Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsSakura Sushi & GrillClassic Bubble Tea Recipe

Classic Bubble Tea Recipe

Time1h
Serves2

Make Classic Bubble Tea Recipe in just 1h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Tea Base

Method

Preparing the Tea Base

  1. 1

    Brew the Tea

    In a small pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, add 2 tablespoons of black tea leaves. Reduce heat and let it steep for about 5 minutes.

  2. 2

    Sweeten the Tea

    After steeping, strain the tea into a large glass or pitcher. Add 2 tablespoons of sugar while the tea is still warm, stirring until fully dissolved. Set aside to cool.

Cooking the Tapioca Pearls

  1. 3

    Boil the Pearls

    In a medium pot, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 cup of tapioca pearls and stir gently to prevent sticking. Allow them to cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  2. 4

    Rinse and Sweeten

    Once cooked, remove from heat and let the pearls sit for an additional 10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water. If desired, mix the pearls with 2 tablespoons of brown sugar for added sweetness.

Assembling the Bubble Tea

  1. 5

    Combine Ingredients

    In a tall glass, add a generous portion of the cooked tapioca pearls (about 1/4 cup). Pour in the cooled sweetened tea, filling the glass about halfway.

  2. 6

    Add Milk and Ice

    Pour in 1 cup of milk, adding more or less to taste. Add ice cubes to fill the glass, then stir gently to combine.

  3. 7

    Serve

    Serve immediately with a large straw to enjoy the tapioca pearls. Optionally, add a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor.

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