
Taro milk tea is creamy, it’s sweet, and it’s become a fast favorite in bubble tea shops across the U.S. Soon, your business could be serving up this popular treat too! Here, we’ll walk you through the ins and outs of making taro milk tea using both taro root and taro powder, so you can create your own unique version of this delicious drink.
What is Taro Milk Tea?
Taro milk tea is made using either taro root or taro powder, married beautifully with milk or non-dairy creamer for those wanting a vegan-friendly option. And let’s not forget the optional tapioca pearls which add that delightful chew that bubble tea fans absolutely adore.
Some adventurous drink makers might toss in a tea base, but many U.S. recipes tend to keep things simple and skip the tea entirely. The result is a smooth, rich beverage that’s both soothing and satisfying.
And it’s not just about the flavor – although it’s a unique blend of sweet and nutty that’s sure to please – it’s also about the sensory experience it offers: a treat for the taste buds and a lavender-hued feast for the eyes, all in one.
What is Taro Milk Tea Made Of?
Let’s break down the basic components of this delightful drink:
Taro Root or Taro Powder
At the heart of every delicious taro milk tea lies our star ingredient: taro. This provides that unmistakable flavor and vibrant, eye-catching color that has everyone coming back for more. You’ve got options here – you can go with fresh taro root, which offers an authentic and rich taste, or you can choose the convenient taro powder, ideal for versatile and quick preparation. Either way, you’ve got a winner on your hands, satisfying your customers with every creamy sip.
Milk or Non-Dairy Creamer
Selecting the right milk is crucial. While traditional milk brings that classic creaminess, non-dairy creamer has become the top choice in many commercial settings, especially since it caters to lactose-intolerant customers and those seeking dairy-free alternatives. Our premium three-in-one taro powder products are thoughtfully designed with non-dairy creamer for a seamless option that blends convenience with broad appeal. With this inclusion, you can confidently serve a diverse customer base.
Tea Base (Optional)
Some recipes opt to add green or black tea to the mix, infusing the beverage with an additional layer of depth and complexity. While this practice is more of an afterthought in many U.S. bubble tea shops, it’s a great way to add a personal twist to your offering. Feel free to experiment and see if this addition strikes a chord with you. Whether you choose to include it or keep things straightforward, the choice is yours to make the tea truly your own.
Tapioca Pearls (Optional)
For many, the tapioca pearls are what make bubble tea, well, bubble tea. These delightful pearls add an enjoyable chewy texture that turns each sip into a fun experience. If you’re aiming to provide that classic bubble tea experience, the pearls are an absolute must. They offer a whimsical touch that complements the creamy drink beautifully, so your customers enjoy the full, indulgent experience that bubble tea is known for.
Taro Milk Tea Recipe: Two Methods

Now, onto the nitty-gritty! We’ll walk you through the process using both fresh taro root and taro powder. Both methods have their perks, so let’s get brewing!
Method 1: Using Taro Root
- Get your fresh taro root and give it a good peel. Chop it into small, manageable pieces.
- Pop the taro pieces into a pot of boiling water and cook until they’re soft. Once they’re tender, mash them into a smooth paste.
- In a blender, combine the taro paste with your milk or non-dairy creamer, a bit of sugar, and a tea base if you’re using one. Blend until it’s all mixed and smooth.
- Add a handful of ice and give it another blend or shake it well until everything is nice and frosty.
- Pour your taro milk tea into a glass and serve with optional tapioca pearls for that bubble tea twist.
Total Estimated Prep Time: 30–35 minutes
Method 2: Using Taro Powder
- Fill your shaker with some hot water.
- Add your taro-flavored powder and cane sugar into the hot water. Stir until it’s all dissolved and looking good.
- Toss in some ice, secure the lid, and give it a good shake until it’s chilled and smooth.
- Pour it into a glass and, if you’re keen, add those lovely tapioca pearls.
Total Estimated Prep Time: 2–5 minutes
Why Choose Taro Powder?
While fresh taro root is indeed a beaut, taro powder brings convenience and consistency to your bubble tea game and is a true gem in a busy cafe or bubble tea shop.
Let’s dive into why taro powder deserves a prime spot in your pantry:
Convenience
With taro powder, you can say goodbye to the hassle of peeling, cooking, and mashing fresh taro root. All you need to do is scoop, mix, and you’re ready to serve. This level of convenience is a real time-saver, especially during those busy rush hours when every second counts. Your staff will appreciate the simplicity, and your customers will love the quick service.
Consistency
One of the biggest challenges with fresh ingredients is maintaining a consistent flavor and texture. Taro powder takes the guesswork out of the equation. Every cup you serve will have that same smooth texture and rich, consistent flavor that your customers crave. This reliability helps in building a loyal customer base.
Versatility
Taro powder offers incredible versatility. Whether your customers prefer their drink to be subtly sweet or packed with flavor, you can easily adjust the sweetness and intensity to suit their tastes. This flexibility allows you to cater to a wider audience, so everyone can find something they love on your menu.
Storage
Unlike fresh taro root, which has a fairly limited shelf life, taro powder stays fresh for much longer, making it an ideal choice for bubble tea shops. This means fewer trips to the supplier and less waste, ultimately helping you to save on costs and manage your inventory more efficiently.
Ready to Brew the Best?
Serve up some top-notch taro milk tea to your customers! Check out our premium taro powder options and see the difference it can make. You can visit our website and explore our premium taro options, best suited for every milk tea business.