Bubble Tea (Boba Tea)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This bubble tea recipe is simple, customizable, and far more affordable than buying it from a shop. You can adjust the sweetness, creaminess, and type of tea to your liking. The chewy tapioca pearls give it a unique texture that makes it a delightful drink and snack in one. It’s also versatile you can try different teas, milk alternatives, or even fruit flavors.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

½ cup prepared tapioca pearls (boba)
6-8 ounces freshly brewed black tea
2-3 tablespoons simple syrup or another sweetener of choice, amount to taste
¼ cup whole milk, half and half, or another creamer (optional)
1 cup ice

Directions

1. Prepare the tapioca pearls according to package instructions and let them cool slightly.
2. Brew 6-8 ounces of strong black tea and allow it to cool to room temperature.
3. In a tall glass, add the cooked boba pearls.
4. Fill the glass with ice cubes.
5. Pour in the tea, followed by simple syrup or your preferred sweetener. Stir well.
6. Add milk, half-and-half, or creamer if desired for a richer flavor.
7. Insert a wide straw and enjoy immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 serving.
Prep time: 10 minutes (plus boba cooking time depending on package directions)
Cook time: 5 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Use green tea, jasmine tea, or oolong tea instead of black tea for a different flavor.
• Make it fruity by adding flavored syrups like mango, lychee, or strawberry.
• Use almond, oat, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
• Adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more or less syrup.
• Blend the drink with ice for a slushie-style boba tea.

Storage/Reheating

Bubble tea is best enjoyed fresh. Cooked tapioca pearls can become hard if refrigerated. If you need to store them, keep them in a sugar syrup at room temperature for up to 4 hours. Brewed tea can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling the drink.

FAQs

What kind of tea is best for bubble tea?

Black tea is most common, but green tea, oolong, or even flavored teas also work well.

How do I cook tapioca pearls?

Follow the instructions on the package, as cooking times vary. Usually, pearls are boiled until soft and then soaked in sugar syrup.

Can I make bubble tea without milk?

Yes, you can enjoy it as a classic iced tea with boba, sweetened to taste.

What’s the best sweetener for boba tea?

Simple syrup blends easily, but honey, brown sugar syrup, or agave can also be used.

Can I use instant boba pearls?

Yes, instant boba pearls are quick to prepare and great for convenience.

How do I keep the boba chewy?

Store cooked pearls in sugar syrup at room temperature and use them within a few hours.

Do I need a special straw?

Yes, a wide straw is best so you can sip the pearls along with the tea.

Can I make bubble tea without ice?

Yes, but ice gives it a refreshing chilled texture. You can also use cold-brewed tea.

Is bubble tea caffeinated?

If made with black or green tea, yes. To make it caffeine-free, use herbal tea instead.

Conclusion

Bubble tea is a fun, refreshing drink that combines chewy tapioca pearls with flavorful tea and customizable add-ins. With this simple recipe, you can create your favorite version at home whether creamy, fruity, or classic. It’s easy to make, delicious to sip, and sure to satisfy your boba cravings.

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