The holidays always bring such a sense of joy and warmth, don’t they? For me, it’s the simple moments that stand out, like sipping a festive drink by the fire while the scent of cinnamon fills the air. This year, I’ve been experimenting with a delightful twist on a classic latte: the Cranberry Tea Latte. It’s incredibly easy to make and bursting with flavor, plus, you can whip it up in under 15 minutes. So, grab your favorite mug and let’s make this delicious cranberry tea latte together!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Tea Latte
- Ready in under 15 minutes!
- Perfect balance of sweet and tart.
- Easy to customize with your favorite milk and sweeteners.
- A festive and comforting drink for any occasion.
Amazing Cranberry Tea Latte Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine all ingredients in a saucepan.
- Simmer 10–12 minutes until cranberries burst and syrup thickens slightly.
- Strain into a jar, discard solids, and let cool. Store in the fridge up to 2 weeks.
- Make cranberry syrup (see instructions below) and let cool.
- Whisk matcha with hot water until smooth and frothy.
- Mix cranberry syrup with milk. Heat for hot latte or keep cold for iced version.
- For iced, add ice to a glass and pour milk + syrup mixture over. Slowly layer matcha on top.
- Garnish and serve immediately.
- Make cranberry syrup (see instructions below) and let cool.
- Whisk matcha with hot water until smooth and frothy.
- Mix cranberry syrup with milk. Heat for hot latte or keep cold for iced version.
- For iced, add ice to a glass and pour milk + syrup mixture over. Slowly layer matcha on top.
- Garnish and serve immediately.
Notes
Ingredients for Cranberry Tea Latte
For the Cranberry Syrup
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar (or honey/maple syrup for a natural option)
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
For the Cranberry Tea Latte
- 1 teaspoon matcha powder
- 2 ounces hot water (175°F)
- ½–¾ cup milk of choice
- 2–3 tablespoons cranberry syrup (see recipe above)
- Ice cubes for iced version
Equipment You’ll Need
To make this cranberry tea latte, you’ll need a saucepan, strainer, whisk, measuring cups, and a glass or mug. Simple as that!
How to Make Cranberry Tea Latte: Step-by-Step Instructions
I’m here to guide you through each step, so you can easily create this festive drink. Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think!
Make the Cranberry Syrup
- Combine all ingredients in a saucepan.
- Simmer 10–12 minutes until cranberries burst and syrup thickens slightly.
- Strain into a jar, discard solids, and let cool. Store in the fridge up to 2 weeks, or explore other delightful cranberry-based recipes using this versatile syrup.
Make the Cranberry Tea Latte
- Make cranberry syrup (see instructions below) and let cool.
- Whisk matcha with hot water until smooth and frothy.
- Mix cranberry syrup with milk. Heat for hot latte or keep cold for iced version.
- For iced, add ice to a glass and pour milk + syrup mixture over. Slowly layer matcha on top.
- Garnish and serve immediately.
For an Iced Cranberry Tea Latte
- Make cranberry syrup (see instructions below) and let cool.
- Whisk matcha with hot water until smooth and frothy.
- Mix cranberry syrup with milk. Heat for hot latte or keep cold for iced version.
- For iced, add ice to a glass and pour milk + syrup mixture over. Slowly layer matcha on top.
- Garnish and serve immediately.
Tips for the Perfect Cranberry Tea Latte
To make the best latte, adjust the amount of syrup to your taste. Frothing the milk properly makes a big difference, so take your time. Using high-quality ingredients always elevates the flavor, too, ensuring all your homemade drink recipes are exceptional.
Flavor Variations
| Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Tea Type | Experiment with black tea, green tea, herbal tea, or rooibos for different flavor profiles. |
| Cranberry Liqueur | Add a splash of cranberry liqueur for a boozy kick. |
| Spices | Enhance the flavor with a dash of cinnamon, cloves, or ginger. |
Milk Options
| Milk Type | Flavor Profile | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cow’s Milk | Classic, creamy | Whole milk provides the richest flavor, while skim milk is a lighter option. |
| Almond Milk | Nutty, slightly sweet | A popular dairy-free choice. |
| Oat Milk | Creamy, mild | Works well for frothing. |
| Soy Milk | Neutral | A good source of protein. |
| Coconut Milk | Tropical | Adds a hint of coconut flavor. |
Sweetener Options
| Sweetener Type | Flavor Profile | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sugar | Classic, sweet | Easy to find and use. |
| Honey | Floral, slightly sweet | Adds a natural sweetness. |
| Maple Syrup | Rich, caramel-like | Another natural option with a distinctive flavor. |
Serving Suggestions
Pair your cranberry tea latte with delicious treats. Scones, muffins, or biscotti are always a good choice. Or, if you’re looking for another festive beverage, try an amazing 10-minute holiday punch.
Storage Instructions
Leftover cranberry syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. I don’t recommend making the latte ahead of time, as it tastes best fresh.
Health Benefits of Cranberries and Tea
Cranberries are packed with antioxidants, which are great for your health. Matcha also has its benefits, providing a gentle energy boost and additional antioxidants.
Troubleshooting and Common Mistakes
If your syrup isn’t thickening, give it a little more time to simmer. If your latte isn’t frothing, make sure your milk is cold before frothing. If your tea tastes bitter, try using slightly cooler water.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of tea pair best with cranberry?
Black tea, green tea, and herbal teas all work well.
How long should I steep the tea?
Follow the instructions on your tea package for best results.
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, just use a plant-based milk and sweetener.
Can I double the recipe?
Of course! Simply double all the ingredients.
Conclusion
Isn’t this cranberry tea latte just the easiest and most delicious festive drink? I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do. Now, I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below, ask any questions you might have, share your results, and don’t forget to rate the recipe. Happy sipping, friends!
