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homemade vanilla bubble tea in serving cup with wide boba straw

Vanilla Bubble Tea Recipe

Courtney
Homemade vanilla bubble tea is the ultimate treat! Who doesn’t love a sweet vanilla bean-flavored drink that is creamy and full of boba balls? This recipe is super easy to make at home and saves time and money.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Additional Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Course Black Tea
Cuisine Asian
Servings 2
Calories 665 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 Teaspoons Black Tea or 3 Tea Bags
  • 1 -2 Cups Milk
  • Vanilla Simple Syrup entire recipe below
  • 1/2 Cup Boba
  • 7 Cups Water 5 Cups for cooking boba, 2 Cups for Tea

Vanilla Simple Syrup

  • 1/2 Cup Sugar
  • 1/2 Cup Water
  • 1 Tablespoon Vanilla Extract

Instructions
 

  • Step One: Start by making the vanilla simple syrup.Add 1/2 Cup water, 1/2 Cup Sugar, and 1 Tablespoon of Vanilla Extract to a small saucepan. Simmer on low until the sugar is dissolved. Set aside to cool.
  • Step Two: Make Tea Add 2 black tea bags to a small teapot and pour over 2 cups of water. Steep for 5 minutes and then remove tea bags squeezing out extra liquid and discarding the tea bags.
  • Step Three: Cook Boba Balls (Note: cook boba according to the packaging instructions, this is a general recipe for cooking boba that can be used if instructions are not available)
  • Bring 5 Cups of water to a boil in a large pot.
  • Pour in boba balls into boiling water and stir. 
  • Once the balls rise to the surface
  • cover and cook for about 2-3 minutes. (Or until preferred doneness.)
  • Scoop out the boba with a stainer to release any water and drop the boba in the vanilla simple syrup.
  • Step Four: Construct Drink
  • Scoop half of the boba balls with a 1/4 measuring cup and any syrup with it and add to the bottom of one serving cup. Repeat for a second serving cup.
  • Add a scoop of ice to both serving glasses.
  • Pour half the tea in one serving glass and the remaining tea in the second serving glass.
  • Top both drinks with milk.
  • Add a wide boba straw.
  • Enjoy!

Notes

  • The type of milk you use can alter the taste of your Vanilla Bubble Tea. For a creamy variation, opt for whole milk or even half-and-half. If you’re looking for a dairy-free or vegan version, almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk can be excellent substitutes.
  • The sugar in the Vanilla Simple Syrup can be replaced with other sweeteners like honey or agave for a healthier twist.
  • Feel free to give your tea a little stir as the syrup and milk tend to settle at the bottom.
  • If you prefer an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to your tea.
  • Remember, the boba balls are best when fresh. Serve your Vanilla Bubble Tea immediately after preparation for the most enjoyable experience.
  • If you want to spice up your drink even more, consider using chai tea instead of black tea for a unique and delicious twist on this classic bubble tea recipe. The vanilla flavor pairs perfectly with the spiciness of chai
  • Feel free to play around with the ratios of tea, milk, and vanilla simple syrup until you find the perfect balance for your taste. That’s the beauty of making bubble tea at home – you can customize it exactly how you like it!

This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only.

Keyword vanilla bubble tea