This drink looks like something straight out of a fairytale.
Or like a mermaid swam up to your kitchen, handed you a glass, and said, “Here. You need this.”
This is the type of drink you can make when you want to have some fun.
So, how this works is this lemonade changes color thanks to a special little flower called butterfly pea.
The first time I made this, I gasped. Not kidding.
And now, every time I serve it to someone for the first time, I just wait for that moment—the part where the color shifts from indigo to pink when the citrus hits. It’s pure joy.
My partner calls it “magic water” and always asks for it when we’re watching something cheesy.
It’s also the prettiest thing you can serve at brunch, baby showers, or just when you’re trying to get through another 40°C day and need something to make you smile.
It’s made with real ingredients, no weird dyes, and only takes a few minutes to whip up.
A few weeks ago, I covered a butterfly pea coconut milk drink that you might like here.
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Tips for Making It More Magical
Getting the balance of flavors and colors just right is key. Here are a few essential tips to keep in mind:
- You can buy dried butterfly pea flowers online—they last forever and a little goes a long way.
- For a layered effect, use a long cocktail spoon to pour the tea slowly on top of the lemonade.
- If you want super aesthetic ice, try clear ice molds—they melt slower and look amazing.
- Use a glass carafe if you’re serving this at a party—it shows off the color and looks so pretty.
- Want to prep ahead? Brew and store the tea in a glass bottle with lid and just assemble when ready.
Let’s get to the recipe!
Mermaid Lemonade (Color-Changing & Magical)
Course: BreakfastDifficulty: Easy2-3
servings7
minutesIngredients
1½ cups cold lemonade (homemade or store-bought)
½ cup butterfly pea flower tea (cooled)
Juice of ½ a lemon or lime
1–2 teaspoons simple syrup, honey, or agave (optional, to taste)
Ice cubes (clear or crushed)
Fresh mint or lemon slices for garnish
Directions
- Start by brewing the butterfly pea flower tea: steep 1 teaspoon of dried butterfly pea flowers in ½ cup hot water for 5–7 minutes, then strain and let it cool completely. If you’re short on time, pop it in the fridge or freezer for a few minutes to chill.
- In a tall glass, add ice cubes and pour in the lemonade, leaving about an inch of space at the top. If you’re making your own lemonade, a simple mix of lemon juice, water, and sweetener works just fine. Once the lemonade is in, slowly pour the cooled butterfly pea tea over the back of a spoon so it gently floats on top, creating a beautiful ombre effect.
- Just before serving, squeeze a bit of extra lemon or lime juice on top—or stir it—and watch the magic happen. The tea reacts with the citrus and turns from deep blue to soft pink or purple right before your eyes. Garnish with mint, a lemon slice, or even edible flowers if you’re going all in.
- I personally love making this when I want to impress someone – it always works!
Variations and Substitutes:
Switch up the base: Use sparkling lemonade or lemon-lime soda for a fizzy version.
Try flavored lemonade: Raspberry lemonade adds a pink hue underneath the blue layer—gorgeous.
Make it a cocktail: Add a splash of vodka, gin, or elderflower liqueur for a magical grown-up version.
Use lime instead of lemon: It creates a slightly greener hue and a more tropical taste.
Add herbs: Muddle a bit of basil or mint in the lemonade for an earthy twist.
This is such a whimsical drink and it’s very refreshing.
I love that it looks like a complicated Pinterest drink, but secretly it’s the easiest thing ever.
Enjoy!
