As I sipped my first cup of Iced Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea, I found myself transported to a sun-drenched patio, surrounded by the gentle rustle of leaves. This refreshing drink is a delightful blend of bold Earl Grey tea, sweet cherries, and creamy milk, making it the perfect comfort drink for both hot summer afternoons and cozy evenings at home. One of the best parts? It’s incredibly simple to make and absolutely versatile; you can enjoy it hot or cold, fitting every mood. The subtle combination of fruity notes and a touch of vanilla creates a creamy indulgence that’s way more satisfying than yet another fast food stop. Ready to infuse your tea time with something truly special? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why choose Iced Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea?
Refreshing Bliss: This Iced Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea is the ultimate refreshing treat that combines the bold notes of Earl Grey with juicy cherries, perfect for hot summer days.
Simplistic Elegance: With a straightforward recipe, you’ll impress family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile Enjoyment: Whether you enjoy it hot or over ice, this drink adapts to your preferences, making it ideal for any occasion.
Creamy Indulgence: The addition of milk creates a smooth, creamy texture that elevates this drink beyond typical iced teas.
Sweet Customization: Adjust the sweetness with vanilla syrup to fit your taste, giving you total control over flavor.
Brighten your day with a comfort drink that’s not only easy to make but also deliciously rewarding.
Iced Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea Ingredients
Unlock the secrets to a refreshing delight!
For the Tea Base
- Earl Grey tea bag (or loose leaf) – Provides a robust flavor with citrusy bergamot notes; a high-quality tea enhances the taste.
- Water – Essential for steeping the tea; the amount can be adjusted based on desired strength.
For the Cherry Infusion
- Fresh cherries (pitted and halved) – The primary flavor contributor, offering juicy sweetness; ripe cherries yield the best flavor.
- Ice (for iced version) – Chills the drink perfectly, giving it that refreshing finish on a hot day.
For Creaminess
- Milk (any type) – Adds creaminess and smoothness; options include dairy, almond, or oat milk for varying flavors.
- Vanilla syrup – Introduces sweetness and a warm note; adjust to your taste, as this enhances the cherry flavor.
Optional Add-Ins
- Cinnamon stick – Infuses a subtle spice into the drink; perfect for those who enjoy warm aromatic flavors.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Iced Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea
Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Mixture
In a small saucepan, combine the fresh pitted and halved cherries with 2 tablespoons of water. Heat on low for about 3-5 minutes, letting the cherries soften until they release their juices. Gently mash them with a fork to enhance the flavor, creating a vibrant cherry infusion ready for your Iced Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea.
Step 2: Brew the Earl Grey Tea
While the cherries simmer, bring 1 cup of water to a boil in a separate pot. Once boiling, remove it from heat and steep the Earl Grey tea bag or loose leaf for 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on the color deepening; once it reaches a rich amber hue, remove the tea bag or strain out the leaves, ensuring a robust, flavorful tea base for your refreshing drink.
Step 3: Heat the Milk
Incorporate the creamy element by adding your choice of milk to the cherry mix in the saucepan. Stir continuously over low heat until the milk is warmed through but not boiling, about 2-3 minutes. If desired, toss in a cinnamon stick for an aromatic twist. This creamy cherry blend will elevate your Iced Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea, making it smooth and indulgent.
Step 4: Sweeten to Taste
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1-2 teaspoons of vanilla syrup, adjusting according to your preferred sweetness level. This delicious addition enhances the cherry and tea flavors, ensuring your Iced Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea is just the right amount of indulgent, with a rich and sweet harmony.
Step 5: Combine and Strain
In a large mug, pour the brewed Earl Grey tea, then strain the cherry-milk mixture into the same mug. Use a fine mesh strainer to capture the cherries, pressing them gently to extract all the juice. Stir the mixture well to blend the flavors harmoniously, resulting in a beautifully balanced drink.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
If you prefer your Iced Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea cold, let the mixture cool for a few minutes before pouring it over a glass filled with ice. Serve immediately for the freshest taste, and consider garnishing with a whole cherry or a sprinkle of cinnamon to add a lovely touch to your refreshing treat.
How to Store and Freeze Iced Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea
Fridge: Keep any leftover Iced Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. This preserves its refreshing taste and creamy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, pour the tea into an ice cube tray and freeze. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag for up to 2 months—perfect for blending into smoothies or drinks later.
Reheating (if enjoyed hot): While it’s best enjoyed cold, if desired, slightly warm your stored tea on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of fresh milk to restore creaminess and flavor.
Enjoy Fresh: This delicious iced tea is at its best when freshly made, so try to consume your prepared Iced Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea within a few days to truly savor all its fruity and creamy delights.
Make Ahead Options
These Iced Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea preparations are perfect for busy days when you need something delightful waiting for you! You can prepare the cherry mixture and the tea base up to 24 hours in advance. Simply simmer the fresh cherries with water, mash them lightly, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Brew the Earl Grey tea, cool it, and keep it in a separate container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply warm the cherry mixture with milk, sweeten it to your liking with vanilla syrup, combine it with the tea, pour over ice, and you’ll have a refreshing treat just as delicious as if made fresh. Enjoy your vibrant, delightful drink without the last-minute hassle!
What to Serve with Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea
Elevate your tea experience by pairing this delightful drink with complementary flavors and textures that enhance each sip.
