Soft florals, golden honey, and a hint of citrus unfold gracefully with every sip—Butterfly Bee’s Knees is where visual magic meets botanical elegance. Ideal for those moments when you want your cocktail to captivate before it even touches the lips.
Equipment
To make a Butterfly Bees Knees, gather these essential tools:
- Cocktail shaker: For mixing the ingredients thoroughly.
- Strainer: To remove any solids or ice from the drink.
- Jigger: To measure precise quantities of liquid.
- Cocktail glass: Preferably a chilled one to keep the drink cold.
- Teaspoon and saucepan: For preparing honey syrup.
- Measuring cup: To mix tea.
These tools ensure that the cocktail is prepared correctly, maintaining its intended flavor and presentation.
Ingredients
Compile these ingredients for the perfect Butterfly Bees Knees:
- 2 oz gin (floral or standard)
- 1/2 oz lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/2 oz honey syrup (prepared ahead)
- 1/2 oz butterfly pea flower tea (strongly brewed)
- Ice cubes
- Lemon twist (for garnish)
These elements marry beautifully to create a drink that is both visually stunning and delicious.
Instructions
Create your cocktail with these steps:
- Brew butterfly pea flower tea by steeping flowers in hot water.
- Prepare honey syrup by dissolving equal parts honey and water over low heat.
- Fill shaker with ice cubes.
- Add gin, lemon juice, honey syrup, and tea to the shaker.
- Shake vigorously until chilled.
- Strain mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist.
Follow these steps to enjoy a perfectly balanced and flavorful cocktail.
Tasting Notes
The Butterfly Bees Knees offers a delightful mix of flavors. The gin’s herbal and floral notes shine through, complemented by the sweetness of honey. A hint of citrus from the lemon juice adds freshness. The butterfly pea flower tea provides an earthy undertone and a striking color. Overall, this cocktail is a harmonious blend, perfect for those who appreciate a nuanced drink.
Similar Cocktails
Explore these alternatives if you enjoy the Butterfly Bees Knees:
- Classic Bee’s Knees: Combines gin, lemon juice, and honey syrup without the tea.
- Aviation Cocktail: A mix of gin, maraschino liqueur, and creme de violette.
- Lavender Bee’s Knees: Includes lavender-infused honey syrup for a floral twist.
These drinks share similarities and cater to fans of elegant gin cocktails.
History
The Bee’s Knees cocktail dates back to the Prohibition era. Created to mask the rough flavors of bootlegged gin, it gained popularity for its refreshing composition. The Butterfly Bees Knees is a modern interpretation, adding butterfly pea flower tea for color and complexity. The evolution of this cocktail reflects the creative spirit in mixology.
Quick Pro Tips
Keep these tips in mind for an optimal experience:
- Use quality gin for the best flavor.
- Ensure honey syrup is smooth by stirring until fully dissolved.
- Chill your glass beforehand for a cooler cocktail.
- Experiment with floral gins to find your preferred taste.
- Avoid over-steeping tea to prevent bitterness.
When to Serve
The Butterfly Bees Knees is ideal for various settings. Its stunning visual appeal makes it a hit at gatherings and celebrations. Serve it at brunch, afternoon tea, or cocktail parties. The combination of flavors suits both warm and cool weather, making it versatile year-round. It’s a great choice when you want a drink that impresses.
