4-Ingredient Taro Milk Tea

Taro Milk Tea is a creamy, subtly sweet beverage made with taro root or taro powder, milk, and tea. With its distinctive purple hue and nutty flavor, this popular drink is a favorite in bubble tea shops—but it’s easy to make at home with just a few ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Made with only four simple ingredients

• Rich, smooth, and satisfying flavor with a hint of vanilla and nuttiness

• Naturally gluten-free and easy to adapt for dairy-free diets

• Perfect served hot or cold

• No fancy equipment needed—quick and convenient to prepare

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Taro powder (or mashed cooked taro root)

• Milk (dairy or plant-based)

• Black tea or green tea (brewed and cooled)

• Sweetener of choice (sugar, honey, or condensed milk)

Directions

1. Brew the Tea: Steep your tea bag or loose tea in hot water and allow it to cool completely. Set aside.

2. Prepare Taro Base: If using taro powder, dissolve it in a few tablespoons of hot water until smooth. If using cooked taro, mash it until smooth or blend with a bit of milk for a creamy paste.

3. Combine Ingredients: In a shaker or glass, mix the brewed tea, taro base, milk, and sweetener. Stir or shake until well combined.

4. Serve: Pour over ice for a refreshing cold drink, or warm gently in a saucepan for a hot version. Optionally, add tapioca pearls if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 10–15 minutes

Variations

• Use purple sweet potato instead of taro for a similar texture and vibrant color

• Add cooked tapioca pearls for a traditional bubble tea experience

• Use coconut milk for a tropical twist

• Mix in vanilla extract or a pinch of salt for enhanced flavor

• Adjust sweetness to your liking by adding more or less sugar or syrup

Storage/Reheating

• Store any leftover milk tea in the refrigerator for up to 2 days

• Shake or stir well before serving, as ingredients may settle

• To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan—do not boil

• If using tapioca pearls, add them just before serving to maintain texture

FAQs

Can I use fresh taro instead of taro powder?

Yes, cook and mash the taro root until smooth. Blend with a bit of milk or tea for a smoother texture.

Is taro milk tea caffeinated?

Yes, if made with black or green tea. You can use caffeine-free tea or omit the tea for a caffeine-free version.

What does taro milk tea taste like?

It has a nutty, sweet, and slightly vanilla-like flavor. The taste is mellow and creamy, especially when made with milk.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk instead of dairy milk.

Do I need to strain the drink if using fresh taro?

Yes, for a smoother texture, blend and strain the mashed taro before combining with other ingredients.

Is it necessary to use sweetener?

No, sweetener is optional. You can adjust the sweetness or leave it out entirely based on your taste preference.

What type of tea works best?

Black tea gives a bold, traditional flavor, while green tea offers a lighter, fresher taste. Herbal teas can also be used.

Can I add boba pearls?

Yes, adding cooked tapioca pearls makes this into a classic bubble tea. Be sure to add them just before serving.

How can I make this ahead of time?

Mix all ingredients (except boba, if using) and refrigerate. Stir well before serving and add ice or pearls as needed.

Why is my drink not purple?

Natural taro root is light-colored. The signature purple hue often comes from added coloring in taro powder. You can add natural food coloring or use purple sweet potato for a richer color.

Conclusion

4-Ingredient Taro Milk Tea is a creamy, satisfying drink that’s both simple and customizable. Whether enjoyed hot or iced, this recipe is perfect for taro lovers and bubble tea enthusiasts alike. With just a few ingredients, you can recreate this popular beverage right at home.