Name: Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Tea Culture
Ingredients: 4-5 fresh cherries, pitted and halved; 2 tablespoons water; 1 cinnamon stick (optional); 1 Earl Grey tea bag (or 1 tsp loose leaf Earl Grey tea); 1 cup water; 1/2 cup milk (dairy, almond, oat, etc.); 1-2 tsp vanilla syrup, to taste; Ice (optional for iced version)

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Introduction

This Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, blending the floral notes of Earl Grey with fresh cherry sweetness and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for a cozy warm drink or a refreshing iced treat.

A clear glass cup filled with a layered drink sits on a white plate, all placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a light brown tea, topped by a thick white foam layer. On top of the foam, there are three shiny red cherries and a cinnamon stick standing upright, along with some star anise. Around the cup on the plate, there are more cherries and star anise. Soft pink flowers are in the blurry background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4-5 fresh cherries, pitted and halved
2 tablespoons water
1 cinnamon stick (optional)
1 Earl Grey tea bag (or 1 tsp loose leaf Earl Grey tea)
1 cup water
1/2 cup milk (dairy, almond, oat, etc.)
1-2 tsp vanilla syrup, to taste
Ice (optional for iced version)

Instructions

Step 1: In a small saucepan, combine the pitted and halved cherries with 2 tablespoons of water and the cinnamon stick if using. Simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, mashing the cherries to release their flavor.
Step 2: Meanwhile, bring 1 cup of water to a boil and steep the Earl Grey tea bag or loose tea for 3-5 minutes. Strain to remove the leaves or tea bag.
Step 3: Heat the milk in a separate pan along with the cherry mixture and vanilla syrup until warmed through. Remove the cinnamon stick before combining.
Step 4: Pour the warmed cherry milk mixture into the brewed Earl Grey tea and stir gently to combine.
Step 5: Serve the milk tea hot or pour over ice for a chilled version. Optionally garnish with a fresh cherry or a cinnamon stick for added aroma.

Tips & Variations

For a richer texture, use full-fat milk or a creamy alternative like oat milk.
Adjust the vanilla syrup to your preferred sweetness or substitute with honey or maple syrup.
Skip the cinnamon stick if you prefer a purer cherry and bergamot flavor.
For extra fruity notes, add a splash of cherry juice along with the fresh fruit.

Storage

Store any leftover Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well before serving. If iced, prepare fresh for best flavor and texture.

How to Serve

Two tall clear glasses filled with a three-layered cherry drink are shown on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a dark red cherry syrup with bits of fruit, the middle layer is a swirled mix of light pink and white, giving a creamy effect, and the top layer is crushed ice with a hint of pink tint from the syrup. Each glass is garnished with large, dark red cherries with stems sticking out above the ice and has a light brown straw placed on the side. More fresh cherries are scattered around the glasses on the surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen cherries will work well. Simply thaw them before simmering and adjust the water amount if needed to maintain the desired consistency.

Is it possible to make this vegan?

Absolutely! Use a plant-based milk such as almond, oat, or soy, and check that your vanilla syrup is vegan-friendly or substitute with a natural sweetener like maple syrup.