Bubble Tea, also known as boba tea, is a playful and refreshing beverage that combines strong brewed black tea, creamy half & half, sweet sugar syrup, and soft, chewy tapioca pearls. The contrast of textures is what makes this drink so unique — smooth tea and cream paired with pleasantly gummy tapioca “bubbles” at the bottom of the glass. Served ice-cold with a wide straw, it’s both a drink and a dessert in one glass. Perfect for warm afternoons or when you want something a little indulgent and fun.

Ingredients

Tapioca

•  1/2 cup large pearl tapioca, dried
•  2 cups room temperature water

Sugar Syrup

• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water

Tea

• 2 black tea bags or 2 servings loose black tea
• 16 ounces hot water
• 1/2 cup half & half
• Ice (optional)

Preparation

1. Prepare the Tapioca: Place the dried tapioca pearls in a medium bowl.
2. Add 2 cups room temperature water. Cover and let sit overnight to soften.
3. Once plumped, strain and discard the soaking water. The tapioca should be soft and gummy in texture.
4. Prepare the Sugar Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and 1 cup water.
5. Heat over medium-low until all sugar has dissolved.
6. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature.
7. Prepare the Tea: Place the tea bags or loose tea in a heatproof bowl or pitcher.
8. Heat at least 20 ounces of water to near boiling.
9. Pour 16 ounces of the hot water over the tea.
10. Steep for 3–5 minutes.
11. Strain and cool to room temperature.
12. Assemble the Drinks: For each serving, place 1/4 cup prepared tapioca pearls into a tall glass.
13. Add 1/4 cup sugar syrup and 1/4 cup half & half to each glass.
14. Pour half of the brewed tea into each glass.
15. Stir well to combine.
16. Add ice if desired and serve immediately.

Cook’s Notes

• Tapioca pearls are best used the same day for ideal texture.
• Adjust sugar syrup to taste for a less sweet version.
• For a dairy-free option, substitute coconut milk or almond milk.

Serving Note

Traditionally served with a wide straw so you can sip the tea while enjoying the chewy tapioca pearls in every mouthful.