Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea
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!
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.