Ocean Latte

The Ocean Latte is a visually enchanting beverage that brings the calming colors of the sea into your cup. This latte features soothing blue tones, usually created with butterfly pea flower tea, layered with milk and a touch of coffee for a smooth, slightly floral drink. Perfect for warm afternoons or a serene morning treat, the Ocean Latte is as delightful to look at as it is to sip.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Striking blue color that resembles the ocean

• A gentle blend of floral tea, milk, and a hint of coffee

• Can be served iced or warm

• Light, refreshing taste with just a mild caffeine kick

• Customizable for sweetness and milk type

• Naturally caffeine-free base when excluding coffee

• A perfect treat for tea and latte lovers alike

• Easy to prepare at home

• A relaxing drink ideal for self-care moments

• Great alternative to traditional coffee or matcha lattes

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Butterfly pea flower tea (brewed and cooled)

• Espresso or strong brewed coffee (optional)

• Milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy)

• Sweetener (sugar, honey, or syrup to taste)

• Ice cubes (for iced version)

• Optional: vanilla extract or sea salt for added flavor

• Optional toppings: whipped cream or dried flowers

Directions

1. Brew the Tea: Steep butterfly pea flowers in hot water for 5–7 minutes until the liquid is a vibrant blue. Strain and let cool.

2. Prepare Coffee (Optional): Brew a shot of espresso or about ½ cup of strong coffee. Allow it to cool slightly if using for an iced drink.

3. Sweeten and Flavor: Mix the milk with your preferred sweetener. You may also add a dash of vanilla extract or a pinch of sea salt for added depth.

4. Assemble the Latte: Fill a glass with ice. Pour in the coffee first (if using), followed by the milk. Gently pour the butterfly pea tea over the back of a spoon to float on top, creating a layered look.

5. Garnish: Optionally top with whipped cream or sprinkle with dried flowers for presentation. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 1 serving

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Without Coffee: Skip the espresso to enjoy a fully caffeine-free version.

• Hot Ocean Latte: Warm the milk and tea instead of serving over ice.

• Matcha Twist: Add a layer of matcha for a colorful green-blue gradient.

• Vegan Friendly: Use almond, oat, or coconut milk along with a plant-based sweetener.

• Citrus Blue Latte: Add a small splash of lemon juice for a color-changing effect.

Storage/Reheating

Ocean Lattes are best enjoyed fresh. If you need to store it, refrigerate the tea and milk separately and combine just before serving. Do not store assembled, as the layers may blend. Reheating is not recommended for the iced version but is fine for a hot version if heated gently.

FAQs

What gives the Ocean Latte its blue color?

The vibrant blue hue comes from butterfly pea flower tea, a herbal tea made from dried petals.

Can I make an Ocean Latte without coffee?

Yes, it can be made entirely without coffee for a caffeine-free beverage.

Is butterfly pea tea naturally sweet?

No, it has a very mild, earthy flavor and is typically sweetened with sugar or syrups.

Can I serve this drink hot?

Yes, simply warm the milk and butterfly pea tea instead of serving it over ice.

Does the drink taste like coffee?

Only if you add coffee—otherwise, the drink has a light, floral and milky taste.

Can I use any type of milk?

Yes, this recipe works well with dairy milk and non-dairy options like oat, almond, or coconut milk.

Is this drink healthy?

Yes, butterfly pea flower tea is known for its antioxidants, and you can adjust sweetness to make it lighter.

Where can I find butterfly pea flowers?

They are often available in dried form at specialty tea shops or online.

Will lemon juice change the color?

Yes, adding acidity like lemon juice can turn the blue tea purple due to pH change.

Can I blend the Ocean Latte?

Yes, you can blend all the ingredients with ice for a smoothie-style version.

Conclusion

The Ocean Latte is a serene and beautiful drink that captures the calm essence of the sea in every sip. Whether you enjoy it iced on a warm day or as a warm comfort in the morning, its soft flavors and stunning presentation make it a delightful addition to your beverage routine. Easy to customize and naturally eye-catching, it’s a drink that brings both relaxation and joy to any moment.