01 -
In a small saucepan, combine the fresh cherries and 2 tablespoons of water. Simmer over low heat for 3-5 minutes until cherries soften and release their juices. Gently mash to extract maximum flavor.
02 -
Bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Steep the Earl Grey tea for 3-5 minutes depending on desired strength. Remove tea bag or strain loose leaves.
03 -
Add milk to the saucepan with softened cherries and heat gently, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add cinnamon stick if using.
04 -
Stir vanilla syrup into the milk and cherry mixture, adjusting sweetness to taste.
05 -
Pour the brewed Earl Grey tea into a mug, then strain the warm milk and cherry mixture into the same mug. Press on cherries to extract all juice. Stir well to combine.
06 -
For hot tea, serve immediately. For iced version, allow to cool slightly then pour over ice. Garnish with a fresh cherry or sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.