Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea

This Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea is a fragrant and creamy tea drink that combines the floral notes of Earl Grey, the sweet-tart punch of cherries, and the richness of milk. It’s the perfect beverage for a soothing afternoon treat, whether enjoyed warm or iced. This unique twist on traditional milk tea is sure to elevate my tea experience with every sip.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea because it offers a beautiful balance of flavors. The floral aroma of Earl Grey tea blends so perfectly with the tart sweetness of cherries, creating a refreshing drink that feels both luxurious and comforting. The rich milk adds a creamy texture that makes the drink incredibly smooth. Whether I’m in the mood for a warm, cozy drink or a refreshing iced version, this recipe adapts beautifully to both. It’s the perfect way to unwind and treat myself to something special.

Ingredients

• 2 cups water

• 2 Earl Grey tea bags

• ½ cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved

• 2 tablespoons cherry syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)

• 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (adjust to taste)

• 1 cup milk (whole, oat, or almond, per preference)

• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

• Ice cubes (for iced version)

• Fresh cherries or a lemon slice, for garnish

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Bring the water to a gentle boil in a small saucepan. Add the halved cherries and simmer for 3–4 minutes, until the cherries begin to soften and release their juices.

2. Remove the saucepan from heat and add the Earl Grey tea bags. Cover the pan and let it steep for 4–5 minutes.

3. Carefully remove the tea bags and strain the liquid to separate the cherries from the tea.

4. Stir in the cherry syrup (if using) and honey or sugar until fully dissolved. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.

5. For a warm drink: Return the saucepan to low heat and stir in the milk. Warm gently, making sure not to let it boil.

6. For an iced version: Let the mixture cool slightly, then pour it over a glass filled with ice and add the cold milk.

7. Garnish with fresh cherries or a lemon slice. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 2 servings and takes about 15 minutes in total, with 5 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time.

Variations

• If I want a stronger cherry flavor, I sometimes add a bit more cherry syrup or fresh cherries.

• To adjust the sweetness, I can swap out the honey or sugar for a different sweetener, such as maple syrup or agave nectar.

• For a more intense floral note, I’ll steep the tea a little longer or add a dash of lavender alongside the Earl Grey.

• If I prefer a dairy-free version, oat, almond, or coconut milk work perfectly as substitutes.

Storage/Reheating

• For the warm version, I recommend serving immediately as the milk can lose its creaminess if reheated.

• The iced version can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal flavor and texture.

• If I have leftover cherry tea concentrate, I can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days and use it for another batch.

FAQs

Can I make this Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea without the cherry syrup?

Yes, I can absolutely skip the cherry syrup if I prefer a more natural sweetness. The cherries already provide a lovely amount of sweetness, and I can adjust the honey or sugar to my taste.

Can I use other types of tea instead of Earl Grey?

I love the floral notes of Earl Grey, but I can certainly try this recipe with other teas like black tea or green tea for a different flavor profile.

How can I make this tea more refreshing in hot weather?

If I want an extra refreshing version, I’ll use cold milk and serve the tea over ice. I can even add a slice of lemon for a bright, citrusy twist.

Can I add more fruit to this drink?

Yes, I can experiment with different fruits, such as raspberries or strawberries, to enhance the fruity flavors of the tea. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness based on the fruit's natural taste.

Is it okay to use frozen cherries?

Absolutely! Frozen cherries work just as well as fresh cherries. They’re convenient and often just as flavorful, especially when fresh cherries are out of season.

Conclusion

The Cherry Earl Grey Milk Tea is an elegant and comforting drink that blends the best of both worlds floral Earl Grey tea and sweet, tart cherries with creamy milk. It’s a simple yet sophisticated beverage that I can enjoy any time of day, whether as a cozy warm treat or a refreshing iced delight. Perfect for tea lovers and anyone who enjoys a delicate, flavorful drink. I love how it’s so easy to make and such a treat to sip on!