Bubble tea, also known as boba tea or pearl milk tea, has taken the world by storm with its chewy tapioca pearls, creamy texture, and endless flavour possibilities. While grabbing a cup at a café is easy, learning how to make bubble tea at home can be just as fun (and way more satisfying).
With the right bubble tea ingredients and a simple bubble tea recipe, you can whip up your own delicious version, customise it to your taste, and enjoy this trendy drink from the comfort of your kitchen.
Ingredients
Before diving into the recipe, let’s look at the must-have bubble tea ingredients:
- ½ cup tapioca pearls (boba)
- 2 cups brewed black tea (you can also use green tea, oolong, or jasmine)
- ½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 2 to 3 tablespoons sugar syrup, or honey (adjust to taste)
Optional Add-Ins for Flavour:
- Brown sugar syrup for a caramel-like sweetness
- Fruit purees for a fruity twist
- Flavoured powders like matcha or taro
Instructions
Here’s how to make bubble tea at home with just a few simple steps:
- Cook the tapioca pearls:
- Bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
- Add the tapioca pearls and stir gently to prevent sticking.
- Cook according to package instructions (usually 5–10 minutes) until they float and become chewy.
- Drain and transfer to a bowl. Mix with 1–2 tablespoons of sugar syrup to keep them from sticking and to add sweetness.
- Brew the tea:
- Steep 2 cups of black tea (or your choice of tea) until strong and flavourful.
- Let it cool slightly if making iced bubble tea.
- Assemble your bubble tea:
- Add the cooked boba pearls to the bottom of a tall glass.
- Fill halfway with brewed tea.
- Add milk and sweetener to taste.
- Stir well and add ice if desired and enjoy!
This bubble tea recipe will serve approximately 2 servings. So grab your bubble tea ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy your very own homemade boba. One sip, and you’ll see why this drink has captured hearts (and taste buds) all over the world.