I actually tried this with a friend once when we were taking a girls ‘ trip.
It was during a beach trip in Thailand where I was served a chilled butterfly pea latte with coconut milk in a tiny bamboo cup.
I was already melting from the heat, but this really did something to me. Since then, this butterfly pea coconut milk drink has become my go-to when I want something beautiful and relaxing.
Since I work from home, I try to focus on presentation a lot – I really do eat with my eyes.
If I had to describe this drink, it would be floral, earthy, creamy, and naturally caffeine-free—perfect for winding down or when you want a treat that looks like a fairytale.
This recipe is incredibly simple, but it never fails to impress.
The coconut milk gives it a nice creaminess while the butterfly pea flowers infuse it with a naturally stunning blue color.
Add a splash of lemon or lime, and it shifts into a nice purple color.
Serve it iced for a dreamy summer refreshment, or warm for a soothing nighttime sip.
Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Tips for an Extra Tasty Butterfly Pea Coconut Milk
Getting the balance of flavors and colors just right is key. Here are a few essential tips to keep in mind:
- Use high-quality dried butterfly pea flowers for the most vibrant color. These are beautiful and organic.
- Choose full-fat canned coconut milk for a creamier texture—this is my favorite brand.
- Want your drink sweet and floral? Add a teaspoon of lavender syrup or rose syrup for café vibes.
- Use a milk frother if serving warm.
- Add the butterfly pea tea last when serving iced to keep the layers separate and if you want to post it to Instagram. It will give you that nice gradient that will make all your friends ooh and aah.
Let’s get to the recipe!
Sometimes, if I’m lazy, I’ll just have it without the coconut milk because it feels very refreshing!
Butterfly Pea Coconut Milk
Course: BreakfastDifficulty: Easy2
servings5
minutes5
minutesIngredients
1 cup hot water
1 tablespoon dried butterfly pea flowers (or 1 butterfly pea tea bag)
1 cup canned coconut milk (full-fat or lite)
1–2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup (to taste)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Ice cubes (for serving, if iced)
Optional: a few drops of lemon or lime juice for color change
Directions
- Bring 1 cup of water to a simmer and pour it over the butterfly pea flowers in a heat-safe bowl or cup.
- Let it steep for 5–7 minutes until the liquid turns a deep blue.
- Strain out the flowers using a fine mesh strainer or remove the tea bag. In a separate glass or pitcher, combine the coconut milk, sweetener, and vanilla if using. Stir until smooth.
- To serve cold, fill two glasses with ice and pour the coconut milk mixture halfway up.
- Slowly pour the butterfly pea tea over the top to create a layered effect.
- For a warm version, gently heat the coconut milk on the stovetop (don’t boil), stir in the butterfly pea tea, and pour into mugs.
- I personally use coconut milk because I love the tropical flavors it brings!
Variations and Substitutes:
For a purple version, add a splash of lemon or lime juice—it shifts the color from blue to lavender instantly.
Swap coconut milk with oat, almond, or cashew milk for a lighter version.
Add a scoop of collagen powder or vanilla protein for a functional wellness drink.
Use stevia or monk fruit for a low-calorie sweetener option.
Make it a frozen treat by blending all the ingredients with ice for a butterfly pea coconut slushie.
It’s gentle, gorgeous drink and I hope you love it!
