Butterfly Pea Flower Coffee Blue Latte Recipe
Blue lattes have been making a splash in the world of beverages, with their eye-catching colors and unique flavors. Here’s the scoop on blue latte recipe!
This trendy drink has grown in popularity among local tea shops, captivating people by its natural and mesmerizing hue.
Not only is the beautiful blue color of the butterfly pea flower tea latte (or mermaid latte) visually appealing, but it also brings a variety of health benefits, making it a perfect addition to your daily routine.
Derived from natural ingredients such as dried butterfly pea flowers or blue spirulina, blue lattes owe their vibrant color to these powerful ingredients.
Rich in powerful antioxidants, both blue butterfly pea flowers and blue spirulina are known for their numerous health benefits for the immune system.
Including reducing inflammation and enhancing cognitive function.
We’ve got the scoop on a step-by-step guide to creating your very own beautiful and nutrient-packed blue butterfly pea flower tea latte at home.
Incorporating a blue latte into your beverage repertoire is not only a great way to impress your friends and family but also an opportunity to add a healthy twist to your daily caffeine fix.
With a few simple steps and easily accessible ingredients, you can create this visually stunning and nutritious drink that will leave a lasting impression on anyone you share it with.
Get ready to put this delicious drink on your recipe card!
What is a Blue Latte?
A blue latte is a visually stunning and delicious beverage that has gained popularity due to its unique color and health benefits.
It is typically made using either whole butterfly pea flowers or blue spirulina. Both of which give the drink its characteristic blue hue.
The base of the drink is usually a combination of a cup of full-fat milk or non-dairy milk and sometimes lite coconut milk for added creaminess to the butterfly pea milk tea.
The color of a blue butterfly pea tea latte comes from the natural pigments found in certain ingredients.
Butterfly pea flowers from south east asia, for instance, contain a pigment called anthocyanin. Which works like a natural dye, as it turns deep purple when steeped in hot water.
These butterfly pea flowers are also known by the names of clitoria ternatea and asian pigeonwings.
When combined with any kind of milk, the color made by the Clitorea Ternatea flower transforms into a beautiful shade of blue.
Alternatively, blue spirulina, a type of algae, can be used to achieve a similar vibrant hue.
Health Benefits
In addition to its striking appearance, a blue latte offers various health benefits.
Butterfly blue pea flowers are known for their antioxidant properties, which can help protect against cell damage.
On the other hand, spirulina, which is used in Ayurvedic medicine, is a superfood loaded with nutrients, protein, and antioxidants.
Making it an excellent addition to a healthy diet that also helps with weight loss.
Preparing a blue tea latte, or beautiful blue matcha latte, is relatively straightforward.
For a butterfly pea flower latte, you’ll need to steep the flowers in hot water for around five minutes, then strain the tea into a glass with ice cubes, cup of milk, and a touch of vanilla extract or simple syrup for sweetness.
If using spirulina, you’ll need to whisk together non-dairy milk, lite coconut milk, and blue spirulina in a pot over low heat.
Include spices like cinnamon and ginger for added flavor.
To sum up, a blue latte is a unique and visually appealing beverage that’s not only a treat for the eyes but also for the taste buds and one’s overall health.
Its captivating color and potential health benefits make it a trendy and delightful option for those looking to try something new and exciting in their daily beverage routine.
Blue Latte Ingredients
Here’s the scoop on the various ingredients used to make a delicious and eye-catching blue latte.
We will divide it into three subsections: Base Options, Sweeteners and Add-Ins, and Color Options.
Base Options
A blue latte can be created with different types of milk, offering a range of flavors and textures.
A variety of plant-based milk options are suitable for those who prefer a dairy-free, vegan drink.
Here are some common base options:
- Regular milk: whole, skim, or low-fat
- Oat milk: a popular plant-based milk choice
- Almond milk: another widely-used nut milk
- Soy milk: a rich, creamy milk substitute
- Cashew milk: a creamier nut milk option
- Coconut milk: adds an exotic, tropical flavor
Sweeteners and Add-Ins
The blue latte can be sweetened and flavored to suit individual tastes.
Some common sweeteners and add-ins to enhance the blue butterfly pea flower tastes include:
- Honey: a natural sweetener, adds a touch of floral flavor
- Maple syrup: a vegan sweetener with rich, earthy flavors
- Agave: another vegan friendly, mild-tasting sweetener
- Vanilla extract: enhances flavor and adds a hint of sweetness
- Cinnamon: a touch of spice for warmth and depth
- Ginger: a zesty addition for a little heat
- Nutmeg: a warm, aromatic spice with a woody flavor that’s often used with cinnamon
- Lemon/Lime (lemon juice or lime juice): a squeeze of lemon or lime adds freshness and brightness
- Mint: a cooling touch, ideal for cold drinks such as iced lattes
- Lavender dried flowers: a fragrant, floral addition
Whether you choose to use a sweet or acidic ingredient to enhance your blue latte flavor, remember to incorporate your favorite ingredients to make this drink a more original creation.
