thoughts

The Iced Cherry Chai (Starbucks Copycat) is not just refreshing; it’s also versatile and simple to customize based on your taste. Whether you prefer more sweetness or different flavors, feel free to experiment with this recipe. Enjoy making this delightful drink at home!