Print

Brown Sugar Bubble Tea with Homemade Boba Pearls – Better Than the Tea Shop!

Brown Sugar Bubble Tea with Homemade Boba Pearls – Better Than the Tea Shop!

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This homemade Brown Sugar Bubble Tea is rich, creamy, and packed with chewy boba pearls soaked in a deep caramel-like brown sugar syrup. With fresh, homemade tapioca pearls and strong black tea, this drink rivals any tea shop version! Plus, it’s fully customizable to suit your sweetness and tea preferences.

Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Boba Pearls:
    • 1/2 cup tapioca starch (plus extra for dusting)
    • 1/4 cup brown sugar
    • 1/4 cup water
  • For the Brown Sugar Syrup:
    • 1/2 cup brown sugar
    • 1/4 cup water
  • For the Bubble Tea:
    • 2 black tea bags (Assam or Earl Grey preferred)
    • 1 cup hot water
    • 1/2 cup milk (whole milk, oat milk, or other alternatives)
    • Ice cubes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the Boba Pearls:
    • In a saucepan, heat 1/4 cup water and 1/4 cup brown sugar until dissolved.
    • Remove from heat and stir in half the tapioca starch. Mix quickly.
    • Return to low heat and stir until a sticky dough forms.
    • Transfer the dough to a floured surface, knead in the remaining starch, and roll into tiny balls.
    • Boil the pearls in water for 15-20 minutes until they become dark and chewy. Rinse under cold water and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Brown Sugar Syrup:
    • In a small saucepan, simmer 1/2 cup brown sugar and 1/4 cup water until thickened (about 5 minutes).
    • Add the cooked boba pearls and stir to coat. Set aside.
  3. Brew the Tea:
    • Steep the black tea bags in 1 cup of hot water for 5 minutes. Remove bags and let the tea cool.
  4. Assemble the Bubble Tea:
    • Divide the boba pearls and syrup between two glasses.
    • Add ice cubes (if using), then pour in the brewed tea.
    • Top with milk and stir gently.
    • Serve with a wide straw and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use dark brown sugar for a more intense caramel flavor.
  • For classic “tiger stripes,” swirl the brown sugar syrup inside the glass before adding the tea.
  • Store extra boba pearls in syrup for up to 4 hours.
  • You can freeze uncooked boba pearls and boil them when needed.

Nutrition