Color Options
The distinctive blue color of a blue latte is achieved using natural colorants.
Common sources of this vibrant hue include:
- Butterfly pea flowers: have color-changing properties which provide a rich, deep blue color when steeped in hot water. Sourced from Southeast Asian countries, butterfly pea flowers can be used whole, in powdered form, or as a tea.
- Blue spirulina: a type of nutrient-dense blue-green algae that imparts a lovely blue color to drinks. Blue spirulina is often added in powdered form and adds unique health benefits.
- Blue matcha: a mix of ground butterfly pea flowers and matcha, this ingredient results in a unique blue color with the added benefits of green matcha tea.
To make a blue butterfly pea flower latte, select a base option and heat it in a saucepan.
Meanwhile, steep the chosen color option in hot water (butterfly pea flowers, blue spirulina, or blue matcha).
Strain the colored water and add it to the milk base.
Mix in the preferred sweeteners and add-ins using a hand blender or bamboo whisk. Pour the mixture into a serving mug or mason jar.
Top with ice cubes for an iced butterfly pea latte, and an optional shot of espresso for extra flavor.
For a different color change, experiment with different add-in ingredients and see what kind of hot drink you get.
Enjoy your beautiful and delicious blue latte!
Blue Latte Recipe
The Blue Latte is a visually stunning and delicious beverage, perfect for those who want to try something different from their typical coffee or tea.
Here’s the scoop on step-by-step instructions to create a delightful Blue Latte, along with some alternative variations.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat 1 cup of non-dairy milk (e.g., almond milk, oat milk) and 1/2 cup of lite coconut milk in a medium pot until combined. Bring the mixture to a low boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer, and add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ginger, and 1 teaspoon of blue spirulina or butterfly pea flower blue powder. Whisk together and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and add sweetener (e.g., honey, agave) to taste. Froth with a handheld milk frother or whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the blue latte into your favorite mug and enjoy!
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Alternative Variations
- Butterfly Pea Flower Latte: Replace blue spirulina with the butterfly blue pea flowers powder for a different blue shade and floral taste. Steep butterfly pea flowers in hot water for about 5-10 minutes, then strain the liquid and add it to the milk mixture.
- Blue Algae Latte: Use blue spirulina powder instead of blue butterfly pea powder for an extra boost of antioxidants and a vibrant blue color. Mix the blue spirulina with the heated milk, and froth or whisk until well combined.
- Blue Curacao White Chocolate Latte: For a winter treat, you can try using blue curacao syrup and white chocolate in the milk mixture. Blend the white chocolate with hot milk, add blue curacao syrup, and froth until smooth and creamy.
Feel free to mix and match ingredients and flavors to create your perfect Blue Latte.
Remember, this beverage is all about creativity and fun, so enjoy the process and savor the taste, whether you’re having an iced drink with added vanilla powder or a caffeine-free latte with an herbal tea base.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Information
Blue lattes are a delicious and fun alternative to regular lattes, offering both unique color and potential health benefits.
One of the key ingredients in a blue latte is blue spirulina, a natural pigment derived from blue-green algae.
This ingredient is rich in antioxidants, which can help combat cellular damage and support overall health.
In terms of nutritional information, a typical blue latte may contain:
- Calories: Depending on the type of milk used, an average blue latte would have around 150-200 calories per serving.
- Fats: Most of the fats come from the milk, typically containing a mix of unsaturated fats, saturated fats, and cholesterol, varying based on the type of milk used.
- Carbohydrates: A blue latte will generally have around 10-20g of carbohydrates, mostly originating from the milk and any sweeteners added.
- Sugar: Blue lattes usually contain some added sweeteners, such as honey or agave, which may contribute to 10-15g of sugar (coconut sugar or brown sugar) per serving. Be mindful of the added sugars, as excessive consumption can lead to increased blood sugar levels.
- Sodium: Depending on the milk used, sodium content can range from 50-200mg per serving.
- Caffeine: The amount of caffeine will vary based on any additional espresso or coffee added to the recipe. If you are preparing a blue matcha latte, the caffeine content may be lower than that of a traditional coffee latte.
While blue lattes may offer some nutrients from the milk used, their primary appeal lies in their high antioxidant content, thanks to blue spirulina.
Antioxidants can help protect against free radicals, promote better skin health, and support immune function, making blue lattes a healthy and enjoyable addition to one’s diet.
However, it’s important to remember that consuming a blue latte alone won’t provide all the necessary nutrients for a balanced diet.
Incorporating a variety of high-quality, nutrient-dense foods alongside the occasional blue latte can help ensure adequate intake of essential vitamins and minerals.
Serving and Storage
When serving a blue latte, presentation is key. Choose a transparent mug or glass to showcase the striking color of the drink.
For hot lattes, use a pre-warmed mug to help maintain the temperature of the beverage.
For an iced latte, fill the glass with ice cubes just before pouring in the blue milk mixture and espresso or tea base from tea leaves.
This will keep the drink cold and also create an appealing layered effect.
If you decide to opt for a green tea base, be creative with what you use, even if that means incorporating hibiscus tea.
