Royal Milk Tea

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Royal Milk Tea is not your average cup of tea. It’s deeply infused with black tea, simmered gently in milk, and sweetened just to your taste. The result is a creamy, aromatic drink that feels indulgent yet is incredibly easy to prepare. You’ll love it because:

• It requires only four basic ingredients

• You can customize the sweetness and tea strength

• It’s delicious both hot and iced

• It’s faster to make than most specialty drinks

• It pairs wonderfully with desserts or snacks

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2–3 bags black tea (Assam, Darjeeling, or English Breakfast), or 2–3 tablespoons loose-leaf tea

• 1 cup water

• 1½ cups whole milk

• 1–2 teaspoons sugar, or more to taste

Directions

1. In a small saucepan, bring the water to a boil.

2. Add the black tea and reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.

3. Pour in the milk and keep the heat low. Watch carefully and remove the saucepan from the heat just before it starts to boil.

4. Remove the tea bags or strain the loose-leaf tea.

5. Serve the Royal Milk Tea hot or let it cool and pour over ice. Add sugar to taste.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 2 servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 6 minutes
Total time: 11 minutes

Variations

• Iced Royal Milk Tea: Let the tea cool after steeping, then pour over ice for a refreshing version.

• Flavored Version: Add a hint of vanilla extract, cinnamon, or cardamom for an aromatic twist.

• Vegan Alternative: Substitute dairy milk with oat milk or soy milk for a plant-based option.

• Sweeteners: Use honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute instead of white sugar.

• Tea Variety: Try Earl Grey for a citrusy profile or Chai for a spiced version.

Storage/Reheating

Royal Milk Tea is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. If serving cold, give it a good shake or stir before pouring.

FAQs

1. What is Royal Milk Tea?

Royal Milk Tea is a Japanese-style milk tea made with strong black tea, milk, and sugar. It has a rich, creamy flavor that sets it apart from standard milk tea.

2. Can I use any kind of tea?

You can, but traditional Royal Milk Tea is best made with strong black teas like Assam, Darjeeling, or English Breakfast for the boldest flavor.

3. Is Royal Milk Tea the same as bubble tea?

No, Royal Milk Tea does not typically contain tapioca pearls or other bubble tea toppings, though you can add them if desired.

4. Can I make this tea ahead of time?

Yes, you can make a batch and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently or serve cold over ice.

5. How can I make it sweeter?

Add more sugar to taste, or use other sweeteners like honey or condensed milk for extra richness.

6. Can I use non-dairy milk?

Yes, oat milk, soy milk, or almond milk can be used as dairy alternatives, though the creaminess may vary.

7. What’s the best way to prevent milk from boiling over?

Keep a close eye on the pan and remove it from heat just as small bubbles form around the edges of the milk.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just keep the water-to-milk and tea ratios the same and adjust to serve more people.

9. Why is my tea too weak or too strong?

Adjust the amount of tea used and the simmering time. More tea or longer simmering creates a stronger tea.

10. Is this tea caffeinated?

Yes, since it uses black tea, it does contain caffeine, though the amount depends on the type and quantity of tea used.

Conclusion

Royal Milk Tea is a simple yet luxurious drink that brings warmth and comfort with every sip. Whether you’re looking for a soothing morning drink or an afternoon pick-me-up, this Japanese classic is versatile, quick to make, and endlessly customizable. Try it once, and it might just become your new favorite tea-time ritual.