Name: Iced Blue Tea Latte: Refreshing Summer Sip with Vanilla Foam
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 22 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon Dried Butterfly Pea Flowers (Provides blue color and earthy flavor); 1 cup Hot Water (To steep the flowers); ⅓ cup Ice-Cold Milk (Whole milk or dairy-free options like oat or almond milk); 1 tablespoon Vanilla Syrup (Adjust based on taste, homemade or store-bought); as needed Ice Cubes (To keep the drink chilled)

While scrolling through my feed, I stumbled upon an eye-catching drink that instantly grabbed my attention: the Iced Blue Tea Latte. Made from the enchanting butterfly pea flowers, this captivating beverage not only dazzles with its mesmerizing blue hue but also offers a refreshing twist that’s perfect for summer gatherings. Best of all, this easy-to-make latte can be customized with your choice of milk – whether you prefer the creaminess of whole milk or a dairy-free alternative like oat or almond milk, there’s an option for everyone. The combination of the vibrant tea and silky vanilla cold foam will have your friends asking for your secret. Curious about how to whip up this stunning drink that’s as delightful to sip as it is to photograph? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Try This Iced Blue Tea Latte?

Visual Delight: The Iced Blue Tea Latte is a feast for the eyes, boasting a stunning blue hue that will enchant your guests at any summer gathering.

Fresh and Flavorful: With the mild, earthy flavor of butterfly pea flowers, each sip is refreshing, especially when served chilled with creamy vanilla cold foam.

Customizable: You can easily tweak this drink to fit your dietary needs, using whole milk for creaminess or almond milk for a delightful dairy-free option.

Simple and Quick: This recipe is straightforward, allowing you to whip up a crowd-pleaser in just a few minutes, giving you more time to enjoy with your friends.

Showstopper for Social Media: Impress your followers with a beautiful drink that’s not only delicious but also Instagram-worthy, making it a standout on your feed.

Get ready to dazzle your taste buds and your social media!

Iced Blue Tea Latte Ingredients

For the Blue Tea
• Dried Butterfly Pea Flowers – This is the star ingredient, providing a dazzling blue color and a mild, earthy flavor.

• Hot Water – Use to properly steep the flowers, unlocking the rich, vibrant hue of the tea.

For the Vanilla Cold Foam
• Ice-Cold Milk – Opt for whole milk for creaminess, or go for oat or almond milk for a delightful dairy-free option. A barista blend works best for frothing.

• Vanilla Syrup – Adds a luscious sweetness; homemade is great, but store-bought is a convenient alternative. Feel free to adjust the quantity based on your taste.

Serving Accessories
• Ice Cubes – Keep your drink chilled and refreshing, perfect for a hot summer day.

Prepare to impress with this Iced Blue Tea Latte that’s bursting with flavor and vibrant color!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Iced Blue Tea Latte

Step 1: Brew the Blue Tea
Start by boiling water in a kettle until it reaches a rolling boil. Measure 1 tablespoon of dried butterfly pea flowers and steep them in 1 cup of hot water for 5–7 minutes until you notice a deep blue color developing. Once ready, strain the flowers using a fine mesh sieve and let the vibrant blue tea cool for a few minutes.

Step 2: Make the Vanilla Cold Foam
While the blue tea cools, prepare the vanilla cold foam. In a blender, combine ⅓ cup of ice-cold milk with 1 tablespoon of vanilla syrup. Blend on medium speed for about 10 seconds until the mixture is frothy and smooth, creating a delightful airy texture. You can also use a frother or French press for a different method if preferred.

Step 3: Assemble the Latte
Take a tall glass and fill it generously with ice cubes to keep your drink refreshingly cold. Carefully pour the cooled blue tea over the ice, allowing it to create a stunning visual layer. Next, gently spoon or pour the silky vanilla cold foam on top of the blue tea, crafting a beautiful contrast that makes the Iced Blue Tea Latte visually appealing.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, present your Iced Blue Tea Latte as a layered drink to showcase its gorgeous colors. Optionally, you can give it a gentle stir to blend the flavors for a creamy finish. Serve it immediately for an invigorating summer sip that’s bound to impress your guests, making each sip a treat for the senses.

Variations & Substitutions for Iced Blue Tea Latte

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions that enhance your Iced Blue Tea Latte experience!

Dairy-Free: Swap dairy milk for coconut, almond, or oat milk for a deliciously creamy, plant-based option. Each choice adds its unique flavor and texture, making for an exciting twist!
Alternative Sweeteners: Instead of vanilla syrup, try honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar for a different layer of sweetness. Experimentation here can elevate the drink with a personal touch!
Spiced Delights: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the milk for a warm, comforting hint that beautifully contrasts with the floral notes of the tea. It’s an unexpected riff you’ll love!
Flavor Infusions: Enhance the blue tea with a touch of lavender or mint for a refreshing herbal note. These herbs pair wonderfully with the butterfly pea flowers and offer a lovely aromatic experience.
Fruity Twist: Consider blending in some fresh fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a fruity addition. Simply muddle them at the bottom of the glass before pouring the blue tea over!
Extra Creamy Foam: For an indulgent upgrade, mix in a bit of cream cheese or whipped cream when preparing the cold foam for a richer mouthfeel that’s simply divine!
Interactive Color Change: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice into your latte for a fun, vibrant color shift from blue to purple, adding both flavor and a visual surprise!
Lemon Zest Kick: Grate some lemon zest into your cold foam for an extra zing that complements the floral flavors of the blue tea beautifully. It’s a wonderful finishing touch!

