How to Make Matcha Bubble Tea

The global bubble tea market is projected to reach $4.3 billion by 2027. This massive growth is fueled by increasing demand for healthier, tea-based beverages, with matcha becoming a popular alternative to traditional milk tea.

Matcha Bubble Tea is a creamy, energizing drink that combines Japanese matcha with sweet, chewy tapioca pearls. Unlike store-bought versions that often contain artificial sweeteners and additives, this homemade recipe allows you to control the ingredients while enjoying a rich, refreshing flavor. In just 25 minutes, you can make café-quality matcha boba tea at home. Let’s get started!

What is Matcha Bubble Tea

Matcha Bubble Tea, also called Matcha Boba Tea, is a fusion of Japanese matcha latte and Taiwanese bubble tea. It consists of finely ground green tea powder (matcha), milk, and sweetened tapioca pearls. Unlike traditional milk tea, which uses black tea, matcha provides a smooth, earthy flavor and a natural energy boost.

Matcha contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes calmness and focus, making it an excellent alternative to coffee. Combined with the chewy texture of boba pearls, this drink offers a satisfying and refreshing experience.

How to Make Matcha Bubble Tea 

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients

For the Matcha Milk:

• • • 1 ½ cups milk (dairy or plant-based such as oat, almond, or coconut)
    • 2 teaspoons matcha powder (ceremonial or culinary grade)
    • 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (adjust to taste)
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
    • 1 cup ice

For the Boba Pearls:

• • • ½ cup dark brown sugar
    • ½ cup water
    • 1 cup tapioca pearls
    • 4 cups water (for boiling boba)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Brown Sugar Syrup

In a small saucepan, combine ½ cup water and ½ cup dark brown sugar, then heat over medium, stirring with a silicone spatula until the sugar fully dissolves. Once combined, remove from heat and let the syrup cool. This step enhances the flavor of the tapioca pearls, giving them a rich, caramel-like taste.

Step 2: Cook the Tapioca Pearls

Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a stainless steel pot, then add 1 cup of tapioca pearls, stirring to prevent sticking. Cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, then strain the pearls and transfer them to the brown sugar syrup to soak for 5-10 minutes. This step helps the boba absorb flavor while keeping it soft and chewy.

Step 3: Prepare the Matcha Milk

In a mixing bowl or blender, combine 1 ½ cups of milk, 2 teaspoons of matcha powder, 1 teaspoon of sugar or honey, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a Zulay Kitchen milk frother or whisk for 2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and frothy. Sifting the matcha powder beforehand ensures a clump-free texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Matcha Bubble Tea

In a tall serving glass, add the tapioca pearls with syrup at the bottom, followed by 1 cup of ice. Pour the frothy matcha milk over the ice, stir lightly, and sprinkle extra matcha powder on top if desired. Serve with a wide boba straw and enjoy.

Health Benefits of Matcha Bubble Tea

• Boosts Metabolism: Matcha contains EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), a compound known to enhance fat oxidation and energy production. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to support weight management and maintain steady energy levels throughout the day.
• Improves Focus: The L-theanine in matcha promotes a state of calm alertness by increasing alpha brain wave activity, which helps improve mental clarity and reduce stress levels. Unlike coffee, which can cause jitters or energy crashes, matcha provides a more sustained and steady focus.
• Rich in Antioxidants: Matcha is one of the most antioxidant-dense superfoods, containing up to 137 times more antioxidants than regular green tea. These antioxidants, particularly catechins, help neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and protecting the body from premature aging and chronic diseases.
• Supports Heart Health: Studies suggest that regular green tea consumption lowers LDL (bad cholesterol) and helps regulate blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. The catechins in matcha also contribute to better circulation and overall cardiovascular health.

Make Your Own Matcha Bubble Tea Today!

Homemade Matcha Bubble Tea is an easy and customizable drink that you can enjoy anytime. Unlike store-bought options, this version is made with high-quality ingredients and allows you to adjust sweetness, creaminess, and boba texture. 

Let us know how your Matcha Bubble Tea turned out in the comments below. For the best kitchen tools, visit Zulay Kitchen today.

Essential Kitchen Tools for This Recipe

• • Flour Sifter – Ensures smooth, clump-free matcha.
  • Measuring Cups – For precise ingredient portions.
  • Mixing Bowl – Ideal for blending matcha milk.
  • Honeycomb Ice Cube Tray – Creates evenly sized ice for a refreshing drink.

Upgrade your kitchen with these essentials and craft café-quality matcha bubble tea at home. Shop now at Zulay Kitchen!

Frequently Asked Questions About Matcha Bubble Tea

What’s the best type of matcha for bubble tea?

For matcha bubble tea, ceremonial-grade matcha is the highest quality, offering a smooth, naturally sweet flavor. Culinary-grade matcha is slightly more bitter and best for baking or lattes. Always choose pure, bright green matcha with no additives. Cheap, low-quality matcha can be dull in color and overly bitter.

How do I make this drink dairy-free?

To make dairy-free matcha bubble tea, use plant-based milk such as oat, almond, or coconut. Oat milk provides a creamy texture, while coconut milk adds a slight natural sweetness. Choose unsweetened versions if you want to control the sugar content.

Where can I buy boba pearls?

Tapioca pearls are available at Asian grocery stores, online retailers, and specialty tea shops. Look for quick-cooking boba if you want a faster preparation time.

Can I store leftover bubble tea?

Matcha milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days, but boba pearls should be consumed fresh.

Is matcha bubble tea healthier than regular bubble tea?

Yes. Unlike traditional bubble tea, which often contains artificial flavors and excessive sugar, matcha is naturally rich in antioxidants and provides a clean source of caffeine.

Can I use honey instead of brown sugar?

Yes. Honey, agave, or maple syrup are excellent natural sweetener alternatives.