If you’ve ever found yourself craving a refreshing yet creamy treat that perfectly balances fruity sweetness and chewy fun, then this Strawberry Bubble Tea (Boba, Milk Tea) Recipe is about to become your new best friend. This vibrant drink combines luscious plant-based milk with fresh strawberries and those irresistible boba pearls for a delightful burst of flavor and texture in every sip. Whether you’re a longtime boba enthusiast or trying bubble tea for the first time, this recipe brings homemade magic to your kitchen in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, natural ingredients is key to making this Strawberry Bubble Tea (Boba, Milk Tea) Recipe truly sing. Each component plays its role, from the creamy plant-based milk creating smoothness to the fresh strawberries brightening the flavor and the chewy pearls adding that signature fun texture.
- 2 cups plant-based milk: Choose your favorite for a creamy base that’s dairy-free and delicious.
- 1 packed cup fresh strawberries: Fresh gives the best taste, but frozen works well too if you’re out of season.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the strawberry flavor.
- 1-3 tbsp maple syrup: Adjust the sweetness exactly to your liking with this natural sweetener.
- 1 bag green or black tea (optional): Brewing tea adds a subtle earthiness; rooibos is a great caffeine-free option.
- ½ cup hot water (optional): Needed only if you’re brewing tea to infuse your beverage with mild tannins.
- ½ cup uncooked boba pearls: These chewy pearls make bubble tea truly bubble tea!
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make Strawberry Bubble Tea (Boba, Milk Tea) Recipe
Step 1: Brew Your Tea (Optional)
If you’re adding tea to your bubble tea, start by steeping the tea bag in ½ cup of hot water for 5-10 minutes. This imparts a delicate flavor that pairs beautifully with the strawberries and milk. Once brewed, set the tea aside in the fridge to chill while you prepare the other components. If you prefer a caffeine-free drink, feel free to skip this step or use rooibos tea for a cozy twist.
Step 2: Cook the Boba Pearls
Bring a medium pot of water to a rolling boil and add the uncooked boba pearls. Let them simmer gently for 5-10 minutes until they reach the perfect chewy texture. When done, remove the pot from heat but keep the pearls resting in the hot water for another 5 minutes to soften fully. Drain the pearls well before assembling your drink. This process is the heart of bubble tea’s playful charm, so don’t rush it!
Step 3: Blend the Strawberry Milk Tea
Into a blender, combine the chilled brewed tea, plant-based milk, fresh strawberries, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. Blend on high until everything is beautifully smooth and creamy. Give it a taste test and adjust with a bit more sweetener or vanilla if you want to amp up the flavor. This luscious blend is what brings the strawberry sensation to life.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Divide the cooked boba pearls evenly between two tall glasses. Add ice cubes to fill each glass about halfway, then pour the strawberry milk tea mixture over the top. Don’t forget a wide bubble tea straw to truly enjoy those chewy pearls as you sip. Now, your homemade Strawberry Bubble Tea (Boba, Milk Tea) Recipe is ready to delight you!
How to Serve Strawberry Bubble Tea (Boba, Milk Tea) Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your bubble tea experience, try adding a few fresh strawberry slices on top or a sprig of mint for a refreshing aroma. A small drizzle of strawberry syrup on the rim of your glass can make the presentation pop. These simple garnishes turn an everyday drink into a mini celebration.
Side Dishes
Pair this creamy bubble tea with light snacks like crispy spring rolls, fresh fruit skewers, or crunchy popcorn chicken for a fun and flavorful combo. The sweetness and creaminess of the drink beautifully balance savory or spiced bites, making your snack time feel extra special.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Strawberry Bubble Tea (Boba, Milk Tea) Recipe in clear mason jars or tall glass tumblers to showcase the lovely strawberry hue and glossy boba pearls. For a party, arrange a bubble tea bar with toppings like popping boba, jelly cubes, or colorful straws so everyone can personalize their drinks. Turning the serving into an interactive experience doubles the fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover strawberry milk tea, store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Give it a good stir or shake before serving again since separation can occur. The boba pearls, however, are best enjoyed fresh as they tend to harden over time.