To garnish your blue latte, consider adding a sprinkle of blue matcha or butterfly pea flower powder on top of the foamy milk.
This will not only enhance the visual appeal, but also add a subtle hint of flavor.
Alternatively, you can also use edible flowers or a cinnamon stick for a more natural and rustic presentation.
Storing your blue latte ingredients is an essential part of maintaining the quality and freshness of your drinks.
Here are a few storage tips:
- Blue matcha or butterfly pea flower powder: Store in an airtight container, preferably in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will prevent the powder from clumping and losing its vibrant color.
- Milk: Fresh milk or milk alternatives (such as almond or soy milk) should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature below 40°F (4°C). Be sure to check the expiration date and consume within the recommended time frame.
- Espresso or tea base: Brewed espresso or hot tea should be used fresh for the best flavor. Make the espresso in an espresso machine and use it while it’s hot. If you need to store it for a short period, keep it in a thermally insulated container to preserve the temperature and prevent flavor changes.
- Leftover iced latte: If you have any remaining iced blue latte, store it in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to a day. Be aware that the ice cubes will eventually melt, diluting the drink.
Remember that the quality of your ingredients plays a significant role in the final taste of your blue latte.
By following these storage and serving suggestions, you can ensure that your drinks are not just beautiful to look at, but also delicious and enjoyable to consume.
You could even serve this beautiful drink with a subtle flavor of flowers with rice dishes.
Troubleshooting and Tips
Here’s the scoop on some common issues and solutions related to blue latte recipes, as well as tips to help you achieve the best results, and gain attention on platforms like Instagram.
Achieving the Perfect Blue Color
Sometimes, the blue color in a blue latte might not be as vibrant as you’d like it to be.
Here are some tips for achieving the ideal blue shade:
- Make sure to use high-quality ingredients, such as butterfly pea flower powder or blue spirulina, as they can create a more vivid color.
- The color intensity may vary depending on the milk used. For a brighter hue, you can use white, non-dairy milk alternatives like almond or coconut milk.
- To ensure an even color distribution, thoroughly mix the ingredients. If you’re using blue spirulina, mix it with a small amount of heated milk first before adding it to the full batch to avoid clumping.
Instagram-worthy Presentation
If you’re looking to share your blue latte creation on Instagram, presentation is crucial.
Here are some tips to make your latte look eye-catching for your social media:
- Make use of contrast: Pour the blue milk mixture over some regular milk, ice, or pour a double shot of espresso on top to create layers in your latte.
- Use a clear glass to showcase the unique blue color and layers.
- Garnish your latte with a sprinkle of colorful flowers or edible glitter to make your post stand out.
Improving Flavor and Texture
While a blue latte should look inviting, it should also taste great.
Try these tips for enhancing flavor and texture:
- Add spices like cinnamon, ginger, or nutmeg to the milk mixture, as they can provide additional flavor and depth.
- If you prefer a sweeter latte, consider using honey or maple syrup as natural sweeteners.
- For a creamy and frothy texture, you can use a milk frother to aerate the milk before adding it to your latte.
By following these troubleshooting tips and suggestions, you’ll be on your way to creating a delicious, visually stunning, and Instagram-worthy blue butterfly tea latte.
Final Thoughts
The blue latte recipe offers a unique and visually stunning twist to the traditional latte experience.
With its mesmerizing blue hue, derived from natural ingredients like butterfly pea flower or spirulina, this latte captivates both the eyes and the taste buds.
Beyond its striking appearance, the blue latte surprises with its delicate and delightful flavor profile, which can range from subtle floral notes to refreshing, earthy undertones, depending on the chosen ingredients.
This beverage has gained popularity not only for its vibrant Instagram-worthy appearance but also for its potential health benefits, as some ingredients used in the recipe are rich in antioxidants and nutrients.
Whether enjoyed for a moment of relaxation or as an intriguing conversation starter at coffee shops or gatherings, the blue latte undoubtedly adds a touch of novelty and excitement to the coffee experience.
So, step out of your comfort zone, indulge in the enchanting world of blue lattes, and delight in a memorable and visually enchanting coffee indulgence.
Blue Latte Recipe
Not only is the beautiful blue color of the butterfly pea flower tea latte (or mermaid latte) visually appealing, but it also brings a variety of health benefits, making it a perfect addition to your daily routine.
Ingredients
- 1 cup choice of milk
- 1/2 cup of lite coconut milk
- 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of ginger
- 1 teaspoon of blue spirulina or butterfly pea flower powder
- Sweetener of choice (e.g., honey, agave, cinnamon)
Instructions
- Heat 1 cup of non-dairy milk (e.g., almond milk, oat milk) and 1/2 cup of lite coconut milk in a medium pot until combined. Bring the mixture to a low boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer, and add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ginger, and 1 teaspoon of blue spirulina or butterfly pea flower blue powder. Whisk together and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and add sweetener (e.g., honey, agave) to taste. Froth with a handheld milk frother or whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the blue latte into your favorite mug and enjoy!
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