Making milk tea boba at home is simple and fun! You can make cool flavors like strawberry rose milk tea or taro slush. Try sweet milk tea or butterfly pea flower milk tea too. Homemade bubble tea means you can enjoy tasty drinks anytime!
Key Takeaways
- Making milk tea boba at home is simple and fun. You can try cool flavors like strawberry rose or taro slush anytime.
- Change your bubble tea by making it less sweet or using different teas and milk for your own style.
- Test out different recipes, like classic milk tea or fruity honeydew, to find your favorite and wow your friends!
Classic Milk Tea Boba Recipe
Ingredients
To make a delicious classic bubble tea, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Ingredient | Measurement | Servings |
Premium organic classic black tea | 2 oz. | Enough for 8-10 12 oz. drinks |
Tiger syrup (caramelized brown sugar) | 12 oz. | Enough for 6-8 drinks |
Restaurant-grade dry raw boba | 16 oz. | Enough for 10 drinks |
Artisanal brown sugar | 12 oz. | N/A |
You’ll also need fresh milk or a plant-based alternative like oat milk to add creaminess. Don’t forget quick cooking tapioca pearls for that chewy, satisfying texture!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to make bubble tea at home:
- Brew the tea: Steep 2 oz. of black tea in hot water for 5-7 minutes. Let it cool.
- Cook the tapioca pearls: Boil water and add quick cooking tapioca pearls. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook for 5 minutes or until they float.
- Prepare the syrup: Heat tiger syrup with artisanal brown sugar until it thickens slightly.
- Assemble your drink: Add cooked tapioca pearls to a glass. Pour in the syrup, followed by tea and milk. Stir well.
- Serve and enjoy: Add ice cubes if you like your bubble tea chilled.
Customization Tips for Sweetness and Tea Strength
Want to tweak your recipe? Here are some tips:
- Use different teas like green or oolong for unique flavors. Black tea is the classic choice for boba tea.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less syrup.
- For a creamier drink, try fresh milk or plant-based options like oat milk.
Pro Tip: Experiment with the ratio of tea to milk to find your perfect balance.

Brown Sugar Bubble Tea
If you’re a fan of rich, caramel-like flavors, brown sugar bubble tea is a must-try! This recipe combines creamy milk tea with sweet, sticky brown sugar syrup and chewy tapioca pearls. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious drink at home.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make brown sugar bubble tea:
Ingredient | Measurement |
Tapioca pearls | 1 cup |
Brown sugar | 1 cup |
Water | 1 cup |
Black tea leaves (or tea bags) | 2 tbsp (or 2 tea bags) |
Milk (or plant-based milk) | 1 cup |
Ice cubes | As needed |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the tapioca pearls: Boil water in a pot and add the tapioca pearls. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until they float. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- Make the brown sugar syrup: Combine brown sugar and water in a saucepan. Heat over medium-high without stirring until the sugar dissolves and the liquid bubbles. Reduce the heat to low and simmer until the syrup thickens slightly. Let it cool.
- Brew the tea: Steep black tea leaves in hot water for 5 minutes. Strain and let it cool.
- Assemble your drink: Add tapioca pearls to a glass. Pour in the brown sugar syrup, followed by the brewed tea and milk. Stir well.
- Serve and enjoy: Add ice cubes for a refreshing twist.
Tips for Perfect Brown Sugar Syrup
Getting the syrup just right is key to this recipe. Follow these tips for the best results:
- Cover the saucepan while simmering to prevent sugar crystals from forming on the sides.
- Add a splash of lemon juice or corn syrup to the mixture to avoid crystallization.
- Avoid boiling the syrup for too long. It thickens as it cools, so stop simmering once it reaches a slightly runny consistency.
Pro Tip: Use muscovado sugar or gula melaka for a deeper, more complex flavor in your syrup.
With this recipe, you’ll have a café-quality brown sugar bubble tea ready to enjoy at home. The combination of creamy milk tea, sweet syrup, and chewy tapioca pearls is simply irresistible!
