Looking for a drink that’s as beautiful as it is refreshing? This Grape Butterfly Pea Flower Iced Tea delivers a bold splash of natural color and a unique flavor combo that’s sweet, citrusy, and herbal. It’s made with vibrant blue butterfly pea flower tea, transformed with a splash of lemon juice and grape juice into a vivid purple drink that’s as much fun to look at as it is to sip.
Perfect for brunches, parties, or just making your afternoon a little more magical, this iced tea comes together in minutes and always gets a “wow.”
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this drink because it’s minimal ingredients, maximum impact. Butterfly pea flower tea is naturally caffeine-free and known for its gorgeous blue hue. Add lemon juice and boom—it changes color due to pH chemistry. Pair that with the tart sweetness of grape juice and a handful of ice, and you’ve got a cold, calming drink that’s Insta-worthy and hydrating.
Plus, it’s great for entertaining—kids and adults both love the color-changing surprise.
Ingredients
- 1 tsp butterfly pea flower (or 1 tea bag)
- ⅓ cup grape juice
- Juice of ¼ lemon
- Ice cubes
Swaps and Notes
- Tea: Loose dried butterfly pea flowers or tea bags both work. Steep longer for a deeper blue.
- Juice: Use 100% grape juice or white grape juice for a lighter flavor and different shade.
- Lemon Juice: Fresh is best! It gives you that vibrant purple transformation.
- Sweetener: Optional—add a drizzle of honey or agave if you like your drinks sweeter.
Step-by-Step Instructions
🔹 Step 1: Steep the Tea
Place 1 tsp butterfly pea flowers (or 1 tea bag) in a cup.
Add 1 cup hot water and let steep for 15–20 minutes until it reaches a deep blue color. Let cool to room temp.
🔹 Step 2: Mix with Juice and Lemon
In a glass or small pitcher, combine the steeped tea with ⅓ cup grape juice and the juice of ¼ lemon. Stir gently.
🔹 Step 3: Add Ice and Serve
Fill a glass with ice cubes. Pour the tea mixture over the ice and watch the color swirl into a vivid purple.
Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing magic!
Tips for Success
- Steep time matters: The longer you steep, the deeper the color. Let it fully cool before mixing.
- Layer it: For a fun effect, pour grape juice slowly over the ice, then add tea and lemon for a gradient look.
- Use clear glassware: This drink is made to be seen!
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This drink is refreshing on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with light, fruity, or fun snacks like:
- Blueberry Lemonade – another colorful sipper
- Strawberry Mojito – perfect for a mocktail party
- Rainbow Sangria – great for summer brunch
- Caramel Apple Nachos – a sweet, tangy snack pairing
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs – for a decadent treat on the side
Storage and Leftovers
- Fridge: Store leftover tea base (before mixing with lemon or juice) in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Pre-mixed drink: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be kept chilled for up to 24 hours. Stir before serving.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If you love colorful, refreshing drinks, you’ll want to check out:
Final Thoughts
This Grape Butterfly Pea Flower Iced Tea is everything a summer sipper should be—refreshing, fun, and totally eye-catching. With just a few ingredients and a splash of citrus, you get a naturally vibrant drink that always makes people smile.
Tried it? Tag @chefmaniac and show off your tea art—we’d love to feature your creations! 💜🧊🍇
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