Sip the beauty of spring with this creamy Sakura Latte—a cozy and caffeine-free Japanese drink made with cherry blossom powder, milk, and honey. Topped with whipped cream, this dreamy pink spring drink is sweet, floral, and absolutely enchanting. Whether you’re trying the classic version, a matcha Sakura latte, or a Starbucks-inspired Sakura drink with strawberry syrup, this easy recipe brings the elegance of cherry blossoms right to your cup. Perfect for spring brunches, cozy evenings, or just a touch of seasonal magic!
What Is a Sakura Latte?
A Sakura Latte is a traditional Japanese drink enjoyed during cherry blossom season (also known as hanami). It features a blend of steamed milk and cherry blossom powder or extract, giving the drink a soft floral aroma and signature pale pink hue. The flavor is subtle—lightly sweet with gentle notes of flower petals and a whisper of saltiness, thanks to how cherry blossoms are traditionally preserved in Japan.
While this version is not an exact replica of what you’ll find in Japanese cafés or Starbucks Japan, it’s a cozy, approachable way to bring a touch of cherry blossom season into your kitchen.
What Does Sakura Latte Taste Like?
Unlike what the name might suggest, Sakura Latte doesn’t taste like cherries. Instead, it offers a delicate floral flavor with a lightly sweet and slightly salty finish. This unique combination comes from pickled cherry blossoms, which are often cured with salt and plum vinegar to preserve their color and fragrance.
This is definitely a drink for floral lovers. If you’re a fan of lavender lattes or rose-infused drinks, you’ll appreciate the elegant complexity of this pink latte.
Ingredients for the Perfect Sakura Latte
You only need a few simple ingredients to make this beautiful Japanese drink at home:
- Sakura powder – Made from freeze-dried cherry blossoms and cherry leaves, it brings that iconic floral aroma and gentle pink tint.
- Milk – Whole milk adds creaminess, but any milk (2%, skim, oat, almond) works just fine.
- Honey – Sweetens the latte naturally. You can also use maple syrup or agave.
- Heavy cream (optional) – For a luscious whipped topping. A few seconds of whisking makes it light and frothy.
- Dried Sakura powder – For garnish (optional, but oh so pretty!).
🌸 Tip: Can’t find Sakura powder? Look for it online or at specialty Japanese grocery stores.
How to Make a Sakura Latte (Step-by-Step)
This homemade Sakura Latte comes together in less than 10 minutes! Here’s how:
1: Heat the Milk
Pour your milk into a small saucepan and add the Sakura powder. Warm it gently over medium heat until it begins to steam, whisking constantly so the powder dissolves fully. Taste as you go! If you’d like a stronger floral flavor, add an extra teaspoon of Sakura powder.
2: Sweeten the Latte
Remove the milk from heat and stir in your sweetener—start with a tablespoon of honey and adjust to your liking.
3: Whip the Cream
Add cold heavy cream to a small bowl and froth it using a whisk or milk frother. You’re not looking for stiff peaks—just soft, fluffy foam.
4: Assemble Your Latte
Pour the warm Sakura-infused milk into a mug.
Top with a spoonful of whipped cream and sprinkle extra Sakura powder for that magical finish.
5: Enjoy!
Sip and savor your elegant Sakura Latte, warm and cozy.
Variations to Try
Want to customize your Sakura Latte experience? Here are some delicious ideas:
- Iced Sakura Latte – Let the warm latte cool, pour over ice, and top with whipped cream for a refreshing spring drink.
- Matcha Sakura Latte – Add 1 tsp matcha powder to the milk for a stunning green and pink blend.
- Strawberry Sakura Latte (Starbucks-inspired) – Swirl in 1 tbsp of strawberry syrup for a fruity twist.
- Caffeinated version – Add a shot of espresso for a floral latte with a kick.
Storage Tips
How to Store Sakura Latte
Leftover latte? No problem! Pour any extra into a sealed jar and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes! Freeze the latte (without whipped cream) in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently when you’re ready.
More Cocktails & Drinks Recipes to Try
If you loved this floral drink, try these other cozy creations:
- Blue Raspberry Lemonade – The Ultimate Summer Drink
- Georgia Peach Drink
- Orange Crush Cocktail
- Drunk Bunny Cocktail
Conclusion
The Sakura Latte is more than just a drink—it’s a celebration of spring, cherry blossoms, and peaceful moments. Whether you’re enjoying it on a quiet morning or serving it at a spring brunch, this elegant Japanese drink is sure to impress. It’s warm, whimsical, and wonderfully unique.
Sakura Latte
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk can be dairy or dairy-free
- 2 tbsp Sakura powder plus more for garnish
- 1 tbsp honey can sub for maple syrup
- 1/4 cup heavy cream optional
Instructions
- Heat the Milk: Pour your milk into a small saucepan and add the Sakura powder. Warm it gently over medium heat until it begins to steam, whisking constantly so the powder dissolves fully.
- Sweeten the Latte: Remove the milk from heat and stir in your sweetener—start with a tablespoon of honey and adjust to your liking.
- Whip the Cream: Add cold heavy cream to a small bowl and froth it using a whisk or milk frother. You’re not looking for stiff peaks—just soft, fluffy foam.
- Assemble Your Latte: Pour the warm Sakura-infused milk into a mug. Top with a spoonful of whipped cream and sprinkle extra Sakura powder for that magical finish.
- Enjoy: Sip and savor your elegant Sakura Latte, warm and cozy.
Notes
- Iced Sakura Latte – Let the warm latte cool, pour over ice, and top with whipped cream for a refreshing spring drink.
- Matcha Sakura Latte – Add 1 tsp matcha powder to the milk for a stunning green and pink blend.
- Strawberry Sakura Latte (Starbucks-inspired) – Swirl in 1 tbsp of strawberry syrup for a fruity twist.
- Caffeinated version – Add a shot of espresso for a floral latte with a kick.
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