Step aside, mundane morning brews, and make way for the aristocrat of evening delights — Homemade Lavender Milk Tea!
This concoction isn’t merely a drink; it’s an escapade into tranquility, a creamy swirl of floral luxury that could easily be mistaken for a potion crafted in the hidden groves of a fairy-tale realm.
Whether you’re a die-hard tea aficionado or a curious newcomer ready to dip your spoon into something spectacular, this recipe promises a taste of serenity as smooth as silk and as soothing as a lullaby. Follow this guide to brew a warm and soothing lavender milk tea for cold winter evening or make the iced version perfect for hot summer afternoons.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Aromatic Adventure: Lavender is renowned for its soothing aroma, which can help calm the mind and relieve stress. Brewing a cup of lavender milk tea turns any ordinary tea time into a therapeutic experience that relaxes your senses and rejuvenates your spirit.
- Unique Flavor Twist: Lavender infuses a distinctive, slightly sweet and floral taste that transforms the traditional milk tea into an extraordinary beverage.
- Sleep Aid: Lavender has natural properties that promote relaxation and better sleep. Enjoying a cup of lavender milk tea in the evening can be a perfect bedtime ritual to help you unwind and prepare for a restful night.
- Antioxidant Rich: Lavender not only pleases the palate but also packs a punch of antioxidants, which are great for your overall health. These antioxidants can help combat free radicals, promoting a healthier, glowing complexion.
- Simple and Versatile: This recipe is incredibly easy to make with just a few ingredients and steps, making it accessible to everyone, regardless of their culinary skills. Plus, it can be customized to taste preferences — sweetened or unsweetened, served hot or cold, making it a versatile choice for any season or occasion.
Ingredients
The two main ingredients used for this recipe are milk and lavender buds. I prefer using whole milk but you can also choose a low-fat or plant-based option (e.g. soy milk or almond milk).
I recommend using high-quality lavender such as Cedar Space Dried Lavender Flowers. Another great option is to pick up lavender from your own garden and use it fresh or dried.
Ingredients for making 4 cups (32) oz of Lavender Milk Tea:
- 2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups milk (any kind you prefer)
- 1-2 tablespoons honey or sugar (adjust according to taste)
- Vanilla extract (optional, to enhance flavor)
How to Make Lavender Milk Tea
Step-by-step instructions for making 4 cups (32 oz) of Lavender Milk Tea:
- Boil Water: Start by boiling water in a small pot or kettle.
- Steep the Lavender: Once the water is boiling, add the dried lavender to the pot. Remove from heat and cover the pot. Let it steep for about 5 minutes. This allows the lavender to infuse its flavors and aromas into the water.
- Strain: After steeping, strain the lavender using a fine mesh sieve or a tea strainer to remove the buds, leaving you with a beautifully infused lavender tea.
- Warm the Milk: In another pot, gently heat the milk just until it begins to steam. Avoid boiling to maintain the smooth texture of the milk.
- Combine and Sweeten: Add the warm milk to the lavender tea. Stir in honey or sugar to sweeten to your liking. If you’re using vanilla extract, add a few drops at this stage to enhance the flavor.
- Serve: Pour the lavender milk tea into your favorite cup. You can froth the milk before adding it to the tea if you prefer a creamy top layer. Enjoy your beverage hot, or let it cool down and serve over ice for a refreshing twist.
Iced Lavender Milk Tea
To make an iced version of the lavender milk tea, follow the initial steps to prepare the lavender-infused water and mix it with cold milk. If you are using a sweetener then warm the milk, mix in sugar or honey, and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
Next, refrigerate until it’s thoroughly chilled, or just pour over a glass full of ice cubes.
For an extra touch of sophistication, garnish with a sprig of fresh lavender or a slice of lemon.
Tips & Variations
- Experiment with Milk Choices: Try different types of milk to change the texture and flavor profile. Coconut milk adds a tropical twist, while almond milk offers a nutty undertone, enhancing the floral notes of lavender.
- Add Herbal Infusions: Mix in other herbal ingredients with the lavender, such as chamomile or mint, to create a multi-layered flavor experience and boost the relaxing effects of your tea.
- Incorporate Spices: Introduce a pinch of cinnamon or a cardamom pod while heating the milk to infuse your lavender milk tea with warm, comforting spices, perfect for cooler weather.
- Lavender Syrup: If you find dried lavender too subtle, use lavender syrup for a stronger flavor and an easier way to adjust the sweetness and intensity of your tea.
- Cold Brew Method: For a smoother taste, mix the milk and lavender with cold water and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. Strain the next morning for a cold brew version that’s extra refreshing and less bitter.
Lavender Milk Tea
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp Dried culinary lavender
- 2 cups Water
- 2 cups Milk any kind you prefer
- Honey or sugar optional, adjust according to taste
- Vanilla extract optional, to enhance flavor
Instructions
- Boil water in a small pot or kettle and add the lavender. Remove from heat, cover the pot, and let it steep for about 5 minutes.
- Strain the lavender infusion into a pitcher while heating the milk just until it begins to steam. Avoid boiling to maintain the smooth texture of the milk.
- Add the warm milk to the pitcher with lavender tea. Stir in honey or sugar to sweeten to your liking. You can also add a few drops of vanilla extract if you wish.
- Pour the lavender milk tea into cups and enjoy it hot, or let it cool down and serve over ice in glasses.