Cool off with Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea, a delightful summer drink that blends the floral notes of Earl Grey tea with sweet-tart cherries and creamy milk. This easy-to-make beverage is perfect for hot summer days, offering a refreshing iced option or a cozy hot version for cooler evenings. With simple ingredients and a quick prep time, this Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea is ideal for picnics, brunches, or relaxing afternoons. Follow our recipe to create this vibrant summer drink that’s sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea Recipe
This Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea is a standout summer drink, combining unique flavors with effortless preparation. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- Quick and Simple: Ready in under 15 minutes, perfect for a refreshing summer drink on the go.
- Unique Flavor: Floral Earl Grey meets sweet-tart cherries for a delightful twist.
- Hot or Iced: Enjoy it chilled for summer or warm for cozy moments.
- Creamy Yet Light: Creamy milk balances the tea’s boldness for a satisfying sip.
- Versatile: Ideal for brunches, parties, or a relaxing summer drink at home.
Ingredients for Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea
To make this Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea (serves 2), gather these ingredients:
- 2 Earl Grey tea bags (or 2 tsp loose leaf Earl Grey tea)
- 1 cup hot water (for hot tea) or 1 cup cold water (for iced tea)
- 1/4 cup fresh cherries, pitted and chopped (or 2 tbsp cherry juice/syrup)
- 1–2 tbsp honey (or sugar, to taste)
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond, oat, or coconut)
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
- Ice cubes (for iced tea)
- Optional garnish: Whole cherries or mint sprigs
Ingredient Tips:
- Earl Grey Tea: Use high-quality tea bags or loose leaf for the best floral flavor in this summer drink.
- Cherries: Fresh cherries create a vibrant syrup; jarred cherries or cherry juice are convenient alternatives.
- Milk: Full-fat dairy or oat milk adds creaminess; choose non-dairy for a vegan Milk Tea.
- Sweetener: Honey complements the cherries, but sugar or agave syrup works well too.
How to Make Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea
Follow these steps to create a refreshing Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea:
- Brew the Tea: For hot tea: Steep 2 Earl Grey tea bags in 1 cup hot water (just below boiling) for 3-5 minutes. Remove tea bags and set aside. For iced tea: Steep tea bags in 1 cup cold water and refrigerate for 2 hours, or use hot-brewed tea cooled to room temperature.
- Prepare the Cherry Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup chopped fresh cherries and 1–2 tbsp honey (or sugar). Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until the cherries break down into a syrupy consistency. Strain if desired for a smoother texture. Alternatively, use 2 tbsp store-bought cherry juice or syrup and sweeten to taste.
- Combine Tea and Syrup: For hot tea: Stir 1 tbsp cherry syrup into the brewed tea (adjust to taste). Divide between two mugs. For iced tea: Pour cooled tea into two glasses filled with ice. Add 1 tbsp cherry syrup per glass and stir well.
- Add Milk and Flavor: Pour 1/4 cup milk into each glass or mug. For hot tea, warm the milk first for a creamier texture. Add 1/8 tsp vanilla extract per serving (if using) and stir gently.
- Sweeten and Serve: Taste and add more honey or sugar if desired. For hot tea, serve immediately in mugs. For iced tea, garnish with whole cherries or a mint sprig for a vibrant summer drink.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook/Chill Time: 5-7 minutes (hot) or 2 hours (iced)
Total Time: 15 minutes (hot) or 2 hours 15 minutes (iced)
Calories: ~150 per serving (based on 2 servings, with dairy milk)
Servings: 2
Macros per Serving: 25g carbs, 2g protein, 4g fat, 1g fiber
Tips for Perfect Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea
- Steep Carefully: Don’t over-steep Earl Grey to avoid bitterness; 3-5 minutes is ideal for this summer drink.
- Adjust Sweetness: Start with 1 tbsp cherry syrup and add more for a sweeter Tea.
- Chill for Iced Tea: Cool brewed tea completely before adding ice to prevent dilution.
- Creamy Texture: Warm or froth milk for hot tea to enhance the luxurious feel of this summer drink.
- Fresh Garnishes: Add cherries or mint just before serving for a vibrant, summery presentation.
Creative Variations for Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea
Customize this Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea with these ideas:
- Dairy-Free: Use almond, oat, or coconut milk for a vegan summer drink.
- Berry Swap: Replace cherries with raspberries or strawberries for a different berry twist.