- Savory Scones: These buttery, flaky delights are perfect for soaking up the flavors of your Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea, making every bite a comforting treat.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy brie or tangy goat cheese pairs wonderfully with the fruity notes, creating a delightful balance that excites the palate.
- Light Salad: A fresh arugula salad with sliced strawberries and a drizzle of balsamic glaze adds brightness and complements the sweet cherry infusion beautifully.
- Chocolate Croissant: Indulge your sweet tooth with a flaky chocolate croissant; the rich chocolate and buttery pastry harmonize with the tea’s creamy essence.
- Lemon Tart: The zesty sweetness of lemon tart refreshes the palate and provides a perfect contrast to the rich, smooth flavors of the milk tea.
- Chilled Sparkling Water: Keep it light with sparkling water infused with mint or lemon; it refreshes between sips, making for an invigorating drink experience.
- Mini Fruit Tarts: These little bites of joy, filled with custard and topped with fresh fruits, mirror the tea’s fruity profile while providing a lovely texture contrast.
- Shortbread Cookies: Their buttery crispness and subtle sweetness make shortbread cookies the ideal accompaniment for dipping into your comforting drink.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream will add a creamy touch and a delightful chill to the experience, enhancing all the flavors together.
Iced Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea Variations
Customize your Iced Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea and make it your own with these fun twists!
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Non-Dairy Delight: Use almond or soy milk instead of regular milk for a creamy, dairy-free version that’s just as delicious. A nutty undertone will add an intriguing layer to your drink.
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Fruity Fusion: Try swapping fresh cherries for other berries like strawberries or raspberries. Each fruit offers a unique sweetness that changes the drink’s flavor profile beautifully.
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Spiced Warmth: Add a dash of nutmeg or cardamom when heating the milk for a spiced version that complements the bergamot notes perfectly. This will bring a warming essence, ideal for cooler days.
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Iced Teas Galore: Experiment with different types of tea like jasmine or chamomile. This will impart its unique floral notes while keeping the drink refreshing and light.
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Herbal Infusion: Include fresh mint leaves in the cherry mixture for a refreshing twist. The mint’s coolness will uplift the fruity flavors and make each sip extra refreshing.
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Sweetness Control: Adjust the sweetness with honey or maple syrup instead of vanilla syrup. This gives a natural touch and enhances the overall flavor.
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Citrus Zing: Add a splash of fresh lemon or orange juice for a zesty kick that balances the sweetness of the cherries beautifully. It brightens the drink, making it perfect for summer.
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Chilled Dessert: Blend the Iced Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea with ice to create a slushy version. Top it with whipped cream for a delightful dessert treat that feels indulgent and refreshing.
Explore these variations to find your perfect blend that makes tea time even more special! If time allows, consider pairing your drink with some delightful homemade scones or biscuits—it’s the perfect complement to this indulgent tea experience.
Expert Tips for Iced Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea
- Quality Tea Matters: Use a high-quality Earl Grey tea with strong bergamot flavor for depth; this elevates your iced tea experience significantly.
- Sweetness Balance: Start with less vanilla syrup and gradually increase; too much can overwhelm the subtle cherry and tea flavors in your iced Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea.
- Fresh is Best: Choose ripe cherries for their natural sweetness and robust flavor; underripe cherries can lead to a less satisfying drink.
- Cooling Time: Allow your cherry-milk mixture to cool slightly before pouring over ice to prevent dilution and maintain the creaminess of your drink.
- Alternative Milks: Experiment with different types of milk, such as almond or oat, for a unique twist on flavor and nutrition in your iced tea.
Iced Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea Recipe FAQs
What type of cherries should I use for the Iced Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea?
I recommend using fresh, ripe Bing cherries as they provide the sweetest and most robust flavor. Look for cherries that are dark and plump without any bruises or dark spots. If fresh cherries aren’t available, frozen cherries can also work as a substitute in a pinch!
How long can I store leftover Iced Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea?
You can refrigerate any leftover tea in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. However, to enjoy the best flavor and texture, I recommend consuming it as fresh as possible. When stored properly, it stays refreshing and creamy for those couple of days!
Can I freeze Iced Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea?
Absolutely! Pour the prepared tea into an ice cube tray and freeze. Once frozen, transfer the tea cubes to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. This is a fun way to add Cherry Earl Grey flavor to smoothies or chill future drinks without watering them down!
What if my Iced Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea turns out too sweet?
If you find your tea is a bit on the sweet side, don’t worry! You can balance the flavors by adding a bit more brewed Earl Grey tea or a splash of unsweetened milk. If you prefer, a squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten up the flavors and cut through the sweetness.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes, this Iced Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea can easily accommodate various dietary preferences. If you’re avoiding dairy, simply substitute regular milk with almond, oat, or soy milk. Plus, you can control the sweetness by adjusting the amount of vanilla syrup; feel free to use sugar-free alternatives for those looking to reduce sugar intake.
Chill Out with Iced Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine fresh pitted and halved cherries with 2 tablespoons of water in a saucepan. Heat on low for 3-5 minutes, gently mash to create a cherry infusion.
- In a separate pot, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Steep the Earl Grey tea bag for 3-5 minutes until amber, then remove.
- Add milk to the cherry mixture and heat gently for 2-3 minutes. Optionally add a cinnamon stick.
- Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of vanilla syrup to the cherry-milk mix, adjusting sweetness as desired.
- Strain the cherry-milk mixture into the brewed tea using a fine mesh strainer.
- Let cool slightly before serving over ice in a glass. Garnish as desired.