Matcha bubble tea is one of the most popular boba drinks worldwide, combining the vibrant green color and antioxidant-rich flavor of Japanese matcha with chewy tapioca pearls and creamy milk. Making it at home with Senbird Tea’s ceremonial-grade matcha produces a result that surpasses most boba shop versions—with better matcha flavor, no artificial colors, and complete control over sweetness. This recipe takes about 25 minutes and yields one cafe-quality serving.
WHAT IS MATCHA BUBBLE TEA?
Matcha bubble tea (also called matcha boba) consists of whisked matcha green tea, milk, sweetener, ice, and tapioca pearls. Unlike most boba drinks that use pre-made syrups or powdered mixes, authentic matcha boba starts with real matcha powder whisked into hot water. The quality of the matcha is the single biggest factor in the final drink—Senbird Tea’s Uji ceremonial-grade matcha dissolves cleanly and provides a rich, balanced flavor without the bitterness that lower grades produce when combined with milk.
MATCHA BUBBLE MILK TEA RECIPE
Ingredients:
- 2 teaspoons (4 g) Senbird Tea ceremonial-grade matcha
- 2 tablespoons hot water (80°C)
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk (whole, oat, or almond)
- 1/2 cup (80 g) tapioca pearls
- 2 tablespoons simple syrup or honey
- Ice
Instructions:
- Cook boba: Boil tapioca pearls for 15–20 minutes until chewy throughout. Drain and toss in 1 tablespoon of simple syrup.
- Make matcha concentrate: Sift matcha into a bowl, add 2 tablespoons of 80°C water, and whisk vigorously until smooth with no clumps.
- Assemble: Place sweetened boba in a tall glass. Add ice. Pour cold milk over the ice, then drizzle the matcha concentrate on top for a layered effect. Stir before drinking.
Yield: 1 serving | Prep: 5 min | Cook: 20 min
TIPS FOR THE BEST MATCHA BOBA
Always sift the matcha before whisking. Matcha clumps easily, and even vigorous stirring may not break up every lump once milk is added. Creating a smooth matcha paste first (with just water) ensures even distribution throughout the drink. Using Senbird Tea’s fine stone-ground matcha helps since the smaller particle size dissolves more readily than coarser alternatives.
For the most visually striking drink, pour the matcha concentrate last on top of the milk layer. The green matcha will slowly cascade through the white milk, creating the signature layered effect seen in boba cafes. Stir just before sipping to combine the flavors.
MATCHA BOBA VS CLASSIC MILK TEA BOBA
| Feature | Matcha Boba | Classic Milk Tea Boba | Hojicha Boba |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tea base | Matcha powder | Black tea | Roasted green tea |
| Caffeine | 60–70 mg | 40–70 mg | 15–25 mg |
| Flavor | Grassy, creamy | Malty, sweet | Toasty, caramel |
| Antioxidants | Very high (EGCG) | Moderate | Moderate |
WHAT GRADE OF MATCHA IS BEST FOR BUBBLE TEA?
Ceremonial-grade matcha produces the best flavor in boba because it has less bitterness and a smoother taste when combined with milk. Culinary-grade matcha works but requires more sweetener to balance its sharper flavor. Senbird Tea’s ceremonial-grade matcha is ideal since it dissolves cleanly and provides vibrant color without artificial additives.
CAN YOU MAKE MATCHA BUBBLE TEA WITHOUT DAIRY?
Yes. Oat milk is the most popular non-dairy option for matcha boba because its natural sweetness and creamy texture complement matcha well. Almond milk and coconut milk also work—almond produces a lighter drink while coconut adds richness. The matcha flavor comes through clearly with any milk choice.
HOW DO YOU PREVENT MATCHA FROM CLUMPING IN COLD DRINKS?
Always dissolve matcha in a small amount of hot water first to create a smooth paste before adding cold milk or ice. Matcha powder will not dissolve properly in cold liquid alone. A quick 10-second whisk with 2 tablespoons of 80°C water creates the concentrate that blends seamlessly into the cold drink.
IS MATCHA BUBBLE TEA HEALTHY?
The matcha component provides significant antioxidants (EGCG), L-theanine for calm energy, and catechins for cardiovascular support. The less healthy components are the tapioca pearls (mostly starch) and added sweetener. To make a healthier version, reduce sugar, use unsweetened milk, and limit boba to 2–3 tablespoons per serving.
CAN YOU MAKE MATCHA BOBA AHEAD OF TIME?
You can prepare the matcha concentrate and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. However, cook boba fresh—they harden within 2–3 hours and cannot be reheated to their original texture. For meal prep, keep the matcha concentrate cold and cook boba just before assembling.
MORE MATCHA RECIPES FROM SENBIRD TEA
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Our best-selling ceremonial Okumidori matcha with a silky body, mellow cocoa notes, and refined umami, perfect for traditional preparation or refined lattes.
