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Ube Milk Tea with Tapioca Pearls Recipe

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4.7 from 126 reviews

This Ube Milk Tea Bubble recipe combines the vibrant, naturally sweet flavor of ube with creamy coconut milk and tapioca pearls to create a refreshing and visually stunning drink. Perfect for a delightful treat or a unique beverage to impress guests, it blends traditional Asian flavors with a modern twist of bubble tea culture.

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 the 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 gentle boil to dissolve the sugar and begin softening the ube.
  2. Thicken the Mixture: Continue cooking the mixture over medium heat, stirring regularly until it thickens enough that a spatula leaves a trail when dragged through it. Stir in the ube extract evenly to enhance the color and flavor.
  3. Adjust Texture: Add 125 to 250 ml of milk or evaporated milk to the thickened ube mixture to achieve a thick but pourable consistency. Heat through for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer the ube base to a jar and refrigerate; it can be kept for 4 to 5 days.
  4. Cook Tapioca Pearls: Prepare the tapioca pearls according to package instructions or your homemade recipe. Once cooked, soak them briefly in warm water or mix with honey to prevent clumping and add subtle sweetness.
  5. Blend the Drink: In a blender, combine 120 ml of the prepared ube base, ice cubes to your liking, and 480 ml of cold milk or plant-based milk. Blend until smooth and homogenous. Sweeten with honey if desired.
  6. Assemble and Serve: Divide the cooked tapioca pearls evenly between two tall glasses. Optionally, streak the sides of the glasses with extra ube base for a decorative effect. Pour the blended ube milk mixture over the pearls and serve with wide straws to enjoy the bubbles and creamy texture.

Notes

  • The ube base can be refrigerated for up to 4–5 days, making it convenient to prepare in advance.
  • If you prefer a sweeter or richer flavor, adjust the sugar and milk quantities to taste.
  • Use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk to make this recipe dairy-free.
  • Quick-cook tapioca pearls are a time-saving option, but homemade pearls offer a fresher texture.
  • Honey is optional and can be omitted or substituted with other sweeteners to suit dietary preferences.