Life can sometimes feel overwhelming, can’t it? When we’re mired in the whirlwind of daily responsibilities, it’s easy to crave moments of tranquility. Imagine sinking into a cozy corner of your home with a warm cup of Lavender Milk Tea {Hot & Iced} in hand, the delicate aroma wrapping around you like a hug. This isn’t just a beverage—it’s a moment of serenity that offers a delicious respite from the chaos.
One late afternoon, feeling particularly tired after a long workweek, I stumbled upon the soothing properties of lavender. I had a bag of dried lavender buds sitting in my pantry, solely meant for potpourri. That day, I decided to experiment and create something comforting and unique. After a few attempts and adjustments, I crafted the perfect Lavender Milk Tea that quickly became my go-to pick-me-up.
Why Lavender Milk Tea {Hot & Iced} Works Wonders
Lavender Milk Tea {Hot & Iced} is an extraordinary blend of flavors and aromas that can transport you to a serene garden, no matter where you are. The lavender’s calming properties help reduce anxiety, while the black tea adds a familiar warmth. Combined with the richness of milk and your choice of sweetener, each sip cradles your senses and brings a smile to your face.
Quick Answer: The secret to perfect Lavender Milk Tea {Hot & Iced} is infusing the milk with lavender buds, creating a fragrant and soothing base.
Whether you’re seeking a warming drink for chilly evenings or a refreshing iced treat for those hot summer days, this recipe has you covered. The balance of floral and creamy elements in this drink makes it a delightful choice any time of year.
Ingredients, Substitutions & Foolproof Steps
Let’s dive into what you need to create this lovely beverage:
- 1 cup whole milk — For a rich, creamy texture that’s key to this drink. For a lighter version, consider using almond or oat milk.
- 1/2 tablespoon dried lavender buds — A fragrant centerpiece that provides relaxation. Fresh lavender works too, but the flavor will be less concentrated.
- 1 black tea bag (or 1 tablespoon loose black tea leaves) — This provides a comforting base. Feel free to substitute with green tea for a lighter flavor.
- 1 teaspoon NuNaturals vanilla stevia syrup — This natural sweetener enhances the flavors. Other options include honey, maple syrup, or regular sugar—adjust to taste.
- 1-2 tablespoons optional collagen peptides — For added health benefits, do consider these. They are easily dissolved and tasteless.
Directions / Steps
- Begin by adding the milk and lavender buds to a small saucepan over medium heat. Heat for 4 to 4.5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the milk is steaming but not boiling.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and add the tea bag (or loose tea). Allow the mixture to infuse for 3 to 4 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully.
- Strain the tea mixture using a fine mesh sieve over your favorite drinking vessel, discarding the lavender and tea leaves.
- Stir in your chosen sweetener (and collagen peptides, if you opted for them). Enjoy immediately as a soothing hot drink.
- For the iced version: Follow the first three steps and stir in the collagen, if using. Allow the tea mixture to cool in the refrigerator until completely chilled. Finally, fill a glass with ice (consider adding boba for fun!), pour over the cooled tea, and sweeten to taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the straining step can lead to a gritty beverage. Always strain out the lavender and tea leaves.
- Heating the milk too rapidly can cause it to scorch. Take it slow and keep an eye on the pot.
- Experimenting with flavors too much at once may overwhelm the delicate lavender notes—keep it simple, especially at first.
Pro Tips
- Use a frother to whip up the milk before serving for a café-style experience.
- If using fresh lavender, double the amount, as its flavor is milder compared to dried.
- Serve with a side of shortbread cookies; the pairing is simply delightful!
Serving, Storage & Freezer Tips
How to Serve Lavender Milk Tea {Hot & Iced}
Serve the tea warm in a cozy mug or pour it over ice in a tall glass. A sprig of fresh lavender or a sprinkle of dried buds can elevate your serving presentation.
How to Store Lavender Milk Tea {Hot & Iced}
Store any leftover brewed Lavender Milk Tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or sip it cold.
Can You Freeze Lavender Milk Tea {Hot & Iced}?
Freezing isn’t the best option for Lavender Milk Tea, especially with dairy. If you do want to freeze it, consider making ice cubes from the tea itself, perfect for a future iced drink!
A Personal Reflection
Every time I brew this Lavender Milk Tea {Hot & Iced}, I’m reminded of that hurried afternoon years ago when I first discovered its soothing power. It’s become a cherished ritual, a way to slow down and savor life, even just for a moment. Drinking it brings forth memories of quiet afternoons spent curled up with a book or chatting with friends. Through its fragrant essence, Lavender Milk Tea evokes comfort, warmth, and nostalgia.
FAQ Section
1. Can I use almond milk or oat milk instead of whole milk? Absolutely! Almond, oat, or coconut milk can all be great alternatives if you’re looking for dairy-free options. Keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess may vary.
2. What if I don’t have dried lavender? Can I use essential oils instead? It’s best to avoid essential oils for ingestible recipes. Instead, consider using a lavender tea bag or look for culinary-grade dried lavender.
3. Can I make Lavender Milk Tea {Hot & Iced} without sweetener? Yes! The drink is delightful even without additional sweetener, allowing the lavender and tea’s natural flavor to shine through. Adjust it to your taste preference.
4. Is this tea caffeine-free? If you switch to herbal lavender tea or use a caffeine-free tea blend, you can enjoy a caffeine-free version. Black tea does contain caffeine, which may impact sensitivity.
Conclusion
The beauty of Lavender Milk Tea {Hot & Iced} lies in its ability to transport you away from everyday life into a soothing realm of comfort. Each sip is a reminder of the powerful connection between food and memory, filled with love and serenity.
If this recipe reminds you of someone you love, share it with them. Your memories keep recipes alive.
Lavender Milk Tea
Ingredients
Method
- Add the milk and lavender buds to a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Heat for 4 to 4.5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the milk is steaming but not boiling.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and add the tea bag (or loose tea). Allow to infuse for 3 to 4 minutes.
- Strain the tea mixture using a fine mesh sieve over your favorite drinking vessel, discarding the lavender and tea leaves.
- Stir in your chosen sweetener and collagen peptides (if using). Enjoy immediately as a soothing hot drink.
- Follow the first three steps of the preparation.
- Allow the tea mixture to cool in the refrigerator until completely chilled.
- Fill a glass with ice, pour over the cooled tea, and sweeten to taste.