Vanilla Bean Milk Tea

A creamy and aromatic homemade vanilla bean milk tea, perfectly balanced between robust black tea and sweet, fragrant vanilla.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Servings: 2 servings

Course: Beverage, Snack

Cuisine: Asian Fusion, Café Style

Calories: 280

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Tea Base

2 cups Water
2 bags Black Tea (e.g., Assam or Earl Grey) Or 2 teaspoons loose leaf
1/2 Vanilla Bean Scraped seeds only
2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar Adjust to taste

For Finishing

1 cup Whole Milk or Oat Milk For the creamiest result
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Optional, for extra flavor
To taste Ice Cubes

Method

Instructions

In a small saucepan, combine the water, tea bags (or loose tea in an infuser), scraped vanilla bean seeds, and granulated sugar.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then immediately reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes to allow the vanilla and sugar to infuse.
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Remove the tea bags/infuser and discard. Let the tea steep for another 5 minutes, covered, for a stronger brew.
Strain the tea concentrate into a bowl to remove any remaining vanilla pod residue. Stir in the vanilla extract (if using).
Divide the milk evenly between two tall glasses filled with ice cubes.
Slowly pour the warm, sweetened vanilla tea concentrate over the milk and ice. Stir gently until fully combined and chilled.
Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary, serving immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

For a classic Boba experience, cook tapioca pearls separately and add them to the bottom of the glass before adding the tea and milk. Full-fat milk provides the richest texture.