Blue Moon Milk (Butterfly Pea Latte)
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This is the drink I make when I want something cozy and calming but still a little interesting.
Blue moon milk gets its name from the striking color—thanks to butterfly pea flower, a naturally blue ingredient that’s been used for centuries in herbal teas. The flavor is subtle and earthy, the texture is creamy (thank you, coconut milk), and it comes together in about 5 minutes.
It’s great for evenings when I want to step away from screens, slow things down, or just have a non-caffeinated option that still feels special. I add reishi mushroom when I’ve had a long day—it’s not sedating, but it does help me settle.
What’s In This Blue Moon Milk (And Why It Works)
- 1 cup coconut milk – Thick, creamy, and satisfying. You can use oat or almond milk instead, but coconut gives it the best texture. Here’s how I make mine.
- 1 tsp butterfly pea flower powder – This is what gives blue moon milk its signature color. It’s rich in antioxidants and adds a mild, slightly herbal flavor.
- ½ tsp reishi mushroom powder – Reishi is an adaptogen often used for stress support and immune balance. The flavor is earthy but mellowed out by the coconut milk and vanilla.
- ½ tsp vanilla powder – Balances the herbal notes and adds a hint of warmth.
- 1 tsp maple syrup – Optional, but helps round out the flavor if you want a little sweetness.
A Quick Note on Reishi (and Why I Use It)
Reishi is one of the adaptogens I keep in regular rotation—especially when I’m dealing with low-level stress or overstimulation. It’s not energizing like maca or calming like chamomile—it just helps your body stay balanced when things feel off.
What I like about reishi is that it’s subtle. It won’t make you sleepy, but it can help you shift gears, especially in the evenings when you’re mentally tired but physically restless. It’s also known for supporting immune health and long-term stress resilience.
I keep the dose low (½ tsp or less) to keep the flavor mild. If you’re new to adaptogens or want to learn more about how they actually work, I break it all down in this post about the best adaptogens and their benefits.
Tips for the Best Blue Moon Milk
- Try it when you’re overstimulated, not overtired. This isn’t a sleepy drink—it’s more about helping you slow down, not knock you out.
- Whisk really well. Butterfly pea powder and reishi both need some help to fully dissolve. A handheld frother or small whisk makes a big difference.
- Don’t skip the vanilla. It rounds out the flavor and softens the earthiness of the reishi.
- Play with the color. A few drops of lemon juice will shift the drink from blue to purple—just a little visual bonus if you’re in the mood.
- Drink it warm, not piping hot. The flavors come through better, and it’s easier on your system when winding down.
Blue Moon Milk
Ingredients
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 tsp butterfly pea flower powder
- 1/2 tsp reishi mushroom powder
- 1/2 tsp vanilla powder
- 1 tsp maple syrup
Instructions
- Warm the coconut milk in a small saucepan over low heat—don’t boil it.
- Whisk in the butterfly pea flower powder, reishi, and vanilla until fully dissolved and smooth.
- Add maple syrup if using, and stir until warm and creamy.
- Pour into a mug and enjoy. If you want a little kitchen fun, squeeze in a few drops of lemon juice and watch it turn purple.
Notes
- Reishi is optional. You can skip it if you don’t have it on hand—the blue moon milk will still taste great and look beautiful.
- Use unsweetened coconut milk if you’re watching sugar. Maple syrup adds a nice balance, but it’s not required.
- This drink is best fresh. The butterfly pea color fades over time, so it’s best enjoyed right after making.
FAQ: Blue Moon Milk
What is blue moon milk?
Blue moon milk is a non-caffeinated latte made with butterfly pea flower powder, which gives it a bright blue color. It’s often combined with a creamy base like coconut milk and other calming ingredients like reishi or vanilla.
Does blue moon milk help with sleep?
It’s more of a “wind-down” drink than a sleep aid. The ingredients support relaxation, but it’s not a sedative. I usually drink it earlier in the evening if I want to unplug and slow down.
What does blue moon milk taste like?
Mild, slightly earthy, and a little floral. The coconut milk and vanilla smooth it out. It’s not overly sweet unless you add syrup.
Can I drink it during the day?
Yes! Blue moon milk doesn’t make you drowsy, so it works just as well in the morning or as a mid-afternoon reset.
Why does blue moon milk turn purple with lemon?
Butterfly pea flower is pH-sensitive. When you add lemon juice (which is acidic), it reacts with the powder and changes color. Totally optional, but kind of fun to watch.
Can I use fresh butterfly pea flowers instead of powder?
Yes, but it takes longer to steep and strain. The powder is easier for blending into lattes and gives a more consistent color.
Can I make blue moon milk ahead of time?
You can prep the dry mix ahead and store it in a jar. Just add it to your warm milk when you’re ready. The finished drink is best fresh—otherwise, the blue color fades and the texture can separate.
Is it safe to drink every day?
Yes, assuming you’re using food-safe butterfly pea flower and reishi in small amounts. As always, check with your doctor if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or on medication.
