If you’re craving a bold and flavorful twist on your usual iced chai, this Refreshing Iced Cherry Chai Starbucks Copycat Recipe will become your new go-to treat. It effortlessly combines the warm, spicy notes of chai tea with the bright, juicy essence of cherry, all balanced with creamy milk and a touch of sweetness. Whether you’re relaxing on a sunny afternoon or need a delightful pick-me-up, this drink captures the magic of Starbucks’ beloved cherry chai in a homemade version that’s both refreshing and satisfyingly sweet.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Believe it or not, this recipe relies on a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that each play a starring role. From the aromatic chai tea bags to the luscious cherry juice, every component brings something special to the flavor and texture, making the final drink nothing short of spectacular.
- Chai tea bags (2): The heart of the drink, infusing it with warm spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves.
- Hot water (3/4 cup or 180ml): Essential for steeping the chai tea perfectly to release those rich flavors.
- Cherry juice or cherry syrup (1/2 cup or 120ml): Adds a vibrant, fruity sweetness that wakes up the palate beautifully.
- Milk of choice (1/2 cup or 120ml): Creaminess that smooths out the spices and fruitiness – oat, almond, or whole milk all work wonders.
- Honey, maple syrup, or simple syrup (1–2 teaspoons): Your choice of sweetener to personalize the drink’s sweetness to your liking.
- Ice cubes: To chill the drink into the perfect iced beverage.
- Maraschino cherries or fresh cherries: For garnish and an extra hint of cherry flavor.
- Cinnamon or nutmeg dusting: A final aromatic sprinkle to elevate aroma and appearance.
- Cold foam or whipped cream: Optional, but creates a luxurious top layer to complement the drink.
How to Make Refreshing Iced Cherry Chai Starbucks Copycat Recipe
Step 1: Steep the Chai Tea
Start by steeping your chai tea bags in hot water for 5 to 7 minutes. This step is where the magic begins as the water extracts those cozy and spicy notes from the chai, setting the perfect base for your drink. Don’t rush it—letting the tea steep fully ensures a rich, flavorful foundation.
Step 2: Sweeten and Cool
Once steeped, remove the tea bags and stir in your chosen sweetener while the tea is still warm, so it dissolves completely. Adjust the sweetness to your preference here. Then, allow the chai base to cool down to room temperature or chill it briefly in the fridge—this keeps your iced drink perfectly refreshing instead of watered down from melting ice.
Step 3: Combine Cherry and Milk
In a jar or shaker, pour in your cooled chai, cherry juice or syrup, and milk of choice. The cherry juice adds that signature fruity brightness, while the milk creates a silky texture that balances out the spices beautifully. Give it a good stir or shake to blend all these flavors seamlessly together.
Step 4: Assemble Your Drink
Fill a tall glass with plenty of ice cubes to keep your beverage icy cold. Then, pour the combined chai and cherry mixture right over the ice. This layering chills the drink immediately, making it delightfully thirst-quenching and flavorful from first sip to last.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Add a finishing touch by garnishing your drink with a maraschino or fresh cherry on top. If you’re feeling a little fancy, a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg—or even a swirl of cold foam or whipped cream—can take your drink to the next level. Serve it instantly for the freshest taste and coolest experience.
How to Serve Refreshing Iced Cherry Chai Starbucks Copycat Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes aren’t just pretty here—they add an extra sensory dimension. A bright maraschino cherry makes a nostalgic, sweet pop, fresh cherries add natural juiciness, and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg contributes inviting aromas that get your senses tingling even before the first sip. Plus, a swirl of cold foam or whipped cream brings a luscious creaminess that makes you feel like you’re indulging in a cafe treat.
Side Dishes
The Refreshing Iced Cherry Chai Starbucks Copycat Recipe pairs wonderfully with light breakfast pastries like croissants or scones, as the spices and fruitiness complement buttery, flaky bites. For a more substantial snack, try it alongside spiced nut mixes or fruit salads—both balance the chai’s bold profile with their contrasting textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Make this drink even more special by serving it in a decorative glass jar or tall clear glass so the beautiful layers and colors shine through. Add a reusable colorful straw or a cinnamon stick stirrer for visual appeal. You can also create a mini float version by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of cold foam topped with edible flower petals for whimsical charm.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover chai mixture, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors meld over time, so you might find it tastes even better the next day! Just be sure to give it a good stir before using, as some separation can happen.
