Earl grey milk tea is a combination of earl grey tea and classic Taiwanese bubble tea.
The blend has a floral and citrusy flavour from bergamot oil that mixes perfectly with milk. The result is a delicious, creamy, sweet drink that you can serve, either hot or cold.

We've created this recipe with as few ingredients and as few steps as possible.
You will only need three simple ingredients. It also contains much less sugar and is more fragrant than store-bought ones.
So, anyone can easily recreate this boba drink at home without the price tag and calories. Learn how to make earl grey milk tea (warm or iced) at home with our easy recipe.
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What is it made of?
Earl grey milk tea is made of earl grey tea, milk, and sugar, but you can also add some tapioca pearls. The rich caramel flavour of tapioca pearls and sugar syrup blends perfectly with the tea’s taste. It is also similar to Hong Kong milk tea but with less caffeine.
Tapioca pearls, also known as boba pearls, are optional. However, you can often add them to drinks for a chewy, fun texture. We recommend using quick-cook tapioca pearls, which only require 5 minutes of cooking time.

What does earl grey milk tea taste like?
Earl grey milk tea tastes like black tea but has added citrusy flavour from the bergamot orange. This beverage has rich, malty flavours and subtle, floral undertones. Together they perfectly balance out. Even though it resembles the classic black milk teas, it is lighter and more refreshing.
Try Thai tea if you prefer sweet and creamy beverages. It is similar to this type of drink, but it uses black tea and different spices to enhance its distinct flavour profile further.
How many calories are in our drink?
Earl grey milk tea contains 240 - 400 Kcal, depending on how much sugar syrup is used. There is approximately 240 Kcal in our recipe.
Earl grey milk tea ingredients
The ingredients for this recipe are earl grey tea, sugar, milk, and tapioca pearls (optional). You can use tea leaves or teabags depending on your preference or what you think is more convenient.

Our recipe will use whole milk due to its high fat content. It will provide a creamy and soft texture to your bubble tea, enhancing the overall drink.
However, you can also use plant-based milk such as almond, oat, and soy milk. These are suitable alternatives, especially for vegans and vegetarians who want to avoid any animal products.
We recommend using soy milk as the creaminess of soy milk pairs well with the fragrance of this beverage.
The simple syrup, made from regular light brown sugar, can also be optional. However, we highly recommended to make it if you're adding tapioca pearls. We recommend that you soak these boba pearls in simple or thick brown sugar syrup to add some sweetness to the chewy texture.
Alternatively, you can also use natural sweeteners such as agave syrup, maple syrup, or honey. These are healthy alternatives to sugar, especially for older adults who want to limit their sugar intake.
Using earl grey milk tea powder
To make this beverage with ease, you can use Earl grey milk tea powder. It is very convenient as there is no need for you to add any additional ingredients such as creamer or sugar.
So, skip the long lines at your local cafés and start making your favourite drink at home.

You can also opt for an earl grey milk tea kit for a ready-to-drink beverage that is quick and easy to prepare. Just add hot or cold water (whatever you prefer) to make this drink at your convenience.

Earl Grey Milk Tea Recipe (Warm or Iced)
Ingredients
For the Earl Grey tea base
- 4 tsps earl grey tea loose leaf or four teabags
- 2 cups water
- ½ cup whole milk
For the simple syrup
- ½ cup regular brown sugar 100 grams
- 3 ½ tbsps water
If you are using tapioca pearls
- ¾ cup tapioca pearls 100 grams
- 3 cups water
Instructions
- Earl Grey tea base: Boil the water to 208°F (98°C). Put the Earl Grey tea in a teapot, then pour the hot water on top. Cover and let it steep for not more than 5 minutes. Then, remove it from the pot, and let it cool down for at least 10 minutes.
- Simple syrup: Mix the brown sugar and water in a saucepan. Cook over medium-high heat until it’s bubbling. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Tapioca pearls (if using): Cook the tapioca pearls by following the instructions on the package. Once cooked, soak them in the simple syrup.
- Assemble: Put 1 to 2 tablespoons of tapioca pearls into a glass. You can add more or less simple syrup depending on your taste preference. Then, pour the hot earl grey tea, followed by the milk on top of it. Stir until your earl grey milk tea is well combined, and serve right away.
Notes
- We recommend using good quality earl grey teas for the best possible flavour.
- Remember to use quick-cook tapioca pearls to reduce your cooking time.
- It would be best to use the tapioca pearls immediately after cooking, as they stiffen as they cool and do not store well.
- To serve it hot, warm the milk in a saucepan or microwave before adding it.
- If you prefer a cold drink, fill it with some ice cubes.
Nutrition
Calories have been calculated using an online calculator. Nutritional information offered on Honest Food Talks is for general information purposes and are only rough estimations.
Follow Honest Food Talks on Instagram @honestfoodtalks for more delicious and refreshing boba recipes. If it’s your first time making this recipe, please share your experience with us through the comment section below.
Renee
This came out awesome!!!! I didn't put boba and I drank it cold but this was so awesome it is my new favorite way to drink tea now. Literally sooooooo good. I love it so much