Why You Will Love This Recipe
This homemade boba tea recipe is simple, customizable, and surprisingly enjoyable to prepare. Instead of buying store-bought drinks, you can customize the sweetness, select your favorite milk, and enjoy fresh, chewy tapioca pearls at home. Even better, the ingredients are simple to obtain, and the instructions are simple to follow.
Most importantly, this recipe provides the classic café-style flavor without the need for any special equipment. Whether you’re new to bubble tea or a long-time fan, this version is consistently delicious.
Ingredients for Homemade Boba Tea
This recipe (1X) yields 2 servings
- For the tapioca pearls
- 1 cup black tapioca pearls
- water, for boiling
- 2 tbsp brown sugar or honey
- For the tea
- 2 cups water
- 2 black tea bags (or loose black tea)
- For the milk tea
- 1 cup milk (any kind)
- 2 tbsp sugar, honey, or brown sugar syrup (to taste)
- ice cubes
How to Make Boba Tea Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Tapioca Pearls
First, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the tapioca pearls and stir gently to keep them from sticking together. Cook according to the package directions, usually between 20 and 30 minutes, until the pearls become soft and chewy.
Once cooked, drain the pearls and place them in a bowl. While still warm, toss with brown sugar or honey. This step allows the pearls to absorb sweetness and improves their texture.
Step 2: Brew the Tea
Meanwhile, heat 2 cups water to a boil. Remove the pot from the heat and add the teabags. Allow the tea to steep for 5 to 7 minutes to ensure that the flavor remains strong. Then, discard the tea bags and let the tea cool completely.
Step 3: Assemble the Drink
Fill a tall glass with ice. Place a generous spoonful of sweetened boba pearls on the bottom. Then, add the cooled tea.
followed by the milk. Finally, sweeten to taste and stir thoroughly to combine all of the flavors.
Finally, sweeten to taste and stir thoroughly to combine all of the flavors.
Serve immediately using a wide straw.
Tips for the Best Boba Tea
For the best texture, always taste the pearls before draining them. If they are too firm, cook for a few more minutes. In addition, sweetening the pearls while warm ensures better flavor absorption.
It is also important to note that boba tea tastes best fresh. Over time, the pearls will harden and lose their chewiness.
Easy Variations
If you want to change things up, there are several easy variations to try. For example, you can replace black tea with green or jasmine tea for a lighter taste. Alternatively, use oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
For a richer option, skip the tea entirely and make brown sugar milk tea using warm brown sugar syrup and milk.
Final Thoughts
Homemade boba tea is a fun and rewarding drink that you can easily make in your own kitchen. Not only does it save money, but it also gives you full control over ingredients and flavor. Once you try it at home, you may never go back to store-bought bubble tea again.
Nutrition Details
Homemade Boba Tea (Milk Tea)
Boba Tea Recipe FAQ
Homemade Boba Tea: Frequently Asked Questions
Helpful answers to get perfectly chewy boba pearls and smooth, café-style milk tea every time.
Why are my boba pearls hard in the center? +
How do I keep boba pearls soft and chewy? +
Can I make boba tea ahead of time? +
What milk works best for boba tea? +
Is homemade boba tea healthier than store-bought? +
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