Iced Thai Almond Milk Tea Recipe – A Nutty Twist!

To be completely honest, I wasn’t really a fan of tea until I met my boyfriend, who is now my fiancé. He has a deep passion for tea, while I’ve always been more of a coffeeholic—if there’s such a word! Heh!

There was also a time when milk tea was just becoming popular, and everyone seemed to be obsessed with it, but I couldn’t understand what all the fuss was about. For me, it was just too sweet, even though you can adjust the sugar level.

Not until recently, my fiancé and I decided to try making milk tea with boba pearls, and surprisingly, it turned out to be one of my new favorite go-to milk tea recipes!

This Thai Almond Milk Tea offers a harmonious blend of flavors, combining the rich and aromatic Thai tea mix with the creamy essence of almond milk. Enhanced by a touch of almond syrup and the deep sweetness of brown sugar, each sip delivers a unique experience. The addition of tapioca pearls brings a delightful texture that elevates this beverage into something truly special.

So, if you’re looking for a unique and refreshing twist on traditional bubble tea, this recipe is a must-try. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll be hooked!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

• Fun and Chewy Texture: The addition of tapioca pearls provides a delightful, chewy texture that enhances the overall drinking experience.
• Healthy Twist: Almond milk is a dairy-free, low-calorie alternative that adds a nutritious element to traditional bubble tea.
• Nutty Aroma: The almond syrup adds a fragrant, nutty aroma that makes each sip even more enjoyable.
• Allergen-Friendly: Using almond milk makes this recipe a great option for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer plant-based alternatives.
• Instagram-Worthy: The vibrant color of Thai tea and the contrast of the tapioca pearls make this drink visually appealing, and perfect for sharing on social media.

Ingredients

When selecting the Thai tea mix, it’s important to choose a quality brand known for its rich, aromatic flavor. Thai tea mix is traditionally made from strongly brewed black tea leaves, often infused with spices like star anise and tamarind. The depth of flavor in the tea is the backbone of this recipe, so finding a mix with a good balance of these spices will enhance the overall taste.

Almond milk is a key ingredient that provides a creamy, nutty flavor while also making the drink dairy-free. Opt for unsweetened almond milk if you want to control the sweetness level more precisely, or go for a lightly sweetened version if you prefer a richer taste.

The almond syrup is what really amplifies the nutty undertones, so choosing a high-quality syrup with natural almond flavoring is essential to give the drink a true almond essence.

Sweetened brown sugar adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness that complements the flavors of the tea and almond milk. It’s best to use a brown sugar that dissolves easily to ensure the drink has a smooth texture.

Tapioca pearls, if used, should be fresh and properly cooked to achieve that perfect chewy texture that makes bubble tea so enjoyable. They don’t add much flavor on their own but contribute a fun and satisfying texture to the drink. Be sure to cook them according to the package instructions to get that ideal consistency.

Lastly, ice cubes are optional but recommended if you enjoy a chilled drink. They help bring out the refreshing qualities of the almond milk bubble tea, especially on a warm day.

Ingredients for making Thai Almond Milk Tea:

• 3 tablespoons Thai tea mix (or 1 tablespoon of black tea)
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup almond milk
• 2 tablespoons almond syrup
• 2 tablespoons sweetened brown sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup cooked tapioca pearls (optional)
• Ice cubes (optional)

How To Make Thai Almond Milk Tea

Instructions for making Thai Almond Milk Tea:

1. Brew the Thai Tea:
   1. Boil 1 cup of water in a small pot.
   2. Add the Thai tea mix to the boiling water and stir.
   3. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
   4. Strain the tea to remove the tea leaves and allow the liquid to cool.
2. Prepare the Tapioca Pearls (if using):
   1. Cook the tapioca pearls according to the package instructions.
   2. Drain and rinse them under cold water.
   3. Set aside.
3. Sweeten the Tea:
   1. While the tea is still warm, stir in the sweetened brown sugar until fully dissolved.
   2. Let the tea cool to room temperature or chill in the refrigerator.
4. Mix the Drink:
   1. In a glass, combine the cooled tea, almond milk, and almond syrup.
   2. Stir well to mix the ingredients.
5. Add Tapioca Pearls and Ice:
   1. If using tapioca pearls, add them to the bottom of your glass.
   2. Add ice cubes.
6. Serve:
   1. Give the drink a final stir and enjoy your Almond Milk Bubble Tea!

Recommended Toppings for Thai Milk Tea

For Thai milk tea, a variety of toppings can enhance the flavor and texture. So after you first try it with or without boba pearls, feel free to customize your drink with additional toppings!

Here are some recommended toppings:

1. Tapioca Pearls (Boba): The classic choice, offering a chewy texture that pairs well with the rich flavor of Thai milk tea.
2. Grass Jelly: A slightly bitter and herbal jelly that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the tea.
3. Aloe Vera Cubes: Light and refreshing, aloe vera adds a subtle sweetness and a different texture to the drink.
4. Pudding (Egg Custard): Creamy and smooth, pudding adds a soft texture and complements the tea’s creaminess.
5. Red Bean Paste: Adds a sweet, earthy flavor and a bit of texture, perfect for those who enjoy a more traditional topping.
6. Coconut Jelly: This topping offers a tropical twist, adding a chewy texture with a hint of coconut flavor.
7. Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top can add a luxurious, creamy finish to the tea.
8. Crystal Boba: These pearls are typically softer and more delicate, made from agar or other gels, and they add a light, chewy texture.
9. Popping Boba: Filled with fruit juice, these pearls burst with flavor, adding a fun, fruity element to the drink.
10. Chia Seeds: For a healthier twist, chia seeds add a subtle crunch and are a great source of fiber.

Recommendations & Alternatives

In addition to different toppings, here are few more variations that you can try:

• Experiment with different types of milk like oat milk or coconut milk for a unique flavor twist.
• For a stronger tea flavor, steep the Thai tea mix for an extra 2-3 minutes.
• Add a spoonful of almond butter to the drink for an extra creamy and decadent texture.
• Create layered effects by pouring the almond syrup into the glass first, followed by the tea and then the almond milk, allowing the ingredients to slowly mix as you drink.
• Use flavored tapioca pearls, like honey or matcha, to add an extra dimension of taste that complements the almond and tea flavors.