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Ube Milk Tea with Tapioca Pearls Recipe

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4.7 from 85 reviews

Delight in the vibrant and creamy flavors of Ube Milk Tea Bubble, a luscious beverage combining the sweet, purple goodness of ube with creamy coconut milk, rich tapioca pearls, and a smooth milk tea blend. Perfectly balanced with hints of vanilla and ube extract, this refreshing drink is ideal for anyone craving a unique twist on traditional bubble tea.

Ingredients

Ube Base (yields enough for 8–10 drinks)

  • 226 g frozen ube, thawed
  • 250 ml canned coconut milk
  • 100 g granulated sugar
  • 15 ml vanilla extract
  • 15 ml ube extract
  • 125–250 ml milk or evaporated milk

Assembly for Two Drinks

  • 120 ml quick-cook tapioca pearls or homemade tapioca pearls
  • 120 ml prepared ube base
  • 480 ml cold milk or plant-based milk
  • Ice cubes, as needed
  • Honey, to taste (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ube Base: In a saucepan, combine the thawed frozen ube, canned coconut milk, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir frequently over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
  2. Thicken the Mixture: Continue cooking while stirring regularly until the mixture thickens enough that a spatula leaves a trail when drawn across the surface. Then incorporate the ube extract for enhanced flavor.
  3. Adjust Consistency: Gradually add 125–250 ml of milk or evaporated milk to achieve a thick but pourable texture. Heat through for an additional 1–2 minutes, then transfer the ube base to a jar and refrigerate for up to 4–5 days.
  4. Cook Tapioca Pearls: Prepare the tapioca pearls according to the package instructions or your homemade recipe. Once cooked, briefly soak the pearls in warm water or mix them with honey to prevent sticking.
  5. Blend Milk Tea: In a blender, combine 120 ml of the prepared ube base, ice cubes as needed, and 480 ml cold milk or plant-based milk. Blend until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. Sweeten with honey to taste, if desired.
  6. Assemble Drinks: Evenly divide the cooked tapioca pearls between two tall glasses. Optionally, streak the inside sides of glasses with extra ube base for presentation. Pour the blended ube milk mixture over the pearls and serve with wide straws.

Notes

  • Ube base can be refrigerated up to 4–5 days for convenience.
  • Adjust milk quantity in the ube base to your preferred consistency.
  • Use plant-based milk alternatives to make the drink vegan-friendly.
  • Honey is optional and can be substituted with other sweeteners.
  • Ensure tapioca pearls are fresh and properly cooked for the best chewy texture.