As I stood in my kitchen, vibrant petals of butterfly pea flowers caught the sunlight, transforming my usual tea ritual into a delight for the senses. This Iced Blue Tea Latte Recipe is a summer standout, showcasing a stunning deep blue hue that begs to be sipped on warm afternoons. With its subtle earthy flavor and topped with a luscious vanilla cold foam, this drink not only brightens up your day but also brings a touch of café magic into your home. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple preparation—perfect for those moments when you crave something refreshing without the fuss. Plus, it’s easily adaptable for a dairy-free twist, making it a crowd-pleaser for everyone! Ready to sip on something extraordinary? Let’s jump into this beautifully refreshing treat!
Why is Blue Tea Latte a Must-Try?
Vibrant Colors: This drink is a visual feast, showcasing a stunning deep blue that will impress your guests.
Easy to Make: In just a few simple steps, you can whip up this café-inspired beverage at home—perfect for a quick refreshment.
Dairy-Free Option: Enjoy the rich flavors of the Blue Tea Latte without dairy by using almond or oat milk as a creamy alternative!
Flavorful and Refreshing: The earthy notes of butterfly pea flower tea combined with smooth vanilla cold foam create a delightful summer sip.
Perfect for Gatherings: With its eye-catching color and delicious taste, this latte is sure to be a conversation starter at brunch or summer parties.
For more exciting beverages, don’t miss out on our Pumpkin Spice Latte and explore the Chewy Pumpkin Cookies for a delightful pairing!
Iced Blue Tea Latte Ingredients
• Refreshing ingredients for your summer drink!
For the Blue Tea
- Dried Butterfly Pea Flowers – The star of this iced blue tea latte recipe, providing that stunning blue color and unique earthy taste.
- Hot Water – Essential for steeping the flowers and releasing their vibrant hue and flavor.
For the Vanilla Cold Foam
- Ice-Cold Whole Milk (or Oat/Almond) – The base for your cold foam; choose whole milk for a creamy texture or non-dairy options for a lighter, dairy-free treat.
- Vanilla Syrup – Sweetens the latte beautifully; use homemade or store-bought, adjusting to your taste to enhance the tea’s flavors without overwhelming them.
For Serving
- Ice Cubes – Keeps your latte refreshingly cold and adds a stunning visual element when served.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Iced Blue Tea Latte Recipe
Step 1: Brew the Blue Tea
Begin by heating 1 cup of water to just before boiling, around 200°F. Add 1 tablespoon of dried butterfly pea flowers to the hot water and let them steep for 5–7 minutes until the water transforms into a stunning deep blue hue. Once brewed, strain the flowers using a fine mesh sieve and allow the tea to cool slightly at room temperature.
Step 2: Make the Vanilla Cold Foam
In a blender, combine ⅓ cup of ice-cold milk (dairy or non-dairy) with 1 tablespoon of vanilla syrup. Blend for about 10 seconds until the mixture appears smooth and foamy, achieving that lovely airy texture. If you don’t have a blender, use a frother, French press, or sealed jar to create a luscious, creamy cold foam.
Step 3: Assemble the Latte
Take a tall glass and fill it generously with ice cubes to keep your drink refreshingly cold. Pour in the cooled blue tea, watching the vibrant color swirl around. Next, gently spoon or pour the vanilla cold foam on top, creating a beautiful layered effect that makes the Iced Blue Tea Latte visually stunning.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Present your Iced Blue Tea Latte with care by showcasing its striking colors in a clear glass. You can maintain the layers for a more dramatic presentation, or stir it gently to mix the flavors before sipping. This delightful drink is perfect for summer afternoons or to impress your friends at brunch gatherings!
Iced Blue Tea Latte Variations
Customize your Iced Blue Tea Latte and let your creativity flow with these delicious twists and swaps!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute almond or oat milk for a lactose-free delight. This makes the beverage light and airy, perfect for summer sips.
- Flavor Infusion: Add flavored syrups like caramel or hazelnut to enhance sweetness and create an enticing flavor profile. Don’t shy away from mixing it up; you might just find your favorite combination!
- Citrus Twist: A squeeze of lemon or lime can brighten the drink and shift the color to a lovely purple. This addition aligns perfectly with warm weather refreshment.
- Fruity Touch: Toss in some fresh berries or slices of kiwi to take it to a new level. Not only does it introduce a splash of color, but the fruity notes will dance on your palate.
- Herbal Essence: Include a sprig of mint or basil for a refreshing aromatic touch. This herbaceous note pairs beautifully with the earthy butterfly pea flowers.
- Iced Version: Serve it as an iced tea by brewing stronger tea, then chilling it in the fridge. This is perfect for those who enjoy a stronger flavor profile in their beverages!
- Sweeten it Up: Adjust the vanilla syrup to your preference or even try honey for a more natural sweetness. Each option gives a unique twist to the classic flavor!
- Coconut Cream: Top your latte with whipped coconut cream instead of vanilla foam for a tropical flair. This rich texture compliments the drink beautifully.
For more beverage inspiration, be sure to check out our delightful Chewy Pumpkin Cookies to enjoy alongside!