Matcha Boba Tea
Matcha bubble tea is a vibrant and refreshing twist on the classic boba drink. Its earthy flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of milk and the chewiness of tapioca pearls. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make matcha bubble tea:
Ingredient | Measurement |
Ceremonial-grade matcha powder | 1 tsp |
Hot water | 1/4 cup |
Tapioca pearls | 1 cup |
Sugar or sweetener | 2 tbsp (adjust to taste) |
Milk (or plant-based milk) | 1 cup |
Ice cubes | As needed |
Tip: Always choose ceremonial-grade matcha for the best results. Its vibrant green color and subtle sweetness make it ideal for drinking. Lower-grade matcha can taste bitter and dull.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the tapioca pearls: Boil water in a pot and add the tapioca pearls. Stir occasionally to prevent clumping. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until they float. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- Prepare the matcha: In a small bowl, whisk 1 tsp of matcha powder with 1/4 cup of hot water until smooth and frothy. A bamboo whisk works best, but a regular whisk will do the trick too.
- Sweeten the matcha: Add sugar or your preferred sweetener to the matcha mixture. Stir until dissolved.
- Assemble your drink: Add the cooked tapioca pearls to a glass. Pour in the sweetened matcha, followed by milk. Stir gently to combine.
- Serve and enjoy: Add ice cubes for a chilled treat. Sip and savor the creamy, earthy goodness!
Variations with Vanilla or Coconut Milk
Want to mix things up? Try these variations:
- Vanilla Matcha Bubble Tea: Add a splash of vanilla extract to the matcha mixture for a hint of sweetness.
- Coconut Matcha Bubble Tea: Swap regular milk with coconut milk for a tropical twist. The creamy coconut flavor complements the matcha beautifully.
Both options elevate the flavor of your matcha bubble tea, making it even more irresistible.
Pro Tip: Experiment with the ratio of matcha to milk to find your perfect balance. A stronger matcha flavor works well with sweeter milk options like coconut or vanilla.
Taro Milk Tea Boba
Taro bubble tea is a fan favorite for its creamy texture and unique nutty-sweet flavor. Whether you use fresh taro or powdered taro, this recipe will help you create a delicious drink that rivals any café version.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make taro bubble tea:
Ingredient | Measurement |
Fresh taro (or taro powder) | 1 cup (or 2 tbsp taro powder) |
Tapioca pearls | 1 cup |
Sugar or sweetener | 2 tbsp (adjust to taste) |
Black tea (optional) | 1/2 cup |
Milk (or plant-based milk) | 1 cup |
Ice cubes | As needed |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the taro paste: If using fresh taro, steam or boil it until soft, then mash it into a smooth paste. For taro powder, mix it with a little hot water to form a paste.
- Cook the tapioca pearls: Boil water and add the tapioca pearls. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until they float. Rinse with cold water.
- Brew the tea: If you’re adding tea, steep black tea in hot water and let it cool.
- Blend the drink: Combine the taro paste, milk, sugar, and tea (if using) in a blender. Blend until smooth. Chill or add ice cubes.
- Assemble your bubble tea: Add tapioca pearls to a glass. Pour in the taro milk tea and stir gently. Enjoy your homemade taro bubble tea!
Using Fresh vs. Powdered Taro
Choosing between fresh and powdered taro depends on your preference and convenience. Fresh taro offers a more natural flavor and higher mineral content, including zinc, iron, and calcium. However, powdered taro is quicker to prepare and has higher antioxidant activity and phenol levels, as shown below:
COMPONENTS | RAW TARO | TARO POWDER |
Antioxidant Activity (% LP) | 74.68 ± 0.44 | 81.77 ± 0.47 |
Phenols (mg/100g) | 34.83 ± 0.28 | 78.33 ± 0.66 |
Flavonoids (mg/100g) | 28.56 ± 0.23 | 64.23 ± 0.54 |
Tip: If you’re short on time, taro powder is a great option. For a more authentic taste, go for fresh taro. Either way, your taro bubble tea will be a hit!
