Name: Butterfly Pea Flower Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Adds sweetness and moisture retention.); 1 cup Coconut Milk (Can be replaced with almond, soy, or oat milk.); 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil (Keeps the cake moist.); 2 large Eggs (Acts as a binding agent.); 1/4 cup Dried Butterfly Pea Flowers (Responsible for the cake's vibrant blue color.); 1 tbsp Baking Powder (Leavening agent for fluffy texture.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Enhances the overall flavor profile.); 1 tsp Salt (Balances sweetness.); 1/2 tbsp Lemon Juice (Brightens the taste.); 1/4 cup Water (Used to steep the butterfly pea flowers.)

As I whisked together the vivid blue hues of the butterfly pea flower, a wave of excitement washed over me—this was no ordinary cake. The Butterfly Pea Flower Cake is a cheerful twist on traditional desserts, blending the floral notes of butterfly pea with the creamy sweetness of coconut milk. It’s a beginner-friendly delight that not only offers a charming splash of color to your table but also comes with the bonus of being gluten-free! This unique dessert is perfect for gatherings, making it an eye-catching centerpiece that will leave your guests intrigued and eager for a taste. Ready to impress with this vibrant tropical treat? Let’s dive into the details of creating your own stunning Butterfly Pea Flower Cake that promises both aesthetic appeal and delicious flavor!

Why is Butterfly Pea Flower Cake special?

Astonishing Color: The vibrant hue of the butterfly pea flower creates a stunning visual impact that’s sure to impress your guests.

Unique Floral Flavor: This cake offers a delightful blend of floral notes and creamy coconut milk, setting it apart from typical desserts.

Versatile Ingredients: Made with simple pantry staples and gluten-free options, it accommodates various diets without sacrificing taste.

Perfect for Celebrations: Its eye-catching appearance makes it an ideal centerpiece for birthdays, weddings, or festive gatherings.

Beginner-Friendly: With easy-to-follow instructions, anyone can create this tropical masterpiece, making baking a joy instead of a chore.

Try pairing it with a light whipped cream or check out our Lightened Cauliflower Potato for a complete comfort meal!

Butterfly Pea Flower Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure for the cake; substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture retention to the cake, keeping it soft.
Coconut Milk – Contributes a rich creaminess with tropical flavor; can be replaced with almond, soy, or oat milk.
Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cake moist due to its liquid nature at room temperature.
Eggs – Acts as a binding agent and helps with leavening by trapping air.
Dried Butterfly Pea Flowers – Responsible for the cake’s vibrant blue color and floral aroma.
Baking Powder – Leavening agent ensuring the cake rises to a fluffy texture.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile with warm notes.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
Lemon Juice – Brightens the taste and amplifies the blue color from the butterfly pea flowers.
Water – Used to steep the butterfly pea flowers, extracting their vibrant dye.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butterfly Pea Flower Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grab a 9-inch round cake pan and generously grease it with butter or oil, then dust it with flour to prevent sticking. This will ensure your Butterfly Pea Flower Cake releases easily once baked.

Step 2: Steep the Flowers
In a small saucepan, bring 1/4 cup of water to a gentle boil. Add the dried butterfly pea flowers, allowing them to steep for 5-10 minutes until the water turns a vibrant blue. Once steeped, strain out the flowers and let the blue liquid cool to room temperature before using it in the batter.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk together until evenly mixed. This dry mixture forms the cake’s foundation, so be sure to incorporate the ingredients well to create a fluffy Butterfly Pea Flower Cake.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cooled butterfly pea flower tea, 1 cup of coconut milk, 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and the juice of half a lemon. Mix until everything is fully combined and smooth. This creates a fragrant, colorful blend that adds moisture to your cake.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture using a rubber spatula. Incorporate until just combined; be careful not to overmix. The batter should look slightly lumpy but well-combined. This careful folding will help maintain the tender texture of your Butterfly Pea Flower Cake.

Step 6: Pour the Batter
Pour the prepared batter into the greased cake pan, using a spatula to smooth the top evenly. This ensures an even rise during baking. The vibrant hue of the batter should be a beautiful sight that hints at the stunning color of the finished cake.

Step 7: Bake
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the edges start to slightly golden. The aroma of the floral cake will fill your kitchen, promising delightful flavors.

Step 8: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, gently transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial, as it prevents the cake from becoming soggy and allows you to frost it beautifully later.

Step 9: Frosting and Decoration
After the cake has cooled, you can frost it with cream cheese frosting or whipped cream. Add decorative elements like lemon zest or edible flowers to make it visually stunning. This final touch elevates your Butterfly Pea Flower Cake into an impressive dessert ready for any celebration.

What to Serve with Butterfly Pea Flower Cake

Indulging in the stunning Butterfly Pea Flower Cake is just the beginning of creating a delightful dining experience.

