Elevate your tea time with this delightful Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea! Combining the bold, aromatic flavors of Earl Grey tea with sweet, juicy cherries, creamy milk, and a hint of vanilla, this drink is a refreshing treat for both hot and iced tea lovers. Perfect for a cozy afternoon or a cooling summer sip, this recipe is as unique as it is easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A perfect balance of bold, sweet, and creamy flavors.
- Quick and easy to prepare in just 15 minutes.
- Works equally well as a hot or iced tea.
- Gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly.
- A fun twist on traditional milk tea, featuring fresh cherries and aromatic spices.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 Earl Grey tea bag
- 1 cup water
- 4 fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla syrup
- Ice (if making iced tea)
Directions
Step 1: Brew the Tea
- Heat the Water: Bring 1 cup of water to a boil.
- Steep the Tea: In a mug or small pot, steep the Earl Grey tea bag and cinnamon stick in the hot water for 5 minutes to infuse the flavors. Remove the tea bag and cinnamon stick after steeping.
Step 2: Prepare the Cherries
- Mash the Cherries: In a small bowl, mash the halved cherries with a fork to release their juices.
Step 3: Assemble the Milk Tea
- Combine the Cherries and Vanilla: Stir the mashed cherries and vanilla syrup into the brewed tea.
- Add the Milk: Warm the milk in a small saucepan or microwave (if serving hot), then stir it into the tea. For iced tea, skip warming the milk.
Step 4: Serve
- Hot Tea: Pour the tea into a mug and serve immediately.
- Iced Tea: Fill a glass with ice and pour the tea over it.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 1
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Vegan Option: Use almond, oat, or coconut milk instead of dairy milk.
- Sweeter Tea: Add an extra teaspoon of vanilla syrup or honey for more sweetness.
- Berry Blend: Replace cherries with raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries for a different fruity twist.
- Spiced Tea: Add a pinch of ground cardamom or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Bubble Tea: Include tapioca pearls for a boba-style milk tea experience.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: If making in advance, store the brewed tea and cherry mixture in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Add milk and ice just before serving.
- Reheating: Reheat the tea on the stovetop or in the microwave if serving hot.
FAQs
1. Can I use dried cherries instead of fresh?
Yes, soak dried cherries in hot water for 10 minutes to rehydrate before using.
2. What type of milk works best?
Any milk will work, but whole milk or oat milk provides a creamy texture.
3. Can I skip the cinnamon stick?
Yes, but the cinnamon adds a subtle warmth that enhances the tea’s flavor.
4. How do I make this tea sugar-free?
Omit the vanilla syrup or use a sugar-free alternative.
5. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Adjust the ingredients proportionally to serve more people.
6. What other teas can I use?
Black teas like English Breakfast or Chai work well, but Earl Grey’s citrus notes pair best with cherries.
7. Can I serve this tea cold without ice?
Yes, chill the brewed tea and cherry mixture in the refrigerator, then add cold milk before serving.
8. How do I make this drink caffeine-free?
Use decaffeinated Earl Grey tea for the same flavor without the caffeine.
9. Can I use cherry juice instead of fresh cherries?
Yes, substitute with 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cherry juice for convenience.
10. What pairs well with this tea?
Serve with pastries, scones, or a light fruit salad for a delightful treat.
Conclusion
Refreshing Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea is a unique and flavorful beverage that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served hot or iced, this tea blends the bold flavors of Earl Grey with the sweetness of cherries, creamy milk, and a hint of cinnamon. Try this easy recipe for a comforting twist on your tea routine!
Print
Refreshing Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Elevate your tea time with this Refreshing Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea! Combining juicy cherries, creamy milk, and the bold flavor of Earl Grey tea, this versatile recipe can be enjoyed hot or iced. Perfect for a refreshing treat or cozy moment!
Ingredients
Produce:
- 4 fresh cherries (pitted and halved)
- 1 Earl Grey tea bag
Condiments:
- 1 tsp vanilla syrup
Baking & Spices:
- 1 cinnamon stick
Dairy:
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
Frozen:
- Ice (optional, for iced tea)
Liquids:
- 1 cup water
Instructions
Prepare the Tea Base:
- Boil the Water:
- Heat 1 cup of water to a near boil (about 200°F/93°C).
- Brew the Tea:
- Add the Earl Grey tea bag and cinnamon stick to the hot water. Let steep for 3–5 minutes for a bold flavor.
Prepare the Cherry Mixture:
- Mash the Cherries:
- In a small saucepan, heat the halved cherries over medium heat until they soften (about 2–3 minutes). Mash the cherries lightly with a fork or spoon to release their juices.
- Combine with Tea:
- Strain the cherry mixture into the brewed tea to remove solids, or leave the mashed cherries for extra texture.
Add Milk and Sweetener:
- Warm the Milk:
- In a separate saucepan, gently heat the milk until warm (but do not boil).
- Combine:
- Add the warmed milk and vanilla syrup to the cherry tea mixture. Stir until well combined.
Serve:
- Hot Version:
- Pour the tea into a mug and garnish with an extra cherry or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Iced Version:
- Let the tea cool for 5 minutes, then pour over ice in a tall glass. Garnish with cherries and serve with a straw.
Notes
- Substitute vanilla syrup with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
- Use oat, almond, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- For a stronger cherry flavor, use cherry juice instead of fresh cherries.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Drinks, Tea
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion
