Butterfly Pea Tea Cocktail: A Non-Alcoholic Recipe

If you’re craving something that dazzles the senses without a drop of alcohol, look no further than this butterfly pea tea cocktail! It is as enchanting as a summer sunset – vibrant, soothing and utterly refreshing. With its mesmerising indigo hue, delicate floral notes, and a zingy citrus twist that transforms it into a dreamy lavender-pink, it’s a sip of pure magic in a glass.

Discover more tea recipes.

This drink is a true visual spectacle. At first glance, it’s a deep, mystical blue, like twilight captured in liquid form. But just add a splash of zesty lemon or lime, and watch as the colour shifts to a soft violet, as if by magic. The secret? Butterfly pea flowers are a natural pH-reactive ingredient that changes with acidity, making them a truly unique and exciting natural ingredient. A bit of sparkling water adds a lively fizz, while a sprig of fresh mint or a curl of citrus peel makes it as pretty as a garden in bloom – it’s so refreshing and beautiful!

The aroma is just as enchanting: lightly floral, with a whisper of earthiness from the tea, brightened by fresh citrus. It smells like a tranquil afternoon, a moment of calm in a busy day.

What Are Butterfly Pea Flowers?

Butterfly pea flowers, derived from the Clitoria ternatea plant, are vibrant blue blossoms known for their stunning color and rich antioxidant properties. These flowers have gained popularity in the culinary and beverage world due to their natural ability to add striking hues to dishes and drinks. When added to beverages, butterfly pea flowers impart a deep blue shade, which can transform into vivid purples or pinks with the addition of acidic ingredients like lemon or lime juice. This color-changing property makes them a favorite in teas, cocktails, and other creative drinks, adding visual appeal alongside their subtle, earthy flavor.

Non-Alcoholic Butterfly Pea Tea Cocktail Recipe  

Ingredients (For 1 drink)

• 200ml chilled butterfly pea tea (steep 5-6 dried flowers in hot water, then cool)  
• 30ml honey syrup (or maple syrup for a vegan twist)  
• 15ml fresh lemon or lime juice  
• 50ml sparkling water or ginger ale (for extra zing)  
• Ice cubes  
• Garnish: Lemon wheel, mint sprig, or edible flowers (optional)  

Instructions

• Brew the tea: Steep butterfly pea flowers in hot water for 5 minutes, then strain and chill.
• Sweeten: Stir honey or maple syrup into the cooled tea until dissolved.  
• Layer the magic: Fill a glass with ice, then pour in the butterfly pea tea.  
• Add fizz: Gently top with sparkling water or ginger ale.  
• The colour shift: Drizzle in citrus juice and watch the hue transform. Stir lightly for an ombré effect.  
• Garnish & serve: Add a lemon wheel or mint sprig for that final flourish.  

Variations to Try

• Tropical Twist: Swap sparkling water for coconut water, add a slice of pineapple for a breezy, island-inspired sip.  
• Berry Bliss: Muddle a few fresh blueberries before adding the tea for a deeper, fruity undertone.  

Why It’s So Special  

This isn’t just a drink, it’s an experience. Butterfly pea tea is known for its calming properties, often linked to relaxation and mental clarity. The gentle floral taste pairs beautifully with citrus, while the fizz keeps it lively and refreshing. Sip it slowly, savouring the colour play and the soothing vibe it brings.  

Perfect for garden parties, lazy afternoons, or when you simply want a drink that feels like a quiet escape, this cocktail is summer serenity in a glass. Cheers to moments of wonder!