For more delightful variations, you might also enjoy these recipes: Garlic Butter Steak, Steamed Soy Ginger, or even a refreshing Chinese Pepper Steak. Each one offers a unique flavor exploration to keep your culinary adventures exciting!

Make Ahead Options

These Iced Blue Tea Lattes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can brew the blue tea and refrigerate it for up to 2 days (this ensures you’ll have vibrant tea ready to go). The vanilla cold foam can also be prepped and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours; just make sure to keep it in a sealed container to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply re-froth the cold foam before layering it over the chilled blue tea. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have a stunning iced drink to refresh your summer afternoons with minimal last-minute effort, impressing everyone with your thoughtful prep!

Expert Tips for Iced Blue Tea Latte

Quality Flowers Matter: Use high-quality dried butterfly pea flowers for the best flavor and vibrant color. Avoid faded or old flowers to prevent a dull drink.

Chill the Milk: Make sure your milk is ice-cold before frothing. This helps in achieving that light, airy texture for the cold foam, enhancing your Iced Blue Tea Latte.

Sweeten to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of vanilla syrup based on your sweetness preference. You could even experiment with other sweeteners like honey or agave.

Layer for Effect: When assembling, pour the tea slowly over the ice to maintain the beautiful blue layer. The stunning visual will wow your guests!

Serve Fresh: For the best experience, serve the latte immediately after making it. The flavors are brightest when enjoyed right away, making it the perfect refreshing treat!

What to Serve with Iced Blue Tea Latte?

Elevate your summer gatherings with vibrant pairings that perfectly complement the enchanting flavors of this delightful drink.

Crispy Lemon Bars: The zesty and sweet notes of lemon bars beautifully contrast the earthy flavor of the blue tea, creating a refreshing balance.
Chilled Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing crunch, making it a perfect light companion for the smooth latte.
Savory Mini Quiches: These bite-sized savory treats bring a warm, comforting element to the table, enhancing your summer brunch experience.
Coconut Macaroons: The chewy texture and sweet coconut flavor echo the creaminess of the vanilla foam, providing a lovely contrasting bite.
Herbal Cucumber Sandwiches: Light and refreshing, these sandwiches offer a crisp, delicate flavor that pairs well with the drink’s vibrant tea profile.
Sparkling Lemonade: Serve this rejuvenating beverage alongside your latte for a fizzy twist that complements the drink’s vivid storytelling.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: The rich sweetness of chocolate and fresh strawberries will create a decadent ending to your delightful tea experience, leaving taste buds dancing.
Pistachio Cookies: A nutty, subtly sweet cookie adds a wonderful crunch and enhances the overall flavor profile with each sip.
Mint Mojito Mocktail: This light and refreshing drink pairs delightfully with the blue tea, flushing your palate with vibrant summer flavors.

How to Store and Freeze Iced Blue Tea Latte

Fridge: Store the brewed blue tea in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This allows you to prepare it ahead of time for busy summer days.

Freezer: If you want to freeze your Iced Blue Tea Latte, consider freezing the brewed tea in ice cube trays. Use the cubes in your next latte for a refreshing twist!

Milk Storage: Keep the prepared vanilla cold foam in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Re-froth the milk just before serving to restore its airy texture.

Reheating: Since this drink is enjoyed iced, there’s no need to reheat it; just keep everything chilled for that perfect summer sip!

Iced Blue Tea Latte Recipe FAQs

What kind of butterfly pea flowers should I use?
Absolutely! Look for high-quality, vibrant dried butterfly pea flowers. Fresh, colorful petals yield the best flavor and deep blue color. Avoid faded or dusty-looking flowers, as they may result in a dull drink.

How long can I store the brewed blue tea?
You can conveniently store your brewed blue tea in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This way, you can prep ahead for those busy summer days or spontaneous get-togethers. Just give it a stir before serving!

Can I freeze my Iced Blue Tea Latte?
Yes, you can! I recommend freezing the brewed blue tea in ice cube trays. This is a fun twist for your next latte, allowing you to enjoy a refreshing sip without dilution. Just toss the frozen tea cubes into a glass and add your cold foam whenever you’re ready!

How do I keep the vanilla cold foam fresh?
Store your prepared vanilla cold foam in the fridge for up to 24 hours. However, for the best texture, re-froth the milk just before serving to restore that delightful airy consistency. Enjoy that creamy topping every time!

Can my pet drink butterfly pea tea?
While butterfly pea flowers are safe for most humans, it’s always best to consult with your vet before sharing any new foods or drinks with your pets. As a general rule, it’s wise to avoid offering anything that hasn’t been specifically recommended for them.

What if my cold foam isn’t frothing up as expected?
Very! If your cold foam isn’t reaching that perfect airy texture, make sure your milk is ice-cold before blending. Additionally, try using a frother or a French press for a more vigorous option. If all else fails, give it another quick blend to fluff it up!