Name: Delight in Strawberry Shortcake Iced Latte Bliss This Spring
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 cup coffee (freshly brewed or cold brew); 1 cup milk or dairy alternative (oat milk or almond milk work well); to taste sweetener (sugar, honey, or agave syrup); 1 cup strawberries (fresh or frozen); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for extra depth); to taste whipped cream (for topping); to taste strawberry slices (for garnish); as needed ice cubes (to chill the drink)

As I stepped onto my patio this morning, the vibrant colors of spring seemed to call for a drink that celebrates the season. What better way to capture that essence than with a Strawberry Shortcake Iced Latte? This delightful beverage blends the rich, energizing notes of coffee with the sweet, fruity flavors of strawberries, creating a refreshing treat that’s both indulgent and invigorating. Perfect for hot afternoons or as a crowd-pleaser at brunches, this iced coffee is a delicious way to elevate your spring beverage game. With its creamy texture and delightful sweetness, it’s a guilt-free way to indulge your cravings without compromising on flavor. Ready to sip on something spectacular? Let’s dive into this refreshing recipe and chill out!

Why Try Strawberry Shortcake Iced Latte?

Refreshing and creamy, this iced latte brings the essence of spring right to your glass. Unique flavor combo: the delightful fusion of coffee and strawberries makes every sip a joyous experience. Quick and easy: with just a few ingredients, you can whip this up in minutes! Perfect for brunch gatherings or a relaxing afternoon, it’s sure to impress your guests and charm your taste buds. If you love fruity beverages, you might also enjoy a Strawberry Shortcake Ice or a refreshing Strawberry Shortcake Protein shake to match!

Strawberry Shortcake Iced Latte Ingredients

• Whip up this delightful beverage with a few simple ingredients!

For the Iced Latte

Coffee – Choose freshly brewed or cold brew for a smooth base of energy.
Milk or Dairy Alternative – Adds a creamy texture; options like oat milk or almond milk work wonderfully.
Sweetener – Use sugar, honey, or agave syrup to balance the flavors; modify to your taste!

For the Strawberry Flavoring

Strawberries – Use fresh or frozen; they provide that sweet, fruity essence key to your Strawberry Shortcake Iced Latte.
Vanilla Extract – Introduces a lovely depth; a splash will enhance the overall flavor.

For Garnishing

Whipped Cream – Top it off for a decadent finish and extra creaminess.
Strawberry Slices – Add on top for a beautiful presentation and a burst of fresh flavor.

Ice

Ice Cubes – Essential for chilling and achieving that frosty delight; larger cubes help slow dilution.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Shortcake Iced Latte

Step 1: Brew Your Coffee
Start by brewing your coffee, using either freshly brewed hot coffee or cold brew for a smoother taste. Aim for about 1 cup of coffee, which you’ll let cool to room temperature. If using hot coffee, pour it into a glass and allow it to sit for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling process is essential for creating the perfect Strawberry Shortcake Iced Latte.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Flavoring
While your coffee cools, wash and hull 1 cup of strawberries. Blend them in a food processor until smooth, creating a fresh strawberry puree. If desired, add a splash of vanilla extract for a little extra depth and blend again. This fruity mixture will be the highlight of your Strawberry Shortcake Iced Latte, bringing that sweet essence to the forefront.

Step 3: Assemble Your Iced Latte
Fill a tall glass with ice cubes, filling it about halfway. Slowly pour the cooled coffee over the ice, filling the glass to about ¾ full. The ice should create a chilling effect, keeping your drink refreshing. Watch as the coffee cascades over the ice, creating a delightful contrast that sets the stage for your Strawberry Shortcake Iced Latte.

Step 4: Add Milk and Sweetener
Next, pour in your choice of milk or dairy alternative, like oat or almond milk, until the glass is nearly full. Stir in your preferred sweetener, like sugar, honey, or agave syrup. Adjust to your sweetness preference, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. This mixture will enhance the creamy, dreamy aspect of your Strawberry Shortcake Iced Latte.

Step 5: Incorporate Strawberry Puree
Spoon in a generous amount of your strawberry puree, stirring gently to combine the flavors without losing the beautiful strawberry swirl effect. This step is key to achieving that iconic fruity flavor profile in your Strawberry Shortcake Iced Latte, infusing each sip with delightful sweetness and richness.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, crown your Strawberry Shortcake Iced Latte with a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra indulgence. Place a few fresh strawberry slices on the whipped cream for a beautiful presentation. Serve immediately with a straw or a long spoon, enjoying the refreshing taste of spring in every sip!

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Shortcake Iced Latte

Fridge: Store leftover iced latte in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat or remix before drinking, as the flavors may separate.

Freezer: For freezing, separate the strawberry puree in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. Use in future lattes for an instant flavor boost!

Reheating: If you’ve made a large batch, gently reheat the coffee portion on the stove or in the microwave before combining with the other ingredients. Avoid boiling to prevent altering the flavors.

Make-Ahead: Prepare the strawberry puree ahead and store it in the fridge for up to a week. This allows for a quick assembly of your Strawberry Shortcake Iced Latte whenever the craving strikes!

Make Ahead Options

These refreshing Strawberry Shortcake Iced Lattes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the strawberry puree up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, ensuring that the vibrant flavor remains fresh. Additionally, you can brew your coffee ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy your iced latte, simply assemble by filling a glass with ice, pouring in your chilled coffee, adding your milk and sweetener, and then incorporating the strawberry puree. This method not only saves you time but also guarantees a delicious treat that’s just as delightful as if it were made fresh!