Freezing
The strawberry milk tea base can be frozen in an airtight container for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge and stir well. Avoid freezing cooked boba pearls, as their texture will degrade and become less pleasant once thawed.
Reheating
For a cozy twist, gently warm any leftover milk tea on the stove or in the microwave before drinking, but avoid reheating boba pearls to maintain their signature chew. Adding fresh pearls or topping with ice can refresh your bubble tea anytime.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work great and can even make your bubble tea chilled and refreshing right away. Just be sure to let them thaw slightly or blend directly with ice to keep that smooth texture.
Is it necessary to brew tea for this recipe?
No, brewing tea is optional in this Strawberry Bubble Tea (Boba, Milk Tea) Recipe. Omitting it creates a naturally sweet and creamy fruit milk drink that kids and adults alike will adore. Using tea adds complexity and traditional bubble tea flair.
Where can I buy boba pearls?
Look for uncooked boba pearls at Asian grocery stores or online specialty markets. They usually come in small packages and require cooking before use, like described in this recipe.
Can I substitute maple syrup with another sweetener?
Yes! Honey, agave syrup, or simple syrup all work well to sweeten your bubble tea according to your taste. Just adjust the amount gradually to find the perfect balance.
How long does it take to cook boba pearls?
Typically, boba pearls need 5-10 minutes of simmering followed by 5 minutes resting in hot water. This timing ensures they become tender but chewy enough for that classic bubble tea mouthfeel.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Bubble Tea (Boba, Milk Tea) Recipe is a fun and delicious way to bring a taste of your favorite bubble tea shop right into your home. It’s quick to make, wonderfully customizable, and perfect for sharing with friends or treating yourself. I encourage you to try it out, experiment with your favorite milk or tea variations, and enjoy every sip of this fruity, creamy delight.
PrintStrawberry Bubble Tea (Boba, Milk Tea) Recipe
A refreshing and delicious Strawberry Bubble Tea recipe featuring fresh strawberries, plant-based milk, and chewy boba pearls. This homemade boba milk tea is naturally sweetened with maple syrup and can be customized with your choice of tea or enjoyed caffeine-free. Perfect for a quick 15-minute treat that serves 2.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Tea Base (Optional)
- 1 bag green or black tea (optional; for caffeine-free, use rooibos tea)
- ½ cup hot water
Boba Pearls
- ½ cup uncooked boba pearls
- Water for boiling
Strawberry Milk Tea
- 2 cups plant-based milk (e.g., almond, oat, soy)
- 1 packed cup fresh strawberries (can also use frozen)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–3 tbsp maple syrup (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Steep the Tea (Optional): Begin by brewing your tea if using. Steep the tea bag in ½ cup of hot water for 5 to 10 minutes. After steeping, remove the tea bag and place the tea in the fridge to chill until you’re ready to blend.
- Cook the Boba Pearls: Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Add the uncooked boba pearls and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes until they reach your desired chewy consistency. Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and let the pearls sit in the hot water for an additional 5 minutes to soften further. Then, drain them carefully.
- Prepare the Strawberry Milk Tea: In a blender, combine the chilled brewed tea (or just plant milk if skipping tea), plant-based milk, fresh strawberries, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the sweetness or strawberry flavor as desired.
- Assemble and Serve: Divide the cooked boba pearls evenly between two serving glasses. Add ice cubes to fill each glass halfway. Pour the blended strawberry milk tea over the ice and boba pearls. Serve immediately with a wide bubble tea straw for the best experience.
Notes
- You can use frozen strawberries if fresh are unavailable; thaw slightly for easier blending.
- For a caffeine-free version, omit the tea or use rooibos tea.
- Adjust maple syrup amount based on sweetness preference.
- Boba pearls can be found in Asian grocery stores or online.
- Serve immediately for the best texture; boba pearls can harden if left too long.