Thai Bubble Tea
Thai bubble tea is a colorful and tasty drink. It mixes creamy milk tea with special Thai spices. Its bright orange color and smooth texture make it unique. Let’s learn how to make this yummy drink at home!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make Thai bubble tea:
Ingredient | Measurement |
Thai tea mix | 2 tbsp |
Hot water | 1 cup |
Sugar or sweetener | 2 tbsp (adjust to taste) |
Tapioca pearls | 1 cup |
Milk (or plant-based milk) | 1 cup |
Ice cubes | As needed |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the tapioca pearls: Boil water and add the tapioca pearls. Stir often so they don’t stick. Cook for 5-7 minutes until they float. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- Brew the tea: Steep the Thai tea mix in hot water for 5 minutes. Strain the tea and let it cool.
- Sweeten the tea: Mix sugar or sweetener into the tea. Stir until it dissolves.
- Put the drink together: Add cooked tapioca pearls to a glass. Pour in the sweetened tea, then add milk. Stir gently to mix.
- Serve and enjoy: Add ice cubes if you want it cold. Sip and enjoy the creamy, spiced flavor!
Adding Spices for Extra Flavor
Want to make your Thai bubble tea even better? Add spices for more taste and an authentic feel. Try these options:
- Crushed tamarind seeds
- Star anise
- Cardamom
- Orange blossom water
Each spice adds something special. Cardamom gives a warm, sweet flavor. Star anise makes the taste richer. Here’s a quick look at their benefits:
Spice | Benefits |
Cardamom | Helps digestion and reduces stomach bloating. |
Star Anise | Boosts flavor and has health benefits. |
Cloves | Fights germs and helps with inflammation. |
Ginger | Reduces swelling and helps with joint pain. |
Cinnamon | Adds flavor and helps reduce inflammation. |
Tip: Try different spices to find your favorite mix. A little cinnamon or orange blossom water can make your Thai bubble tea amazing!
Honeydew Boba Tea
Honeydew boba tea is a refreshing and fruity twist on the classic bubble tea. Its sweet, melon flavor pairs beautifully with creamy milk and chewy tapioca pearls. If you’re looking for a light and delicious drink, this recipe is perfect for you!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make honeydew boba tea:
Ingredient | Measurement |
Fresh honeydew melon | 1 cup (cubed) |
Tapioca pearls | 1 cup |
Sugar or sweetener | 2 tbsp (adjust to taste) |
Milk (or plant-based milk) | 1 cup |
Ice cubes | As needed |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the tapioca pearls: Boil water in a pot and add the tapioca pearls. Stir occasionally to prevent clumping. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until they float. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- Prepare the honeydew: Blend the honeydew cubes with sugar or sweetener until smooth. Strain the mixture if you prefer a smoother texture.
- Assemble your drink: Add the cooked tapioca pearls to a glass. Pour in the honeydew mixture, followed by milk. Stir gently to combine.
- Serve and enjoy: Add ice cubes for a chilled treat. Sip and savor the fruity, creamy goodness!
Tips for Using Fresh Honeydew
Using fresh honeydew makes a big difference in flavor and nutrition. Here’s why you should choose fresh honeydew for your bubble tea:
- Fresh honeydew is packed with antioxidants and vitamins, making your drink healthier.
- The fruit flavor segment, which includes honeydew, accounts for over 37.85% of bubble tea market revenue. This shows how much people love fruity bubble tea!
- Fresh honeydew gives your drink a natural sweetness and vibrant color that powdered alternatives can’t match.
Tip: Pick a ripe honeydew by checking for a sweet aroma and a slightly soft texture. A ripe melon will make your boba tea taste amazing!
