Looking for a refreshing beverage that’s as delicious as it is beautiful? Butterfly pea flower boba tea is the perfect solution for those hot summer days when you need something special to cool down. We’re excited to share Chabuca’s exclusive recipes for creating this vibrant blue beverage at home.
What Makes Butterfly Pea Flower Bubble Tea Special?
Butterfly pea flower (Clitoria ternatea) creates a stunning natural blue color that transforms your bubble tea into a visual masterpiece while offering subtle floral notes that complement the creaminess of milk tea perfectly.
Recipe 1: Classic Butterfly Pea Flower Milk Tea
Preparation: 15 minutes
Making Time: 5 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Ingredients (1 serving)
- 0.07 oz (2g) dried butterfly pea flowers
- 1 black tea bag
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) condensed milk
- 3.7 fl oz (110ml) whipping cream
- Ice cubes, tapioca pearls, or jelly (as needed)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Create the butterfly pea flower extract
Place the dried butterfly pea flowers in a glass, add 2 fl oz (60ml) of boiling water, and stir thoroughly. Cover and let steep for 15 minutes to extract the rich blue color.
Prepare the tea base
In a separate glass, steep the black tea bag in 3.7 fl oz (110ml) of boiling water. Press the tea bag gently with a spoon for even infusion. Cover and steep for 15 minutes, then remove the tea bag.
Create the milk tea mixture
Add 2 tbsp (30ml) the condensed milk and 1/3 fl oz (10ml) of whipping cream to your tea. Stir continuously for one minute until perfectly blended.
Assemble your bubble tea
Fill your milk tea glass with ice cubes, then pour in 1.35 fl oz (40ml) of the butterfly pea flower extract, followed by 3.4 fl oz (100ml) of whipping cream. Garnish with a few dried butterfly pea flowers for an elegant finish. You can add toppings like tapioca pearls or jelly, depending on your preference.
Tasting Notes
The finished butterfly pea flower bubble tea presents a beautiful sea-blue layer contrasting with the creamy white milk layer. The sweet fragrance of the milk tea combined with the rich creaminess creates an unforgettable taste experience that will have you coming back for more.
Recipe 2: Gourmet Butterfly Pea Flower Macchiato with Coconut Cream
Preparation: 10 minutes
Making Time: 15 minutes
Chilling Time: 4 hours
Difficulty Level: Intermediate
Ingredients (2 servings)
- 1 tea bag (filter)
- 1 oz (30g) butterfly pea flowers
- 1.2 oz (35g) white chocolate
- 2.6 oz (75g) condensed milk
- 11.3 oz (320g) whipping cream
- 6.1 fl oz (180ml) milk (sweetened or unsweetened)
- 3.7 fl oz (110ml) coconut cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Ice cubes, tapioca pearls, or jelly (as needed)
Where to Find Coconut Cream
You can purchase quality coconut cream at most supermarkets, natural food stores, baking supply shops, or through trusted online retailers.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the butterfly pea coconut mixture
In a pot, combine the coconut cream with 0.7 oz (20g) butterfly pea flowers. Heat over medium heat, stirring until it simmers and develops a vivid blue color. Remove from heat and strain the mixture into a bowl containing the white chocolate. While still hot, whisk until the chocolate melts completely.
Create and freeze the coconut cream
In a separate bowl, whip 7.8 oz (220g) of whipping cream until fluffy and thick. Add 1.8 oz (50g) condensed milk and the blue chocolate mixture, then stir until well combined. Pour into a mold and refrigerate for approximately 4 hours until firm.
Brew the butterfly pea tea
In a teapot, combine 0.35 oz (10g) butterfly pea flowers with a tea bag, then add 10 fl oz (300ml) of hot water. Allow to steep for 10-15 minutes until the water turns a rich blue color, then remove the tea bag.
Prepare the macchiato layer
Whip 3.5 oz (100g) whipping cream until fluffy. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt, 2 tablespoons milk, and 3 tablespoons condensed milk, then stir until fully incorporated.
Assemble your gourmet bubble tea
Fill a glass with ice cubes, you can add toppings like tapioca pearls or jelly if needed, then pour in 5 fl oz (150ml) milk and a splash of butterfly pea flower tea. Top with the macchiato layer and finish with 1-2 pieces of the frozen coconut cream.
Tasting Notes
This elevated butterfly pea flower bubble tea creation offers multiple layers of flavor and texture. You’ll experience the delicate floral notes of the butterfly pea flowers, followed by the slightly salted creaminess of the macchiato, and finally the sweet, refreshing coconut cream. It’s a sophisticated beverage perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself on warm days.
How to Select High-Quality Butterfly Pea Flowers
As with any herbal ingredient, quality matters greatly when creating the perfect boba tea. Here’s what to look for:
Fresh Butterfly Pea Flowers
- Select flowers with vibrant blue color
- Look for intact petals without bruising
- Ensure freshness with no wilting
Dried Butterfly Pea Flowers
- Choose properly sealed packages
- Verify clear origin information and manufacturing details
- Check for vibrant color retention
- Confirm expiration dates are valid
What to Avoid
- Discolored or faded flowers
- Damp packaging (indicates improper storage)
- Expired products
- Unknown sources
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use butterfly pea powder instead of flowers?
A: Yes, butterfly pea powder works as an alternative. Use approximately 1/4 teaspoon per cup for similar coloring.
Q: Is butterfly pea flower bubble tea caffeine-free?
A: The butterfly pea flower tea itself is caffeine-free, but these recipes include black tea which contains caffeine.
Q: How long can I store dried butterfly pea flowers?
A: When properly stored in an airtight container away from light and moisture, dried butterfly pea flowers can maintain their quality for up to six months.