Classic Bubble Tea Recipe

Name: Classic Bubble Tea Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 cups
Cuisine: Taiwanese
Ingredients: 1 cup tapioca pearls (quick-cooking); 4 cups water (for cooking pearls); 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste); 2 cups strong brewed black tea (chilled); 1/2 cup milk or non-dairy alternative (chilled); Ice cubes (as needed)

40 min 4 cups Easy

All Recipes

Delight in this refreshing bubble tea, featuring chewy tapioca pearls and a sweet milk tea base.

Prep

10 min

Cook

30 min

Total

40 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Bubble tea, also known as boba, is a beloved beverage that originated in Taiwan. It has gained immense popularity worldwide, thanks to its delightful combination of sweet milk tea and chewy tapioca pearls. This classic version of bubble tea is easy to make at home, allowing you to enjoy this refreshing drink anytime. Whether you prefer it with black tea or a fruity twist, bubble tea is always a fun and satisfying treat.

Instructions

Prepare Tapioca Pearls

Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the tapioca pearls and cook for about 5 minutes or until they float to the top and are tender but chewy.

Pro tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Sweeten the Pearls

Drain the cooked pearls and rinse under cold water. Transfer to a bowl and mix with sugar. Let them soak while you prepare the tea.

Pro tip: Adjust the amount of sugar based on your sweetness preference.

Brew the Tea

Brew 2 cups of strong black tea and let it chill in the refrigerator.

Pro tip: Use your favourite black tea blend for a personalized flavour.

Assemble the Bubble Tea

In a shaker or a large jar, combine the chilled tea, milk, and ice cubes. Shake until well combined and frothy.

Pro tip: For a creamier texture, use whole milk or a rich non-dairy alternative.

Serve

Divide the sweetened tapioca pearls among four cups. Pour the tea mixture over the pearls, stir well, and serve with wide straws.

Pro tip: Serve immediately for the best texture.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use quick-cooking tapioca pearls to save time.
Adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more or less sugar.
Experiment with different tea flavours for variety.
Serve immediately after preparation for the best texture of the pearls.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make bubble tea?

Cook tapioca pearls, sweeten them, and combine with chilled tea and milk.

What tea is best for bubble tea?

Black tea is most commonly used, but green or fruit teas can also be used.

How long do tapioca pearls last?

Tapioca pearls are best consumed within a few hours of cooking as they lose their texture.

Can I use non-dairy milk in bubble tea?

Yes, non-dairy alternatives like almond or soy milk work well in bubble tea.

Is bubble tea gluten-free?

Yes, bubble tea is typically gluten-free, but always check the ingredients of the tapioca pearls to be sure.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your bubble tea immediately for the best experience, as the tapioca pearls are at their chewiest when freshly cooked. Pair it with a light snack like rice crackers or enjoy it as a standalone treat. To make ahead, prepare the tea and store it in the refrigerator. Cook the tapioca pearls just before serving, as they do not retain their chewy texture for long after cooking.

Nutrition per serving

160

Calories

Protein

Fat

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