Have you ever seen a popsicle so stunningly vibrant that it feels like summer bottled up in ice? Welcome to the world of butterfly pea flower lemonade popsicles! These beauties aren’t just a feast for your taste buds—they’re also a visual delight, with their dreamy shades of blue and purple. Perfect for those hot days when you need something refreshing and Instagram-worthy. Trust me, this easy recipe will have you feeling like a kitchen artist in no time.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, lounging by the pool, or just craving something cool, these popsicles are the perfect pick-me-up. And the best part? They’re made with simple, natural ingredients, so you can enjoy their magic guilt-free. Plus, there’s a fun science trick involved—the butterfly pea flower changes color when mixed with acidic lemonade. Ready to wow your friends and family? Let’s dive in!
Recipe Story and Background
Butterfly pea flower lemonade popsicles are inspired by the traditional Southeast Asian drink made with butterfly pea flower tea. Known for its natural blue hue, this tea has been used for centuries in countries like Thailand and Malaysia, not only for its refreshing taste but also for its health benefits. The popsicle version takes this classic beverage to a whole new level, freezing it into a summer-friendly format that’s as fun to eat as it is to look at.
I first discovered butterfly pea flower tea during a trip to Thailand, where it was served with a squeeze of lime, instantly transforming the drink into an enchanting purple color. It felt like a little magic trick in a glass! When I got back home, I couldn’t stop experimenting with it—adding it to cocktails, desserts, and eventually, popsicles. These popsicles quickly became a summer staple in my house, not just because of their refreshing taste but also because they’re a hit with kids and adults alike.
This recipe is perfect for summer, but honestly, I’ve been known to make them year-round. They’re a great way to brighten up a gloomy day with a pop of vibrant color. Whether you’re celebrating the peak of butterfly pea flower season or just looking for a fun project to do with the family, these popsicles are a must-try.
Ingredient Discussion
Let’s talk about what makes these popsicles so magical—starting with the butterfly pea flower. This ingredient is the star of the show, creating the striking blue base and reacting with lemonade to produce hues of purple. You can find dried butterfly pea flowers online or at specialty Asian grocery stores. Alternatively, some brands sell pre-made butterfly pea flower tea, which works just as well. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even grow your own plant if you have a green thumb!
Next up, lemonade. For this recipe, I recommend using freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor. You can sweeten it with sugar, honey, or even agave syrup if you prefer a natural alternative. If lemons aren’t in season, lime juice is a great substitute—it adds an extra tang that complements the butterfly pea flower beautifully.
For sweeteners, I personally love using a mix of honey and granulated sugar. Honey brings a floral note that pairs wonderfully with the tea, while sugar ensures the popsicles freeze with the perfect texture. If you’re watching your sugar intake, stevia or monk fruit sweeteners can also be used, though the freezing process might be slightly different.
Finally, don’t forget water and ice molds. Water helps dilute the tea slightly, ensuring the popsicles aren’t too strong, while the molds shape your creations. If you don’t have popsicle molds, you can get creative—small plastic cups with wooden sticks work just fine!
Equipment Needed
- Popsicle molds (or small plastic cups as an alternative)
- Wooden popsicle sticks
- Medium saucepan
- Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Kettle or pot for boiling water
If you don’t have popsicle molds, don’t worry! You can use ice cube trays or small cups with aluminum foil to hold the sticks in place. Just be sure to freeze them upright for the best results. Also, a mesh strainer is key for separating the butterfly pea flowers from the tea—it ensures no stray petals end up in the popsicles.
Preparation Method
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups (480 ml) of water to a boil. Add 2 tablespoons (about 6 grams) of dried butterfly pea flowers or 2 tea bags. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and strain the tea using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth. Let the tea cool to room temperature.
- In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup (240 ml) of freshly squeezed lemon juice with ½ cup (100 grams) of sugar or your preferred sweetener. Adjust sweetness to taste.
- Combine the cooled butterfly pea flower tea with the lemonade mixture. Watch the magic happen as the liquid changes color!
- Pour the mixture into popsicle molds, leaving about ¼ inch (0.6 cm) of space at the top to allow for expansion when freezing.
- Insert wooden sticks into each mold and freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight.
- To remove the popsicles from the molds, run them under warm water for a few seconds and gently twist. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Tips and Techniques
Here are a few tricks I’ve learned while making these popsicles:
- Don’t skip straining the tea; any leftover petals can make the texture uneven.
- If you want a layered effect, freeze the butterfly pea flower tea first, then add the lemonade layer after the first layer is partially frozen.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of sea salt to the lemonade—it enhances the sweetness and tanginess.
- If your popsicle sticks keep floating, cover the molds with aluminum foil and pierce the sticks through for stability.
- Experiment with other citrus juices, like orange or grapefruit, for unique color variations.
Variations and Adaptations
These popsicles are wonderfully versatile! Here are a few ideas to change them up:
- Low-sugar option: Use a natural sweetener like monk fruit or stevia.
- Seasonal twist: Add fresh berries or mint leaves to the molds for a burst of flavor.
- Dairy-free creaminess: Mix coconut milk with the butterfly pea flower tea for creamy popsicles.
- Cocktail version: Add a splash of vodka or gin for an adult treat.
- Herbal infusion: Steep a few sprigs of lavender or rosemary along with the butterfly pea flowers for an aromatic twist.
Serving and Storage Suggestions
Serve these popsicles straight from the freezer for the best texture and flavor. Pair them with a tall glass of iced green tea or a refreshing summer salad for a complete snack. They also make a stunning garnish for cocktails—just pop one into a glass and watch your drink transform.
To store, keep the popsicles in their molds or transfer them to an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. They’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 weeks, though I doubt they’ll last that long! To reheat (just kidding!), simply enjoy them as is—they’re meant to be eaten frozen.
Nutritional Information and Benefits
Each popsicle contains approximately:
- Calories: 50
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Sugar: 10g
- Vitamin C: 20% of daily value
Butterfly pea flower is rich in antioxidants, which can help combat oxidative stress. Lemon juice is a great source of vitamin C, supporting your immune system and promoting healthy skin. These popsicles are naturally caffeine-free, making them a kid-friendly treat.
Conclusion
Butterfly pea flower lemonade popsicles are more than just a dessert—they’re an experience. The vibrant colors, refreshing flavors, and easy preparation make them a go-to recipe for summer. Whether you’re sharing them with friends, making them with family, or indulging solo, they’re guaranteed to brighten your day.
I love how versatile this recipe is—there’s always room to experiment and make it your own. So, grab your ingredients, unleash your inner artist, and create your own masterpiece. I’d love to hear how yours turn out! Drop a comment below or tag me on social media with your popsicle creations. Happy freezing!
FAQs
Can I use butterfly pea flower powder instead of dried flowers?
Yes, you can! Use about 1 teaspoon of powder dissolved in the boiling water. Strain if needed to remove any clumps.
Can I make this recipe sugar-free?
Absolutely! Use stevia, monk fruit, or another sugar-free sweetener. Just be sure to adjust the amount to taste.
How long do these popsicles take to freeze?
They need at least 6 hours to fully freeze, but overnight is best for perfect results.
Can I use molds of different shapes?
Of course! Heart-shaped molds, star molds, or even simple ice cube trays work wonderfully.
What other drinks can I turn into popsicles?
Try turning iced tea, fruit juices, or even smoothies into popsicles. The options are endless!