This Royal Milk Tea recipe delivers a rich, creamy cup of tea inspired by Japanese cafés. Unlike standard milk tea, royal milk tea is brewed directly in milk, creating a deeper flavor and velvety texture that feels both cozy and indulgent.
If you enjoy comforting warm drinks like this homemade hot coffee guide , you’ll love how simple and soothing this tea is to prepare.
Why You’ll Love It
- Extra creamy: Brewed directly in milk for a smooth finish.
- Simple ingredients: Just tea, milk, sugar, and water.
- Customizable: Adjust sweetness and strength easily.
- Café-style at home: No special equipment needed.
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup water
- 2 black tea bags (Assam or English breakfast work best)
- 1 to 2 tbsp sugar, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine the water and milk. Heat over medium until steaming but not boiling.
- Add the tea bags, reduce heat to low, and gently simmer for 3 to 5 minutes. The longer it simmers, the stronger the tea flavor.
- Remove from heat and discard the tea bags. Stir in sugar until dissolved.
- Taste and adjust sweetness. Add vanilla extract if using.
- Pour into mugs and serve hot, or let cool and serve over ice.
Tips & Variations
- Stronger tea: Use an extra tea bag or steep one minute longer.
- Dairy-free: Whole milk gives the best texture, but oat milk works well for a creamy alternative.
- Spiced version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom while simmering.
Substitutions
If you prefer less caffeine, you can swap black tea for decaf black tea. Avoid green tea for this recipe, as it turns bitter when simmered in milk.
Serving Suggestions
Royal milk tea pairs beautifully with light sweets and cozy treats. Try serving it alongside whipped shortbread cookies or these French salted butter cookies for an afternoon break.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover royal milk tea in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often. Avoid boiling to keep the milk smooth.
FAQs
What makes royal milk tea different?
Traditional milk tea adds milk after brewing tea in water. Royal milk tea brews the tea directly in milk, giving it a richer taste.
Can I serve it iced?
Yes. Let the tea cool completely, then pour over ice. It’s especially refreshing in warmer months.
More to Try
Conclusion
This Royal Milk Tea recipe proves that café-quality comfort drinks are easy to make at home. With just a few ingredients and a short simmer, you’ll have a creamy, soothing tea perfect for slow mornings or cozy evenings.
Print
Royal Milk Tea Recipe (Japanese-Style Creamy Milk Tea)
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy Japanese-style milk tea brewed directly in milk for a comforting, café-style experience at home.
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup water
- 2 black tea bags (Assam or English breakfast work best)
- 1 to 2 tbsp sugar, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine the water and milk. Heat over medium until steaming but not boiling.
- Add the tea bags, reduce heat to low, and gently simmer for 3 to 5 minutes. The longer it simmers, the stronger the tea flavor.
- Remove from heat and discard the tea bags. Stir in sugar until dissolved.
- Taste and adjust sweetness. Add vanilla extract if using.
- Pour into mugs and serve hot, or let cool and serve over ice.
Notes
Use whole milk for the best creamy texture. Try oat milk for a dairy-free version. Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for a spiced twist.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: royal milk tea, Japanese milk tea, creamy tea, stovetop milk tea, café-style tea