Name: Butterfly Pea Milk Tea (Blue Milk Tea) Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Southeast Asian
Ingredients: a small handful of dried butterfly pea flowers; 1/2 cup water; just under 1 cup fresh milk; 1/3 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1/3 cup evaporated milk; crushed ice (quantity as desired)

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Introduction

Butterfly Pea Milk Tea, also known as Blue Milk Tea, is a visually stunning and refreshing drink that blends floral notes with creamy richness. Its vibrant blue color comes from butterfly pea flowers, creating a beautiful layered beverage perfect for any occasion.

Two tall clear glasses filled with a layered drink sit on a white marbled texture. Each glass has three visible layers: the bottom layer is creamy white, the middle layer is a lighter blue gradient, and the top layer is a rich dark blue with ice cubes. Each glass contains a metal straw, with the glass in the foreground placed on a round wooden coaster over a woven mat. Around the glasses are two bright flowers, one red and one yellow, lying on a white cloth that spreads softly across the surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

A small handful of dried butterfly pea flowers
1/2 cup water
Just under 1 cup fresh milk
1/3 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/3 cup evaporated milk

Instructions

Step 1: Heat water in a small saucepan over medium heat until it reaches a rolling boil. Add the butterfly pea flowers to the boiling water and steep for 2 minutes until the water turns a vibrant blue.
Step 2: Measure out 2.70 fl oz (80 ml) of the steeped butterfly pea liquid and set it aside for layering.
Step 3: In a separate container, thoroughly mix together the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and fresh milk until well combined.
Step 4: Fill a tall glass just under halfway with the milk mixture.
Step 5: Add crushed ice to the glass, leaving enough room at the top for the butterfly pea extract.
Step 6: Slowly pour the butterfly pea extract over the ice to create a distinct blue layer on top of the milk tea.

Tips & Variations

For added sweetness, adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk or add simple syrup to taste.
Use full-fat milk for a creamier texture, or substitute with your favorite plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.
Try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the butterfly pea tea for a natural color change to purple and a tangy twist.

Storage

Butterfly Pea Milk Tea is best enjoyed fresh. If you need to store it, keep the milk mixture and butterfly pea tea separate in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Combine and add ice just before serving. Reheating is not recommended as it may affect the texture and color.

How to Serve

Two tall clear glasses filled with a layered iced drink sit on small round wooden coasters on a white marbled surface. Each glass has three visible layers: the bottom layer is white and creamy, the middle layer is a lighter blue fading upward, and the top layer is a deep, rich blue with small ice cubes floating inside. A metal straw stands in each glass. In the foreground, a woman's hand with a medium skin tone gently holds one glass, showing well-kept nails. The background is blurred, focusing on the front glass. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh butterfly pea flowers instead of dried?

Yes, fresh butterfly pea flowers can be used. The steeping time may be slightly shorter, so watch for the water to turn a bright blue.

What if I don’t have evaporated milk?

You can substitute evaporated milk with an equal amount of fresh milk or half-and-half, but the drink may be slightly less rich.