Name: Thai Almond Milk Bubble Tea
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup black tapioca pearls; 1/2 cup raw or turbinado sugar; 1/4 cup almond syrup; 1/2 cup Thai tea mix (or 3-4 black tea bags); 1/2 cup almond milk (homemade or store-bought)

Indulging in a glass of Thai Almond Milk Bubble Tea is like taking a delightful trip to a bustling market in Thailand, where the aroma of sweet tea and fresh ingredients fills the air. This creamy, nutty beverage offers a refreshing twist on traditional bubble tea. Combining the rich flavors of Thai tea with the subtle sweetness of almond syrup and chewy black tapioca pearls, this drink is perfect for sipping on a sunny afternoon or serving at your next gathering. Let’s dive into how to create this deliciously satisfying drink from scratch!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

Every sip of Thai Almond Milk Bubble Tea feels like a celebration of flavors. The sweet and fragrant notes of Thai tea blend beautifully with the creamy almond milk, while the chewy tapioca pearls add a fun texture. Not only is this drink incredibly satisfying, but it’s also easy to customize. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing drink on a hot day or a unique beverage to impress your friends, this recipe has you covered. Plus, making it at home means you can control the sweetness and choose high-quality ingredients.

The Essentials

To create your own Thai Almond Milk Bubble Tea, you will need the following ingredients:

1/2 cup black tapioca pearls – These chewy pearls are the signature of bubble tea.
1/2 cup raw or turbinado sugar – This sweetener adds a rich flavor; you can also use a mix of granulated and brown sugar for a deeper taste.
1/4 cup almond syrup – This sweet syrup enhances the nutty flavor of the drink.
1/2 cup Thai tea mix – For an authentic flavor, use a high-quality Thai tea mix or 3-4 black tea bags.
1/2 cup almond milk – Homemade almond milk is best for this recipe, but store-bought works too.

Prep & Cook Tools

Before you start, gather the following tools to make your preparation seamless:

Medium saucepan – For boiling the tapioca pearls and brewing the tea.
Strainer – To drain the cooked tapioca pearls.
Measuring cups – For accurate ingredient measurements.
Glass or jar – To serve your bubble tea.
Spoon or straw – For mixing and enjoying your drink.

Make Thai Almond Milk Bubble Tea: A Simple Method

Follow these easy steps to whip up a refreshing glass of Thai Almond Milk Bubble Tea:

Step 1: Cook the Tapioca Pearls

In a medium saucepan, bring about 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the black tapioca pearls and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, remove from heat and let them sit for a few minutes before draining through a strainer. Rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and set aside.

Step 2: Sweeten the Pearls

In a small bowl, mix the drained tapioca pearls with 1-2 tablespoons of raw or turbinado sugar while they’re still warm. Allow the pearls to absorb the sweetness for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Brew the Tea

In the same saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the Thai tea mix or black tea bags and steep for about 5 minutes. Once brewed, remove the tea bags or strain out the tea leaves. Stir in the remaining sugar until dissolved, then let it cool to room temperature.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large glass or jar, add a generous portion of sweetened tapioca pearls at the bottom. Pour in the cooled tea, followed by the almond syrup. Top it off with almond milk, adjusting the amount to your preference for creaminess.

Step 5: Mix and Serve

Give the drink a gentle stir to combine all the ingredients. Add ice if desired and enjoy your delicious Thai Almond Milk Bubble Tea with a straw or spoon!

Adaptations for Special Diets

If you have specific dietary needs or preferences, consider these adaptations:

Vegan: This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses almond milk and plant-based sweeteners.
Low Sugar: Reduce the amount of sugar in the pearls and the tea to suit your taste.
Nut-Free: Substitute almond syrup with a vanilla or coconut syrup and use oat milk instead of almond milk.
Gluten-Free: Ensure that the tapioca pearls are certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.

If You’re Curious

This delightful drink not only satisfies your taste buds but also introduces you to the world of bubble tea, a popular beverage originating from Taiwan. Bubble tea, often referred to as boba, has gained immense popularity worldwide, with variations ranging from fruity to creamy. The chewy tapioca pearls are made from cassava starch, and when sweetened, they add a unique texture to drinks. You can experiment with different flavors by swapping the Thai tea for matcha or fruity teas, making this recipe versatile for your palate.

Make-Ahead & Storage

If you’re planning to enjoy this Thai Almond Milk Bubble Tea over a couple of days, here are some tips:

Tapioca Pearls: Cooked tapioca pearls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 4 hours. After that, they may harden.
Tea: Brewed Thai tea can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a stir before serving.
Almond Milk: Homemade almond milk can last in the fridge for about 4-5 days, while store-bought can last longer, so check the packaging.

Handy Q&A

Can I use different types of milk?

Absolutely! While almond milk gives a lovely nutty flavor, you can use any plant-based milk like coconut, soy, or oat milk, or even dairy milk if you prefer.

How do I make homemade almond milk?

To make homemade almond milk, soak 1 cup of raw almonds in water overnight. Drain and rinse them, then blend with 4 cups of fresh water until smooth. Strain through a nut milk bag or cheesecloth for a creamy texture.

Can I make this bubble tea without sugar?

Yes! You can omit the sugar entirely or substitute it with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit. Adjust to your taste preference.

What can I do with leftover tapioca pearls?

Leftover tapioca pearls can be added to smoothies or desserts, or you can enjoy them in a simple syrup as a topping for ice cream or yogurt, similar to how you would use Peanut Butter Yogurt Dip.

What to Make After This

Once you’ve mastered Thai Almond Milk Bubble Tea, why not try making some of these delicious dishes?

Saucy Peanut Noodles With Chicken – A flavorful and filling dish to complement your bubble tea.
Peanut Butter Yogurt Dip – A sweet and creamy treat that’s perfect for snacks.

Time to Try It

With this simple recipe at your fingertips, it’s time to treat yourself to a glass of Thai Almond Milk Bubble Tea. The combination of sweet tea, creamy almond milk, and chewy tapioca pearls will surely become a favorite. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and dive into this refreshing drink that brings a taste of Thailand right to your home. Enjoy every sip!