Strawberry Bubble Tea
Strawberry bubble tea is a fruity, refreshing drink that’s perfect for any time of the year. Its sweet and tangy flavor pairs beautifully with creamy milk and chewy tapioca pearls. Let’s dive into this easy recipe and bring a café favorite to your kitchen!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make strawberry bubble tea:
Ingredient | Measurement |
Fresh strawberries | 1 cup (hulled and sliced) |
Tapioca pearls | 1 cup |
Sugar or sweetener | 2 tbsp (adjust to taste) |
Milk (or plant-based milk) | 1 cup |
Ice cubes | As needed |
Tip: Use ripe strawberries for the best flavor. They’ll make your bubble tea naturally sweet and vibrant.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the tapioca pearls: Boil water in a pot and add the tapioca pearls. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until they float. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- Prepare the strawberry base: Blend the strawberries with sugar or sweetener until smooth. Strain the mixture if you prefer a smoother texture.
- Assemble your drink: Add the cooked tapioca pearls to a glass. Pour in the strawberry mixture, followed by milk. Stir gently to combine.
- Serve and enjoy: Add ice cubes for a chilled treat. Sip and savor the fruity, creamy goodness of your homemade bubble tea!

Variations with Fresh Strawberries or Syrup
Want to switch things up? Here are two ways to customize your strawberry bubble tea:
- Fresh Strawberries: Blend fresh strawberries for a natural, vibrant flavor. This option is perfect if you love the taste of real fruit.
- Strawberry Syrup: Use strawberry syrup for a quicker option. It’s convenient and gives your drink a consistent sweetness.
Both options work well, so choose what suits your taste and time.
Pro Tip: Add a splash of vanilla extract or a handful of frozen strawberries for an extra flavor boost.
Coffee Milk Tea Boba
Coffee milk tea boba is the perfect drink for coffee and tea lovers. It combines the boldness of coffee with the smoothness of milk tea, creating a unique flavor that’s both energizing and comforting. Let’s dive into this easy recipe and make your own café-style bubble tea at home!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make coffee milk tea boba:
Ingredient | Measurement |
Freshly brewed coffee | 1/2 cup |
Black tea leaves (or tea bags) | 2 tbsp (or 2 tea bags) |
Tapioca pearls | 1 cup |
Sugar or sweetener | 2 tbsp (adjust to taste) |
Milk (or plant-based milk) | 1 cup |
Ice cubes | As needed |
Tip: Use strong coffee, like espresso or French press, for a richer flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the tapioca pearls: Boil water in a pot and add the tapioca pearls. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until they float. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- Brew the tea: Steep black tea leaves in hot water for 5 minutes. Strain and let it cool.
- Prepare the coffee: Brew your coffee using your preferred method. Let it cool to room temperature.
- Assemble your drink: Add the cooked tapioca pearls to a glass. Pour in the brewed coffee, followed by the tea and milk. Stir gently to combine.
- Serve and enjoy: Add ice cubes for a refreshing twist. Sip and savor the bold, creamy flavors of your homemade bubble tea!
Balancing Coffee and Tea Flavors
Getting the right balance between coffee and tea is key to this recipe. Here are some tips to help you perfect it:
- Use equal parts coffee and tea for a balanced flavor. If you prefer a stronger coffee taste, increase the coffee slightly.
- Choose a robust black tea, like Assam or Ceylon, to complement the coffee’s boldness.
- Sweeten your drink to taste. A little sugar can help bring out the flavors of both the coffee and tea.
Pro Tip: Experiment with different coffee-to-tea ratios to find your perfect blend. You can even try flavored syrups, like caramel or hazelnut, for an extra twist!
Coffee milk tea boba is a fun and delicious way to enjoy two classic beverages in one. With this recipe, you’ll have a café-quality drink ready to enjoy anytime.