Freezing
While freezing this drink isn’t ideal because of the milk content which can separate, you can freeze the chai concentrate (without milk) in ice cube trays. Then, simply pop a few cubes into your glass and mix with milk and cherry juice for a quick and convenient make-ahead twist on the Refreshing Iced Cherry Chai Starbucks Copycat Recipe.
Reheating
This recipe is best enjoyed cold, but if you want a warm version, gently heat the chai and cherry mixture on the stove or in the microwave before adding milk and sweetener. Avoid boiling to preserve those beautiful spices and the vibrant cherry flavor.
FAQs
Can I use loose leaf chai instead of tea bags?
Absolutely! Just use about 2 teaspoons of loose leaf chai per cup and steep it for the same 5 to 7 minutes. Loose leaf often provides a more robust flavor, so it’s a great option if you want to elevate your homemade chai drink.
Is there a dairy-free way to make this recipe?
Yes! You can use any plant-based milk, like oat, almond, or soy milk, without sacrificing creaminess. These alternatives also add their own subtle flavors that blend beautifully with the cherry and spices.
How sweet should I make my Refreshing Iced Cherry Chai Starbucks Copycat Recipe?
Sweetness really depends on your preference and the sweetness of your cherry juice or syrup. Start with 1 teaspoon of your sweetener and taste before adding more. The natural cherry juice can add sweetness on its own, so adjust accordingly.
Can I make a larger batch for a party?
Definitely! Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need and mix everything in a large pitcher. Keep it chilled and add ice just before serving to keep the drink from becoming diluted.
What if I don’t have cherry juice or syrup?
If you can’t find cherry juice or syrup, pomegranate juice with a bit of cherry extract or grenadine syrup can be great substitutes, offering a similar fruity depth and color that complements the chai spices wonderfully.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly delightful about recreating your favorite cafe drinks at home, and this Refreshing Iced Cherry Chai Starbucks Copycat Recipe is no exception. It’s sweet, spicy, creamy, and fruity all at once—a harmonious blend that’s hard to resist. Give this recipe a try the next time you want a special homemade refreshment that feels both cozy and invigorating. Trust me, once you sip this, the craving for your Starbucks version will be happily satisfied without ever leaving your kitchen.
Print
Refreshing Iced Cherry Chai Starbucks Copycat Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 to 2 drinks
- Category: Beverages
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Refreshing Iced Cherry Chai Starbucks Copycat recipe combines the spicy aromatic flavors of chai tea with the sweet tartness of cherry juice, finished with creamy milk and a touch of sweetener. Perfect for a cooling, flavorful iced beverage that you can easily make at home.
Ingredients
Chai Tea Base
- 2 chai tea bags (or 2 teaspoons loose leaf chai)
- 3/4 cup (180ml) hot water
- 1–2 teaspoons honey, maple syrup, or simple syrup (to taste)
Fruit and Dairy
- 1/2 cup (120ml) cherry juice or cherry syrup
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk of choice (oat, almond, whole milk, etc.)
Extras and Garnishes
- Ice cubes
- Maraschino cherries or fresh cherries
- Cinnamon or nutmeg dusting (optional)
- Cold foam or whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
- Steep the chai tea: Place the chai tea bags in the hot water and steep for 5–7 minutes to fully extract the spices and flavors.
- Add sweetener and cool: Remove the tea bags and stir in honey, maple syrup, or simple syrup while the tea is warm. Then allow the tea to cool to room temperature.
- Combine ingredients: In a jar or shaker, add the cooled chai tea, cherry juice or syrup, and your choice of milk.
- Mix well: Shake or stir the mixture thoroughly to blend all the flavors evenly.
- Prepare glass and serve: Fill a tall glass with ice cubes, then pour the chai-cherry mixture over the ice.
- Garnish and enjoy: Top with a maraschino or fresh cherry and optionally dust with cinnamon or nutmeg or add cold foam or whipped cream for extra indulgence. Serve immediately.
Notes
- You can adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more or less syrup, honey, or maple syrup.
- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk like oat or almond milk.
- Cold foam or whipped cream adds creaminess and visual appeal but can be omitted for a lighter drink.
- Steeping the chai longer will result in a stronger spice flavor.
- Serve immediately after preparing to keep the drink cold and flavorful.
