Introduction: A Cozy Creation Born on a Rainy Afternoon
It was one of those rainy afternoons that seem to slow time to a comforting crawl. Curled up by the window with a book, I had everything I needed—except for the perfect drink. I wandered into the kitchen, drawn by the promise of comfort. My eyes landed on a forgotten tin of Earl Grey tea, and right beside it, a jar of ruby-red cherry preserves. And just like that, inspiration struck.
What if I could infuse the elegant citrusy notes of Earl Grey with the sweet depth of cherries, and smooth it all out with milk and vanilla? A warm, comforting beverage with a twist. I gave it a go. And that, dear reader, is how Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea became a new favorite in my tea ritual.
Today, I’m sharing this deliciously unique recipe with you—perfect hot or iced. Whether you’re into cozy sipping or cooling refreshment, this tea blend is sure to become your go-to.
Why You’ll Love This Tea Fusion
– Bold Meets Sweet: A Perfect Flavor Marriage
Earl Grey brings bold, citrusy brightness from bergamot oil, while cherries add natural sweetness and depth. The milk binds these contrasts beautifully, giving the drink a rich, smooth mouthfeel.
– Aromatherapy in a Mug
The combination of bergamot and cherry aromas creates an experience beyond taste—it fills your space with warmth and calm, perfect for relaxation.
– Flexible for Any Season
Serve it warm on chilly days or chilled over ice for a summer tea treat. It’s delicious both ways, which makes it a staple all year round.
Ingredients for Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea
– What You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 1 Earl Grey tea bag (or 1 tsp loose leaf) | Base flavor – citrusy, floral |
| 1 cup water | For steeping tea |
| ½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based) | Creamy texture |
| 4–5 fresh cherries or 1 tbsp preserves | Sweetness & color |
| 1–2 tsp vanilla syrup | Smooth, aromatic sweetness |
| 1 cinnamon stick (optional) | Adds warming spice |
| Ice (optional) | For cold version |
– Ingredient Tips
Use Bing cherries or dark cherries for rich flavor. If fresh cherries aren’t in season, frozen cherries (thawed) or a spoon of cherry preserves will work beautifully.
Dairy milk adds richness, while almond or oat milk makes it a light, dairy-free version without losing creaminess.
Step-by-Step Instructions
– Step 1: Prepare the Cherries
In a small saucepan, combine 4–5 pitted, halved cherries with 2 tablespoons of water. Simmer over low heat for about 3–5 minutes, until they soften. Lightly mash with a spoon to release juices.
– Step 2: Brew the Tea
While the cherries simmer, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add your Earl Grey tea and steep for 3–5 minutes depending on how strong you want it. Remove the tea bag or strain the leaves.
– Step 3: Add Milk and Spice
Pour ½ cup of milk into the saucepan with the cherries. Add a cinnamon stick if desired. Warm the mixture gently until the milk is heated through (do not boil).
– Step 4: Sweeten
Add 1–2 teaspoons of vanilla syrup to the cherry-milk mixture and stir. You can adjust the sweetness to your taste.
– Step 5: Combine & Serve
Pour the brewed tea into your mug, then strain the cherry-milk mixture into it. Press the cherries against the strainer to extract all the flavor. Stir well.
How to Make It Iced
Want a cold version? Just follow the same process but let the finished tea cool to room temperature. Then:
- Refrigerate it for 20 minutes.
- Pour over ice in a tall glass.
- Garnish with a fresh cherry and optional cinnamon stick.
Enjoy this refreshing twist on a classic!
Variations and Add-Ons
– Use Cherry Preserves
No fresh cherries? Stir a spoon of black cherry preserves into warm milk—it melts right in and gives a stronger cherry flavor.
– Add Cherry Foam
Froth a few cherries with milk and pour on top of your hot tea for a beautiful cherry milk cap.
– Turn It Into a Dessert Drink
Top with whipped cream, drizzle with cherry syrup, and you’ve got a decadent tea dessert.
– For Adults Only
Add a splash of Cherry Heering or Kirsch liqueur for an evening cocktail version.
Related Recipes Pairings
Pair this Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea with these delicious homemade creations from our kitchen:
- For a creamy complement, try the Korean Strawberry Milk
- Love tart Mochi ? Try Simple 3-Ingredient Mango Mochi
- Looking for a treat to snack on? The Pistachio Lemon Cake Loaf make the perfect tea-time pairing.
Benefits of Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea
| Ingredient | Health Benefit |
|---|---|
| Earl Grey | Antioxidants, mood booster |
| Cherries | Anti-inflammatory, vitamin C |
| Milk | Calcium & protein |
| Cinnamon | Blood sugar control (optional) |
This tea doesn’t just taste good—it’s good for you too!
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Hot version: Best enjoyed fresh.
- Cold version: Make up to 24 hours in advance and store in the fridge.
- Syrup & cherry mix: Can be prepped ahead and stored for 3–4 days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use tea bags instead of loose leaf?
Yes, a standard tea bag works great! Just use high-quality Earl Grey for the best flavor.
Can I skip the cinnamon?
Absolutely. It’s optional—only add if you enjoy warm spice undertones.
Can I use cherry juice instead of whole cherries?
Yes, but it will be lighter in flavor. You may need to add more syrup for depth.
What’s the best milk alternative?
Oat milk has a neutral flavor and creamy texture that pairs well with both cherry and bergamot.
How can I make it vegan?
Use plant-based milk and make sure your syrup doesn’t contain honey. You’re good to go!