- Boba Boost: Add cooked tapioca pearls for a fun, chewy Milk Tea experience.
- Spiced Notes: Include a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for warmth in this summer drink.
- Lavender Touch: Add a splash of lavender syrup for an extra floral note.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
This Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea is a versatile summer drink that elevates any moment. Try these serving suggestions:
- Serve iced in tall glasses with colorful straws for a refreshing summer party vibe.
- Pair with shortbread cookies, scones, or a slice of lemon cake for a delightful afternoon tea.
- Present hot in elegant mugs with a cherry garnish for a cozy summer drink experience.
- Offer alongside a light salad or sandwich for a balanced summer brunch.
- Add whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a dessert-like Milk Tea.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store brewed tea and cherry syrup separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: For hot tea, gently warm the tea and milk on the stovetop or microwave; avoid boiling.
- Iced Option: Combine chilled tea, syrup, and milk over ice for a quick summer drink the next day.
- Avoid Freezing: Freezing alters the tea’s flavor and milk’s texture, so it’s not recommended.
- Refresh: Add a fresh splash of milk or a cherry garnish to revive leftovers.
FAQs About Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea
Can I use a different tea for this summer drink?
Yes, black tea, chai, or green tea can replace Earl Grey for a unique Cherry Milk Tea flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely, brew the tea and make the cherry syrup up to 2 days in advance; combine when ready to serve.
How do I make this summer drink sweeter?
Add more honey, sugar, or a flavored syrup like vanilla or caramel to enhance sweetness.
Can I add boba to this Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea?
Yes, cooked tapioca pearls add a fun, chewy texture; add them to the bottom of iced tea glasses.
What’s a good milk substitute?
Almond, oat, or coconut milk work well for a dairy-free summer drink with great flavor.
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Conclusion
This Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea is a refreshing and flavorful summer drink that combines the elegance of Earl Grey with the vibrant taste of cherries. Perfect for sipping iced on a hot day or warm for a cozy evening, this easy recipe is sure to become a favorite. Make it today and enjoy the delightful, creamy goodness of this unique summer drink!

Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea
Ingredients
- 2 Earl Grey tea bags or 2 tsp loose leaf Earl Grey tea
- 1 cup hot water for hot tea or 1 cup cold water (for iced tea)
- 1/4 cup fresh cherries pitted and chopped (or 2 tbsp cherry juice/syrup)
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar, to taste
- 1/2 cup milk dairy or non-dairy like almond, oat, or coconut
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract optional, for extra flavor
- Ice cubes for iced tea
- Optional garnish: Whole cherries or mint sprigs
Instructions
- Brew the Tea: For hot tea: Steep 2 Earl Grey tea bags in 1 cup hot water (just below boiling) for 3-5 minutes. Remove tea bags and set aside. For iced tea: Steep tea bags in 1 cup cold water and refrigerate for 2 hours, or use hot-brewed tea cooled to room temperature.
- Prepare the Cherry Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup chopped fresh cherries and 1–2 tbsp honey (or sugar). Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until the cherries break down into a syrupy consistency. Strain if desired for a smoother texture. Alternatively, use 2 tbsp store-bought cherry juice or syrup and sweeten to taste.
- Combine Tea and Syrup: For hot tea: Stir 1 tbsp cherry syrup into the brewed tea (adjust to taste). Divide between two mugs. For iced tea: Pour cooled tea into two glasses filled with ice. Add 1 tbsp cherry syrup per glass and stir well.
- Add Milk and Flavor: Pour 1/4 cup milk into each glass or mug. For hot tea, warm the milk first for a creamier texture. Add 1/8 tsp vanilla extract per serving (if using) and stir gently.
- Sweeten and Serve: Taste and add more honey or sugar if desired. For hot tea, serve immediately in mugs. For iced tea, garnish with whole cherries or a mint sprig for a vibrant summer drink.
Notes
- Steep Carefully: Don’t over-steep Earl Grey to avoid bitterness; 3-5 minutes is ideal for this summer drink.
- Adjust Sweetness: Start with 1 tbsp cherry syrup and add more for a sweeter Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea.
- Chill for Iced Tea: Cool brewed tea completely before adding ice to prevent dilution.
- Creamy Texture: Warm or froth milk for hot tea to enhance the luxurious feel of this summer drink.
- Fresh Garnishes: Add cherries or mint just before serving for a vibrant, summery presentation.
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