I still remember the first time I tasted coconut milk tea—it was during a drizzly monsoon evening. I had just returned home soaked and cold, craving something warm and comforting. Regular black tea wasn’t going to cut it. As I scanned my kitchen shelves, my eyes landed on a can of coconut milk. That’s when inspiration struck. I brewed a strong pot of tea and stirred in the velvety coconut milk, adding a hint of brown sugar for balance. The result was pure magic—rich, creamy, and soothing, with a hint of island warmth that transported me straight to a beachy paradise.
Since then, coconut milk tea has become my go-to for cozy mornings, late-night reading sessions, and whenever I want to indulge without reaching for dessert. It’s a luxurious take on traditional milk tea, free of dairy but full of flavor and texture.
Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or simply looking for a tropical spin on your favorite drink, this coconut milk tea recipe will hit all the right notes.
Why People Love Coconut Milk Tea?
Coconut milk tea is loved globally for its exotic flavor, creamy texture, and dairy-free goodness. It’s a favorite among health-conscious tea lovers and bubble tea fans alike. Here’s why it’s worth trying:
- Dairy-Free Delight: Perfect for vegans and those with lactose intolerance.
- Exotic Flavor: The tropical essence of coconut elevates traditional tea.
- Customizable: Sweeten it, chill it, or even turn it into a bubble tea—it’s all up to you.
- Healthier Alternative: Compared to creamers and condensed milk, coconut milk offers healthy fats and fewer artificial ingredients.
Ingredients for Coconut Milk Tea Recipe
Here’s everything you need to make a cup (or two) of this deliciously creamy drink:
Basic Coconut Milk Tea
- 2 black tea bags (Assam, Ceylon, or Earl Grey work well)
- 1 cup hot water (near boiling, about 200°F or 93°C)
- 1/2 cup full-fat canned coconut milk (shake well before using)
- 1–2 teaspoons brown sugar or coconut sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Ingredient Variations & Additions
Want to spice things up or make it bubble tea-style? Try these variations:
- Tea Base Options: Use oolong, jasmine, or matcha instead of black tea.
- Sweetener Swaps: Use maple syrup, agave, honey, or monk fruit for different taste profiles.
- Spiced Coconut Tea: Add a pinch of cinnamon, cardamom, or nutmeg for a chai-like twist.
- Bubble Tea Version: Add 1/4 cup cooked tapioca pearls to the bottom of the cup before pouring the tea.
- Iced Version: Let the tea cool and serve over ice for a refreshing summer version.
- Creamier Texture: Blend in a tablespoon of coconut cream for a silkier finish.
- Herbal Option: Use rooibos or hibiscus tea for a caffeine-free version.
Instruction for Coconut Milk Tea Recipe
Follow these simple steps to create your coconut milk tea from scratch:
Step 1: Brew the Tea
In a heatproof mug or small teapot, steep the black tea bags in 1 cup of hot water for 4–5 minutes to allow the flavor to develop fully. The stronger the tea, the better it will balance with the richness of the coconut milk.
Step 2: Prepare the Coconut Milk
While the tea is steeping, shake your can of coconut milk thoroughly. Pour 1/2 cup into a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Heat gently (do not boil) until warm. This helps it blend better with the tea.
Step 3: Sweeten the Milk
Stir in your choice of sweetener—start with 1 teaspoon and taste. Add vanilla extract at this stage if you’re using it.
Step 4: Combine and Stir
Remove tea bags from the steeped tea. Slowly pour in the warm sweetened coconut milk, stirring gently to combine. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Pour into your favorite mug or a tall glass if serving over ice. Add tapioca pearls for a bubble tea vibe or sprinkle some cinnamon for a cozy finish.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Coconut Milk Tea
- Use canned full-fat coconut milk for the richest flavor. Carton coconut milk is too thin and watery for this recipe.
- Don’t skip warming the coconut milk—cold milk can cause the tea to curdle or separate.
- Steep the tea strong to avoid a diluted flavor when mixed with coconut milk.
- Experiment with tea types to find your preferred balance. Earl Grey offers floral citrus notes, while oolong gives a smooth earthy base.
- If using tapioca pearls, cook them fresh and soak them in a little brown sugar syrup for added depth.
Final Thoughts on Coconut Milk Tea Recipe
Coconut milk tea is more than just a beverage—it’s a comforting ritual and a delicious journey to the tropics in every sip. Whether served warm or chilled, with boba or plain, it offers an elegant alternative to your standard milk tea. Once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself coming back to it time and time again. It’s indulgent yet wholesome, exotic yet familiar.
Give it a try and let your taste buds travel—no passport needed.
Creamy Coconut Milk Tea Recipe: A Tropical Twist on a Classic Comfort Drink
This rich and aromatic Coconut Milk Tea blends the bold flavors of black tea with the smooth, tropical essence of full-fat coconut milk. Naturally dairy-free and easily customizable, it's perfect as a comforting hot beverage or a refreshing iced drink. Whether you prefer it plain or turned into bubble tea, this recipe offers a luscious twist on a traditional favorite.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
In a heatproof mug or small teapot, steep the black tea bags in 1 cup of hot water for 4–5 minutes to allow the flavor to develop fully. The stronger the tea, the better it will balance with the richness of the coconut milk.
-
While the tea is steeping, shake your can of coconut milk thoroughly. Pour 1/2 cup into a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Heat gently (do not boil) until warm. This helps it blend better with the tea.
-
Stir in your choice of sweetener—start with 1 teaspoon and taste. Add vanilla extract at this stage if you’re using it.
-
Remove tea bags from the steeped tea. Slowly pour in the warm sweetened coconut milk, stirring gently to combine. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
-
Pour into your favorite mug or a tall glass if serving over ice. Add tapioca pearls for a bubble tea vibe or sprinkle some cinnamon for a cozy finish.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 180kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 18g28%
- Saturated Fat 13g65%
- Sodium 15mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 8g3%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 6g
- Protein 1g2%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
