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Iced oolong milk tea in a glass
Mary Johnson

Iced Oolong Milk Tea

A smooth, refreshing milk tea made with strongly brewed oolong tea, creamy milk, and honey syrup. This easy recipe makes 2 large servings and can be customized with plant-based milk, brown sugar syrup, or tapioca pearls.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 minutes
Total Time 14 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 tablespoons about 8 g loose-leaf oolong tea or 4 tea bags
  • 1½ cups 360 ml hot water, about 195°F (90°C)
  • 1 cup 240 ml whole milk or plant-based milk
  • 2 –4 tablespoons honey syrup to taste
  • 2 cups ice
  • Optional: ½ cup cooked tapioca pearls
  • Honey Syrup
  • ¼ cup honey
  • ¼ cup hot water

Equipment

  • Teapot or heatproof pitcher
  • Kettle
  • Tea strainer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Two tall glasses
  • Spoon for stirring

Method
 

  1. Brew the tea: Pour hot water over the oolong tea and steep for 3–4 minutes.
  2. Strain: Remove the tea leaves or tea bags.
  3. Cool: Let the tea cool for 20–30 minutes, or refrigerate until chilled.
  4. Sweeten: Stir honey syrup into the tea to taste.
  5. Prepare the glasses: Add tapioca pearls, if desired, and fill both glasses with ice.
  6. Add the tea: Divide the cooled tea between the glasses.
  7. Add the milk: Pour ½ cup of milk into each glass and stir well.
  8. Serve: Taste, adjust the sweetness, and enjoy immediate

Notes

  • Tea choice: Light oolong gives floral notes, milk oolong tastes naturally creamy, and roasted oolong provides a deeper, nuttier flavor.
  • Milk options: Whole milk, oat milk, soy milk, and coconut milk all work well.
  • Sweetness: Adjust the honey syrup to your preference or substitute brown sugar syrup.
  • Avoid bitterness: Steep for 3–4 minutes and avoid exceeding 5 minutes.
  • Prevent dilution: Cool the tea before pouring it over ice.
  • Storage: Refrigerate brewed tea in a sealed container for 2–3 days. Assembled drinks are best enjoyed fresh.
  • Boba option: Add freshly cooked tapioca pearls for bubble tea.
  • Preparation time: 10 minutes, plus 20–30 minutes cooling time.
  • Servings: 2 large drinks.