Coconut Whipped Cream:
A light and fluffy topping that enhances the creamy coconut notes of the cake, making each bite indulgently rich.
Fresh Tropical Fruit Salad:
The bright and vibrant flavors of fresh fruits like mango and pineapple balance the floral notes beautifully.
Matcha Green Tea:
This earthy drink pairs well with the floral sweetness of the cake, offering a refreshing contrast and a hint of bitterness.
Lemon Sorbet:
A palate-cleansing, tart treat that complements the sweetness of the cake and brightens up the tropical experience.
Chilled Iced Tea:
Lightly sweetened hibiscus iced tea adds a floral note that enhances the cake’s flavors and provides a refreshing contrast.

For a truly delightful spread, consider serving the cake alongside a rich custard or a light yogurt parfait to add contrasting textures. Dial-up your dessert experience while impressing your guests with these diverse pairings!

Butterfly Pea Flower Cake Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Butterfly Pea Flower Cake! Experimenting with flavors and textures can take this dessert from delightful to extraordinary.

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities without sacrificing texture.
Dairy-Free: Use almond milk, soy milk, or any plant-based milk in place of coconut milk to make this cake dairy-free while still preserving its creamy flavor.
Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of almond or coconut extract for an extra layer of flavor that enhances the tropical feel of your cake.

For a zesty surprise, consider complementing the floral notes with a hint of lime zest, which can elevate the cake’s overall taste profile.

Frosting Twist: Try flavored whipped cream or a luscious lemon buttercream frosting to switch things up. Each variation offers a deliciously unique take on the classic.
Add Texture: Sprinkle shredded toasted coconut on top of your frosting for an exciting crunch and added tropical flair. It’ll give your cake a delightful contrast in texture.
Fruit Addition: Fold in fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries into the batter for pops of color and juicy bursts of flavor in every bite.

As you explore these diverse variations, feel free to customize to your heart’s content! Pair your cake with light whipped cream or serve it alongside a slice of no-bake blueberry cheesecake for a refreshing dessert duo.

Make Ahead Options

These Butterfly Pea Flower Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cake batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry ingredients and the wet ingredients separately; store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. You can also cool the baked cake and keep it unfrosted for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to 5 days in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply frost the cake with your favorite topping and add any decorative elements just before presenting. This way, you’ll enjoy a vibrant and delicious dessert that’s just as delightful as if made on the same day!

Storage Tips for Butterfly Pea Flower Cake

Room Temperature: Store the butterfly pea flower cake in an airtight container for up to 2–3 days. This keeps it fresh while allowing the flavors to develop beautifully.
Fridge: If you want to prolong its life, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep it covered to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, unfrosted slices of the cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: To enjoy your leftover cake, simply let it come to room temperature or warm it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving.

Expert Tips for Butterfly Pea Flower Cake

Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake’s texture light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense result that lacks the delicate crumb you desire.
Cooling Time: Always let the cake cool completely before frosting. This ensures that your frosting doesn’t melt and helps maintain the cake’s beautiful appearance.
Flavor Balance: Adjust the amount of lemon juice to suit your taste; too much can overpower the floral flavor of the butterfly pea flower. Aim for a nice balance that enhances without masking.
Flour Swap: When using gluten-free flour, make sure it has a binding agent like xanthan gum to mimic the elasticity of all-purpose flour. This helps maintain the cake’s structure.
Frosting Options: Experiment with various frosting types; a tangy cream cheese or citrus-flavored frosting pairs wonderfully with the floral notes of the Butterfly Pea Flower Cake.

Butterfly Pea Flower Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of butterfly pea flowers should I use?
I recommend using dried butterfly pea flowers for this recipe, as they provide the vibrant color and floral aroma essential for the cake. Look for them in health food stores or online. If you can only find butterfly pea flower powder, you can substitute with 1-2 teaspoons directly into the wet ingredients; just remember to mix well to ensure an even color throughout!

How should I store the Butterfly Pea Flower Cake?
Once your cake is complete, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2–3 days. If you prefer it a bit fresher, placing it in the refrigerator can extend its life to about 5 days. Just make sure it’s covered to prevent it from drying out!

Can I freeze the Butterfly Pea Flower Cake?
Absolutely! You can freeze unfrosted slices of the cake for up to 2 months. Just wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them into a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw at room temperature or warm a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, and you’re good to go!

What should I do if my cake doesn’t rise properly?
If your cake doesn’t rise as expected, it could be due to expired baking powder. Always check the expiration date before use. Additionally, make sure to fold the wet and dry ingredients gently to prevent overmixing, which can negatively affect the cake’s texture. Ensuring your oven is preheated to the right temperature is also crucial for achieving that fluffy rise.

Is this cake suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes! The Butterfly Pea Flower Cake can easily be made gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check that your other ingredients, especially the baking powder and any frosting, are also gluten-free. Plus, it contains no nuts, making it friendlier for individuals with nut allergies when choosing the milk and frosting options!

What can I use instead of coconut milk?
If you’re looking for dairy-free alternatives, you can replace coconut milk with almond, soy, or oat milk. Each will impart its own unique flavor, though the creaminess of the coconut milk is special in this recipe! Ensure you choose unsweetened varieties to keep the cake’s sweetness balanced.