Iced Butterfly Pea Latte

This vibrant iced butterfly pea flower tea latte always brightens up my afternoon and fascinates everyone who sees its swirling shades of blue and purple. Whether you are craving a refreshing drink or looking for a centerpiece for brunch, this recipe turns simple ingredients into something magical.

I first discovered this tea while visiting a friend in Thailand and was smitten by how effortlessly beautiful and soothing it was. Now it is my go to treat when I want to impress guests or just enjoy a mindful tea break.

Ingredients

• Dried butterfly pea flowers or butterfly pea tea bags: The base of the drink with a brilliant color and floral earthiness Look for deep blue petals or reputable brands for best hue and flavor
• Hot water: Extracts the signature blue color from the flowers Use freshly boiled filtered water for purity
• Honey or sugar or sweetener: Adds a gentle sweetness that balances the floral notes Adjust to your liking and try using local honey for extra richness
• Milk: Brings creaminess and visual contrast Use your favorite milk from whole dairy to oat or almond for a twist
• Ice cubes: Keeps the drink chilled and layers the ingredients Use filtered water for clear cubes
• Lemon or lime slices: Optional for garnish and color shifting Add brightness and a citrus zing plus the acid turns the blue tea purple for a showstopping touch
• Edible flowers: Optional for a finishing flourish Choose unsprayed flowers like violets or lavender for a pop of color
• Cinnamon or matcha powder: Optional for sprinkling Adds subtle spice or earthiness on top Go with a light dusting just before serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brew the Tea:

Place all your dried butterfly pea flowers or tea bags in a heatproof container Pour hot water directly over the flowers Cover and let them steep undisturbed for five to seven minutes The water should transform to a vibrant deep blue Stir in your honey or sweetener while the tea is hot so it fully dissolves Let the tea cool to room temperature then place it in the refrigerator until completely chilled

Assemble the Latte:

Fill your favorite glass all the way with clean ice cubes Slowly pour the chilled butterfly pea tea over the ice filling the glass halfway Grab your milk and gently pour it over the back of a spoon so it floats over the tea for a pretty layered look

Garnish and Serve:

Tuck in fresh lemon or lime slices along the rim to watch the blue color shift to purple right before your eyes Sprinkle a few edible flowers on top for beauty If you like a touch of spice add a tiny pinch of cinnamon or matcha powder Stir gently when ready to sip or simply enjoy the drink as the layers naturally blend together

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My favorite element is that moment when lemon hits the tea and suddenly swirls of violet appear Something about sharing this with friends always gets a smile and turns a simple chat into a mini celebration It has even become my birthday breakfast tradition with my sister

Storage Tips

Prepare the butterfly pea tea in advance and keep it tightly covered in the refrigerator It stays fresh and vibrant for up to two days If you are batch prepping avoid adding milk until you are ready to serve to keep the colors bright and distinct Leftover latte is best enjoyed the same day since the milk and tea will naturally mix and may lose its layered effect

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find butterfly pea flowers try blue tea blends found at specialty grocery stores For a vegan drink use your favorite plant based milk like coconut milk for richness or oat milk for extra creaminess Maple syrup or agave work beautifully instead of honey for a mellow sweetness

Serving Suggestions

This latte is right at home alongside light pastries tea sandwiches or fresh summer fruit For parties set out little bowls of lemon slices and edible flowers so everyone can create their own color effect It is a lovely pick me up for garden brunches or simply as a beautiful treat after work

Cultural and Historical Context

Butterfly pea flower tea has long been enjoyed in Southeast Asian countries especially Thailand and Vietnam The flowers are prized for their vivid color and cooling properties and the tea is served hot or iced sometimes with lime juice to create a magical purple hue Bringing this tradition into my kitchen always makes me feel connected to global flavors and mindful traditions

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Enjoy this magical drink and impress your guests with its dynamic colors and soothing flavors!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How does butterfly pea flower affect the color?

Butterfly pea flowers release a vibrant blue color when steeped. Adding citrus turns it purple or pink due to natural pH changes.

→ Can I use plant-based milk for this drink?

Yes, almond, oat, or coconut milk blend well and add their own gentle flavors to the final beverage.

→ What sweeteners work best?

Honey, sugar, agave, or preferred alternatives all complement the floral notes and enhance the layered presentation.

→ How can I create a distinct layered look?

Pour chilled tea over ice, then gently add the milk over the back of a spoon for clean separation of layers.

→ Is it possible to prepare the tea base ahead of time?

Yes, the blue tea can be stored chilled for up to 2 days, making quick assembly easy when ready to serve.