Expert Tips for Strawberry Shortcake Iced Latte

Choose Quality Coffee: Use freshly brewed or high-quality cold brew coffee to ensure a rich base flavor. Avoid instant coffee for the best results.
Balance Flavors: Start with just a spoonful of strawberry puree and adjust according to taste. Too much can overwhelm the delicate coffee notes in your Strawberry Shortcake Iced Latte.
Chill Your Glass: Pre-chill your glass in the freezer for a few minutes before assembling to keep your iced latte cold for longer.
Perfect Milk Ratio: For creaminess, aim for equal parts coffee and milk. If you prefer a lighter taste, reduce milk slightly or opt for a lower-calorie dairy alternative.
Garnish Creatively: Elevate your drink with a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers on top of the whipped cream for a nod to traditional strawberry shortcake.
Experiment with Sweeteners: Try natural sweeteners like maple syrup or stevia for health-conscious options while keeping the flavor delicious.

Strawberry Shortcake Iced Latte Variations

Feel free to customize your iced latte experience with these delightful twists that celebrate the essence of spring!

Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or oat milk to create a creamy yet dairy-free version. The nutty undertones add a lovely depth to the flavors.
Vegan Delight: Swap sweeteners for maple syrup or agave to keep it plant-based. Your iced latte can be just as indulgent without any animal products!
Berry Fusion: Mix in raspberries along with strawberries for a delightful berry blend. This adds a tartness that beautifully complements the sweetness of the strawberries.
Coconut Bliss: Substitute milk with coconut milk for a tropical vibe. The creamy nature of coconut milk enhances the texture while imparting a subtle, sweet flavor.
Chocolate Indulgence: Drizzle some chocolate syrup into the latte for a strawberry and chocolate combination. It gives your iced coffee a rich, dessert-like quality.
Nutty Finish: Add a sprinkle of crushed pistachios or almonds as a garnish. This adds a crunchy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the creaminess.
Minty Freshness: Stir in a handful of fresh mint leaves along with the strawberry puree. The coolness of mint brightens up each sip, making it extra refreshing.

If you’re looking for other flavorful inspirations, don’t miss out on trying Strawberry Shortcake Ice or a healthy Strawberry Shortcake Protein shake. Each option keeps that delightful spring essence alive while exciting your taste buds!

What to Serve with Strawberry Shortcake Iced Latte?

Savoring a Strawberry Shortcake Iced Latte is a delightful experience—let’s enhance your spring meal with some perfect pairings!

Fluffy Pancakes: These light and airy pancakes serve as a sweet base, perfectly soaking up the fruity flavors of your latte.
Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of fresh fruits complements the strawberry in your drink, offering a refreshing, healthful crunch.
Savory Scones: These buttery bites bring a delightful contrast with their flaky texture, balancing the sweetness of the iced latte beautifully.
Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon adds a savory touch, harmonizing with the sweet notes of your Strawberry Shortcake Iced Latte.

Imagine a cozy brunch spread with fluffy pancakes drizzled in syrup, cool fruit salad bursting with seasonal berries, and warm scones fresh from the oven. Each bite and sip will enhance your enjoyment!

Iced Tea: A refreshing, lightly sweetened iced tea complements the flavors of your drink, perfect for warm afternoons spent outdoors.
Almond Biscotti: The crunchy texture of biscotti pairs delightfully for an elegant touch, perfect for dipping into your latte.
Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layered with fresh fruit and granola, a yogurt parfait offers a light and satisfying start to your day, accentuating the flavors of your iced coffee.

Strawberry Shortcake Iced Latte Recipe FAQs

How should I select strawberries for my iced latte?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red, plump, and firm. Avoid any that have dark spots or are overly ripe, as they may be mushy and less flavorful. Fresh strawberries will give your Strawberry Shortcake Iced Latte that coveted sweet and juicy flavor!

What’s the best way to store leftover Strawberry Shortcake Iced Latte?
You can store any leftover iced latte in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just give it a good shake or stir before enjoying it again, as the ingredients may separate. However, for optimal freshness and taste, it’s best to consume your iced latte right after preparation!

Can I freeze the ingredients for later use?
Very! To freeze your Strawberry Shortcake Iced Latte, separate the strawberry puree into an ice cube tray and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen cubes to a zip-top bag, and they can last for up to 3 months! This makes it super convenient for a quick iced latte anytime you want that fabulous strawberry flavor.

What if my iced latte turns out too sweet or too weak?
No worries if it doesn’t come out just right! If it’s too sweet, simply add a little more coffee or a splash of milk to dilute the sweetness. If it’s too weak, boost the flavor with an extra swirl of your homemade strawberry puree or a splash more of coffee. Remember, feel free to adjust until you find your perfect blend.

Can I make this iced latte vegan?
Absolutely! To create a vegan Strawberry Shortcake Iced Latte, simply choose a non-dairy milk alternative like oat milk or almond milk. Just make sure your sweetener is plant-based as well, like agave syrup or maple syrup, to keep it delicious and dairy-free!

Is it okay to make this iced latte ahead of time?
Of course! You can prepare the strawberry puree and keep it in the fridge for up to a week. When you’re ready to enjoy your iced latte, simply brew your coffee, assemble the ingredients, and you’re all set for a quick, refreshing drink that’s ready in minutes!