Chocolate Boba Tea
Chocolate boba tea is perfect for anyone who loves chocolate. It mixes creamy chocolate flavor with chewy tapioca pearls. This drink is a sweet treat and fun to make. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make chocolate boba tea:
Ingredient | Measurement |
Tapioca pearls | 1 cup |
Cocoa powder | 2 tbsp |
Sugar or sweetener | 2 tbsp (adjust to taste) |
Milk (or plant-based milk) | 1 cup |
Hot water | 1/4 cup |
Chocolate syrup (optional) | 1 tbsp |
Ice cubes | As needed |
Tip: Pick good-quality cocoa powder for the best chocolate taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the tapioca pearls: Boil water and add the tapioca pearls. Stir often so they don’t stick. Cook for 5-7 minutes until they float. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- Make the chocolate mix: Combine cocoa powder, sugar, and hot water in a bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Build your drink: Put the cooked tapioca pearls in a glass. Add the chocolate mix, then pour in the milk. Stir gently to blend.
- Serve and enjoy: Add ice cubes if you like it cold. Sip and enjoy the rich, chocolatey flavor!
Fun Ideas with Mint or Hazelnut
Want to make your chocolate boba tea even better? Try these ideas:
- Mint Chocolate Bubble Tea: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the chocolate mix. It gives a cool, minty twist to the drink.
- Hazelnut Chocolate Bubble Tea: Mix in a spoonful of hazelnut spread or syrup. It adds a nutty, delicious flavor.
These ideas make your drink extra special and tasty.
Pro Tip: Add whipped cream or chocolate sprinkles on top for a fancy touch!
Wintermelon Milk Tea Boba
Wintermelon milk tea boba is a refreshing drink with a unique, subtly sweet flavor. It’s perfect for anyone who loves bubble tea but wants to try something a little different. Let’s dive into this easy recipe and create your own café-style drink at home!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make wintermelon bubble tea:
Ingredient | Measurement |
Wintermelon syrup | 2 tbsp |
Tapioca pearls | 1 cup |
Black tea leaves (or tea bags) | 2 tbsp (or 2 tea bags) |
Milk (or plant-based milk) | 1 cup |
Ice cubes | As needed |
Tip: You can find wintermelon syrup at most Asian grocery stores or online.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the tapioca pearls: Boil water in a pot and add the tapioca pearls. Stir occasionally to keep them from sticking. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until they float. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- Brew the tea: Steep black tea leaves in hot water for 5 minutes. Strain and let it cool.
- Prepare the wintermelon base: Mix the wintermelon syrup with the brewed tea. Stir until well combined.
- Assemble your drink: Add the cooked tapioca pearls to a glass. Pour in the wintermelon tea mixture, followed by milk. Stir gently to combine.
- Serve and enjoy: Add ice cubes for a chilled treat. Sip and savor the unique flavor of your homemade bubble tea!
Achieving the Perfect Sweetness
Getting the sweetness just right is key to making the best wintermelon bubble tea. Here are some tips to help you:
- Start with 2 tablespoons of wintermelon syrup and adjust to taste. If you like your boba tea sweeter, add a little more syrup.
- Use a sweetened milk option, like condensed milk, for an extra creamy and sugary twist.
- Balance the sweetness with the tea’s strength. A stronger tea base can help offset the syrup’s sweetness.
Pro Tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of honey or a pinch of sea salt for a unique flavor contrast.
With this recipe, you’ll have a delicious wintermelon milk tea boba ready to enjoy. It’s a fun and easy way to bring the bubble tea experience to your kitchen!
You’ve now got ten amazing bubble tea recipes to try at home! From classic milk tea to fruity honeydew and rich chocolate boba, there’s something for everyone. Why not experiment with your own flavors? Making boba tea is not just delicious—it’s creative and fun. So grab your ingredients and start bubbling!

FAQ
What is bubble tea, and why is it so popular?
Bubble tea is a sweet drink with tea, milk, and chewy tapioca pearls. Its unique texture and endless flavor options make it a global favorite.
Can I make bubble tea without tapioca pearls?
Yes! You can use alternatives like jelly cubes, chia seeds, or fruit bits. These add fun textures while keeping the drink delicious.
How do I store leftover bubble tea?
Store bubble tea in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Keep the tapioca pearls separate, as they harden when refrigerated.