Think of this recipe as the perfect warm sip of comfort that feels like it should be enjoyed before bed, but not actually something you’d drink before bed because it’s got a good amount of caffeine in it.
The effect is like this:
*relaxing stretch*
*jogging around the house*
It’s the perfect combination of exhaling in joy, and being extremely motivated.
And when you think about it, that’s pretty rocking.
The combination of milk, with a good amount of black tea and a kiss of sugar is out of this world! And this tea loves to be served both hot or cold, so it’s really up to you how you enjoy it.
So, grab a good book, and then get ready to go do some rollerblading, you’re on Starbucks Milk Tea time!

Starbucks milk tea (copycat) tips and substitutions:
You can make this tea ahead of time, and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like the tea warm rather than iced, just pour it into a pot and reheat on low until just steaming. You can also vary the types of tea! Earl Grey would be delicious and oolong would give it a little extra zing.
Two questions I always get asked on recipes like this:
“Could I use an alternate sweetener?”
Starbucks uses granulated sugar, but honey or agave would add a lovely bit of sweetness to this milk tea! (Or you can use any of the dozens of other sugars and sugar substitutes out there.)
Can I sub in a non-dairy milk?
Of course! There are tons of alternative milks to choose from. Some will alter the taste a little, of course, but trying new things is part of the fun!
Related recipes and resources:
- Starbucks caramel latte (copycat)
- Pumpkin cold brew
- Starbucks’ paleo food and drink options (the complete list)

Starbucks Milk Tea (Copycat Recipe)
This creamy drink is the perfect mix of comfort and zing! Bonus: It can be enjoyed warm or cold.
- Prep Time: 1 minute
- Cook Time: 5-6 minutes
- Total Time: 6-7 minutes
- Yield: 1 drink 1x
Ingredients
1 cup whole milk
2 teaspoons loose leaf black tea leaves
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Ice (optional)
Instructions
Pour the milk into a small pot.
Place the tea in a tea ball, or stir loose tea into the milk.
Bring to a light simmer over medium low heat and stir in the sugar.
If using loose tea, strain the tea leaves out.
If drinking warm, serve immediately.
If enjoying chilled, let the tea cool down for 10 minutes and pour over ice.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 192
- Sugar: 24.8g
- Sodium: 98mg
- Fat: 7.9g
- Saturated Fat: 4.6g
- Carbohydrates: 23.1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 7.9g
- Cholesterol: 24mg



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