Easy Brown Sugar Boba

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is straightforward, uses minimal ingredients, and yields deliciously soft tapioca pearls coated in a flavorful brown sugar syrup. The homemade brown sugar boba adds an authentic touch to your milk tea or any iced drink, making it a fun and tasty DIY project.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup tapioca pearls
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2/3 cup strongly brewed black tea (see notes)
• Milk or any non-dairy milk, to serve

Directions

1. Cook the tapioca pearls according to the package instructions, usually boiling for about 20-30 minutes until they become soft and chewy.
2. Drain the cooked pearls and rinse briefly under warm water.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine the brown sugar and black tea. Heat gently, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture thickens slightly into a syrup.
4. Add the cooked tapioca pearls to the brown sugar syrup and stir to coat evenly. Let them soak for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavor.
5. To serve, add the brown sugar boba to a glass, pour in your milk or non-dairy milk, and stir. Enjoy with a wide straw.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings of boba pearls. Preparation and cooking time is approximately 40 minutes.

Variations

• Use jasmine or oolong tea instead of black tea for different flavor profiles.
• Add vanilla extract or cinnamon to the syrup for extra aroma.
• Serve with flavored milk teas like matcha or Thai tea.
• Sweeten the milk with honey or syrup for added sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cooked tapioca pearls in the brown sugar syrup at room temperature for up to 4 hours for best texture. Refrigeration is not recommended as pearls harden when cold. Reheat by soaking in warm water or syrup before serving.

FAQs

What type of tapioca pearls should I use?

Use small or large tapioca pearls labeled for bubble tea, available at Asian grocery stores or online.

How do I make the pearls soft and chewy?

Cook pearls in boiling water until they float and become translucent, then simmer as directed.

Can I use pre-cooked boba?

Yes, pre-cooked boba can be warmed in brown sugar syrup before serving.

What tea is best for the syrup?

Strong black tea like Assam or English Breakfast works well.

How sweet is the brown sugar syrup?

It’s rich and sweet but can be adjusted by adding more or less brown sugar.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes, use plant-based milk alternatives to keep it vegan.

How long do cooked pearls last?

Best consumed within 4 hours for optimal texture.

Can I freeze cooked boba?

Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture negatively.

How do I serve brown sugar boba?

Add to milk tea or iced milk drinks with a wide straw.

Can I make flavored syrup variations?

Yes, infuse syrup with ginger, cinnamon, or vanilla for unique flavors.

Conclusion

Easy Brown Sugar Boba is a delicious and simple way to elevate your homemade milk tea with chewy, sweet tapioca pearls coated in caramelized brown sugar syrup. Its easy preparation and rich flavor make it a perfect addition to your favorite drinks, bringing the bubble tea experience right into your kitchen.

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