Have you ever wanted to serve a drink that literally changes color before your guests’ eyes? That’s exactly what happens with Butterfly Pea Tea Lemonade. This showstopper beverage isn’t just Instagram-worthy—it’s a refreshing, subtly floral drink that transforms from a deep indigo blue to vibrant purple with just a squeeze of lemon.
The first time I made this at a summer gathering, everyone stopped mid-conversation to watch the color change. There’s something magical about serving a drink that’s both a visual spectacle and deliciously refreshing.
Why This Recipe is Awesome
Butterfly Pea Tea Lemonade isn’t just a pretty face—it’s a conversation starter that doubles as a delicious, natural beverage. What makes this recipe truly special is the fascinating science behind it.
The butterfly pea flowers contain anthocyanins, natural compounds that change color when they encounter acid. Beyond the dramatic color transformation, this drink offers a delicate, earthy flavor with subtle floral notes that pair beautifully with the bright citrus punch of fresh lemon. It’s completely natural—no artificial colors here—making it perfect for health-conscious guests or kids fascinated by “magic potions.” The versatility is another winning aspect.
You can serve it as a non-alcoholic refresher, use it as a stunning cocktail base, or even freeze it into eye-catching ice cubes for other beverages. Every time I serve this, I get to feel like part chemistry teacher, part mixologist!
Equipment needed: Saucepan, fine mesh strainer, pitcher, citrus juicer, glass jars or cups
Butterfly Pea Tea Lemonade
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons dried butterfly pea flowers available at specialty tea shops or online
- 4 cups water divided
- ¼ cup honey or sugar adjust to taste
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice about 4-5 lemons
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slices and mint sprigs for garnish
- Optional: 1 teaspoon culinary-grade lavender or 2 teaspoons dried lemongrass for flavor variations
Instructions
- Brew the butterfly pea tea: Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan. Remove from heat, add the dried butterfly pea flowers, and let steep for 5-10 minutes until the water turns a deep blue color. The longer you steep, the more intense the color will be.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh strainer into a pitcher or large measuring cup. Discard the flowers.
- Sweeten while warm: While the tea is still warm (but not hot), stir in your honey or sugar until completely dissolved. This ensures the sweetener incorporates evenly throughout the mixture.
- Add remaining water to the pitcher and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to cool completely.
- Prepare your lemon juice separately by squeezing fresh lemons. Strain out seeds and large pulp pieces.
- Assemble individual servings: Fill glasses halfway with ice cubes, then pour the blue butterfly pea tea until the glass is about ⅔ full.
- Create the color change: Pour 1-2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice into each glass and watch as the drink transforms from blue to purple!
- Garnish and serve with additional lemon slices and fresh mint for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Notes
- For a dramatic presentation, serve the butterfly pea tea and lemon juice separately, allowing guests to pour the lemon juice themselves and witness the color change.
- The intensity of the color depends on the concentration of your tea – for deeper blue, use more flowers or steep longer.
- You can prepare the butterfly pea tea concentrate up to 3 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator.
- For a more sophisticated version, add a splash of gin or vodka and a bit of elderflower liqueur.
- The tea itself has a mild, slightly earthy flavor that some compare to a very light green tea.
Calories & Nutritional Info
- Calories: Approximately 60-70 calories per serving (when made with honey)
- Carbohydrates: 16-18g (primarily from natural sugars)
- Allergens: None common, but check butterfly pea flower source if sensitive to plants
- Diet suitability: Vegan (when made with sugar instead of honey), gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free
- Benefits: Contains antioxidants from butterfly pea flowers and vitamin C from fresh lemon juice
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using boiling water on the flowers: This can make the tea taste bitter. Always remove the water from heat before adding flowers.
- Adding lemon too early: If you mix the lemon juice with the tea too far in advance, the purple color may fade to a less vibrant pinkish hue over time.
- Using bottled lemon juice: The color change is most dramatic with fresh lemon juice, and the flavor is significantly better.
- Oversteeping the tea: Beyond 10 minutes, the butterfly pea tea can develop a slightly bitter edge.
- Using too little ice: The drink is most refreshing when properly chilled, so be generous with ice.
Alternatives & Substitutions
- Sweetener options: Replace honey with agave nectar, maple syrup, or a simple syrup made with stevia for different flavor profiles or lower glycemic impact.
- Citrus variations: Try lime juice instead of lemon for a slightly different flavor and the same dramatic color change.
- Flavor enhancers: Add a sprig of rosemary, a few fresh berries, or cucumber slices for unique twists.
- Sparkling version: Substitute half the water with sparkling water added just before serving for a fizzy treat.
- Can’t find butterfly pea flowers? Some specialty tea shops sell pre-packaged butterfly pea tea bags, which work well as a substitute.
FAQs
Is butterfly pea flower tea safe to drink?
Absolutely! Butterfly pea flower has been used in traditional Southeast Asian cuisine and medicine for centuries. It contains antioxidants and is generally considered safe for consumption, though as with any herbal product, those who are pregnant or have specific health concerns should consult their doctor.
Why does the tea change color?
The magic happens because butterfly pea flowers contain a natural pH indicator called anthocyanin. When the alkaline blue tea meets acidic lemon juice, the anthocyanin molecules change their structure, creating the dramatic shift from blue to purple or even pink.
Can I make this ahead for a party?
Yes! Prepare the blue tea and lemon juice separately and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Combine them only when you’re ready to serve to preserve the dramatic color-changing effect and the freshest flavor.
Is butterfly pea tea caffeinated?
No, butterfly pea flower tea is naturally caffeine-free, making it an excellent option for an evening refresher or for those who are sensitive to caffeine.
Where can I find butterfly pea flowers?
You can find dried butterfly pea flowers at specialty tea shops, Asian grocery stores, or online retailers. They’re becoming increasingly popular, so availability has improved in recent years.
Final Thoughts
Butterfly Pea Tea Lemonade brings together simple science and beautiful flavors for a drink that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a garden party, looking for an alcohol-free option that still feels special, or simply want to bring a bit of magic to your everyday refreshment, this color-changing beverage delivers both delight and deliciousness. The best recipes create memories, and this one certainly does!