Make Ahead Options
These Iced Blue Tea Latte recipes are a dream for busy home cooks! You can brew the blue tea up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container to maintain its vibrant color and flavor. Additionally, the vanilla cold foam can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 24 hours; just make sure to give it a quick whisk or blend before serving to reintroduce the froth. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply pour the cooled blue tea over ice and top with the refreshed cold foam for that café-quality experience. This way, you can savor a refreshing sip without the last-minute rush, making your summer afternoons feel a little more special!
How to Store and Freeze Iced Blue Tea Latte
Fridge: Store any leftover brewed blue tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows you to enjoy this refreshing drink later!
Freezer: If you’d like to freeze the blue tea, pour it into ice cube trays and freeze for up to 2 months. Use these cubes to chill future lattes without diluting the flavor.
Cold Foam Storage: It’s best to make the vanilla cold foam fresh each time for optimal texture. However, if you have leftovers, store them in the fridge and use within 1 day, giving it a light whisk before serving.
Reheating: If you’ve prepared the blue tea and want to savor it warm, gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat. Avoid boiling to preserve the flavor of your Iced Blue Tea Latte recipe.
Expert Tips for Iced Blue Tea Latte
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Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality dried butterfly pea flowers for the best flavor and vibrant color in your iced blue tea latte recipe.
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Proper Steeping Time: Steep the flowers for 5–7 minutes to ensure a deep blue hue; steeping too long can result in an overly bitter taste.
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Chill Your Milk: Using ice-cold milk is essential for achieving stable, creamy cold foam that complements the tea’s earthy notes.
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Experiment with Flavors: Enhance the drink by trying different flavored syrups or adding fresh fruit; this can create a delightful twist on the classic recipe.
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Layer for Presentation: When serving, maintain the layered look of the latte for a stunning visual; it enhances the experience before your guests even take a sip!
What to Serve with Refreshing Blue Tea Latte
A perfect summer treat, this vibrant drink pairs beautifully with various dishes to enhance your culinary journey.
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Fluffy Scones: The light and buttery texture of freshly baked scones complements the creamy cold foam, making each sip and bite a delightful experience.
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Fruit Salad: A medley of juicy, seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the earthy notes of the blue tea, elevating your afternoon escape.
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Crispy Veggie Chips: Their crunchy texture provides a satisfying contrast to the silky smoothness of your latte, perfect for a light snack.
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Mini Quiches: Savory mini quiches filled with fresh herbs and cheese create a wonderful balance with the sweet vanilla notes in the drink.
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Chocolate Macarons: These delicate, airy treats pair wonderfully with the blue tea’s floral flavors, bringing a touch of indulgence to your warm afternoons.
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Lemon Tarts: The tangy brightness of lemon tarts cuts through the creaminess, enhancing the drink’s flavors while adding a fresh burst of sweetness.
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Sparkling Water: A glass of refreshing sparkling water cleanses the palate between sips, keeping your taste buds tuned for the next delightful taste.
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Fresh Mint Tea: For a complementary beverage, serve a refreshing mint tea alongside to enhance the floral undertones of the blue tea latte.
Iced Blue Tea Latte Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best dried butterfly pea flowers?
Absolutely! For the best results, look for vibrant, whole dried butterfly pea flowers without any dark spots or signs of aging. Freshly harvested flowers will provide a richer color and more robust flavor when steeped.
How should I store leftover blue tea?
You can refrigerate any leftover brewed blue tea in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy it later without losing its vibrant color or delightful flavor!
Can I freeze blue tea for later use?
Very! Pour any leftover blue tea into ice cube trays and freeze them for up to 2 months. These handy cubes can be added to future lattes to keep them cold without diluting the flavor.
What if my cold foam isn’t frothy enough?
If your cold foam isn’t achieving that creamy texture, ensure your milk is ice-cold before blending. You can also try using a frother or French press if you don’t see the desired results. Whipping it longer or using a different milk, such as a barista blend oat or almond milk, can help achieve that stable foam.
Is this recipe suitable for those with dairy allergies?
Yes! The Iced Blue Tea Latte recipe can easily be made dairy-free by substituting ice-cold almond or oat milk for the whole milk. These options provide a creamy texture and a lighter, refreshing taste without any dairy.
Can I make the vanilla cold foam ahead of time?
While it’s best to prepare the cold foam fresh for optimal texture, you can store any leftover foam in the fridge for up to 1 day. Just remember to give it a light whisk before serving to restore its frothiness!
Iced Blue Tea Latte Recipe: Refreshing Summer Sip Sensation
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by heating 1 cup of water to just before boiling, around 200°F. Add 1 tablespoon of dried butterfly pea flowers and let steep for 5–7 minutes until the water turns deep blue. Strain and cool slightly.
- In a blender, combine ⅓ cup of ice-cold milk with 1 tablespoon of vanilla syrup. Blend for about 10 seconds until smooth and foamy.
- Fill a tall glass with ice cubes. Pour in the cooled blue tea, then gently spoon or pour the vanilla cold foam on top.
- Serve your Iced Blue Tea Latte in a clear glass to showcase its colors. Stir to mix flavors or enjoy the layers.
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