Iced Cherry Chai (Starbucks Copycat) Recipe

If there’s one drink that truly ushers in a mood of sweet nostalgia and cozy vibes while still feeling like a special treat, it’s the Iced Cherry Chai (Starbucks Copycat). Imagine the boldness of chai spices blended with luscious cherry syrup, all finished with a cloud of cherry cream cold foam and a sprinkle of tart freeze-dried cherries over ice. This drink brings a playful twist to your favorite café order, delivering creamy, spiced, and fruity notes in every sip. With just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients and a few minutes, you’re about to recreate a barista-level masterpiece at home—no drive-thru needed.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Iced Cherry Chai (Starbucks Copycat) is how a few simple ingredients create a drink that’s both layered and vibrant. Every component here plays a key role—whether it’s boosting the richness, adding a burst of cherry flavor, or perfecting the frothy finish.

• Heavy cream: Adds lushness and body to the cherry cream cold foam, making each sip creamy and luxurious.
• Cherry syrup: Brings that signature cherry sweetness and a pop of color you can’t miss.
• Whole milk: Helps lighten the cream, so your foam is silky without being heavy.
• Chai tea concentrate: Infuses the base with warming spices and bold tea notes, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
• Milk of choice (I used 2%): Gives the drink its creamy body, so pick what you love—dairy or non-dairy both work well.
• Freeze-dried cherries (crushed): These little jewels add tartness and a brilliant garnish—don’t skip them!
• Ice: Key for chilling the drink and giving that irresistible, frosty feel that seals the coffee shop experience.

How to Make Iced Cherry Chai (Starbucks Copycat)

Step 1: Whip Up the Cherry Cream Cold Foam

Start by adding the heavy cream, cherry syrup, and whole milk to a small glass or container. Use a handheld frother, electric whisk, or a little muscle with a jar and lid. You’re aiming for a thick, luscious foam—30 seconds is usually plenty—until it looks pillowy and the cherry color is swirling through. Set this dreamy topping aside while you build the drink.

Step 2: Build the Iced Cherry Chai

Fill a tall glass with plenty of ice. Pour in the chai tea concentrate and your chosen milk, letting the layers swirl together. This is where the spicy chai and creamy milk become instant best friends, making the foundation for your Iced Cherry Chai (Starbucks Copycat).

Step 3: Top and Finish with Cherry Foam and Cherries

Spoon the cherry cream cold foam right over your iced chai. It’ll float on top like a cloud, tempting you before you even take a sip. For the final touch, sprinkle crushed freeze-dried cherries over the foam—this brings a tart, fruity zing and a gorgeous pop of color. Enjoy immediately!

How to Serve Iced Cherry Chai (Starbucks Copycat)

Garnishes

Garnishing your Iced Cherry Chai (Starbucks Copycat) doesn’t just make it look café-fancy; it really completes the experience. A crown of cold foam and a scattering of crushed freeze-dried cherries make every glass feel special, while you can also add a pretty paper straw or a vintage cocktail pick for a little extra flair.

Side Dishes

Pair this refreshing drink with light, buttery pastries like almond croissants or delicate shortbread cookies. The gentle sweetness and crisp texture balance the creamy, spiced notes of your chai, making snack time feel entirely indulgent.

Creative Ways to Present

Set up a DIY iced chai bar for brunch or celebrations with bowls of different garnishes—think coconut flakes, extra cherries, and cinnamon sticks—letting guests personalize their own drink. Serve everything in pretty mason jars or stemless wine glasses for an effortless, Pinterest-worthy presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’ve made extra, store the chai and milk base in the fridge for up to 2 days in a covered jar. Keep the cherry cream cold foam separate and re-whip right before serving for the best results. Leftovers are safe for a little while, though the fresh foam is always the dreamiest.

Freezing

Freezing this drink isn’t recommended, as the texture of both the milk and the cold foam changes—becoming icy and separated instead of creamy. If you must, just freeze the chai concentrate in ice cube trays, then pop a few into your glass for a fun, flavor-boosting chill.

Reheating

Since this is an iced treat, you won’t need to reheat it, but if you want to repurpose leftovers, try blending the chai-milk mixture with a handful of ice for a frosty frappé feel. If you’re craving something warm, heat the chai and milk gently, then spoon on the cherry foam after heating.

FAQs

Can I use a plant-based milk or cream for the foam?

Absolutely! Swap dairy for thick, rich coconut cream or a barista-style oat or almond milk if you prefer. Some non-dairy milks may not froth quite as thickly as cream, but you’ll still get a fantastic, creamy topping with a cherry punch.

What’s the best cherry syrup to use?

Any high-quality store-bought cherry syrup works wonderfully, but if you want to get even more flavor (and skip artificial colors), try making a simple homemade cherry syrup with fresh or frozen cherries, sugar, and a splash of lemon juice.

Is there a way to make my own chai concentrate?

Yes—you can simmer strong black tea, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, black peppercorns, and a touch of honey or sugar. Strain and cool before using for the freshest, boldest spice in your Iced Cherry Chai (Starbucks Copycat).

Can I adjust the sweetness of the drink?

Definitely! For a less-sweet version, use a bit less cherry syrup or opt for unsweetened chai concentrate. Taste as you go—this drink is all about making it just right for you.

Do I need special equipment to froth the cream?

No fancy gear required! A handheld electric frother will make things easy, but a mini-whisk, tightly-closed jar (shake for one minute), or even a fork can do the trick if you don’t mind a quick arm workout.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about making this Iced Cherry Chai (Starbucks Copycat) in your own kitchen and watching the flavors swirl together before that first cold, creamy sip. Whether you make it for a quiet afternoon treat or serve it to friends, don’t be surprised if it becomes a new favorite. Give it a try—you’re in for a colorful, delicious surprise!

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