A boba smoothie is a fusion of a classic smoothie and a boba tea. It combines a fruit or milk-based smoothie with the iconic chewy boba pearls seen in bubble tea to create a bubble tea smoothie. Although often these smoothies actually do not include tea! When they do include tea but not much fruit, they are often called milk bubble tea.

Boba smoothies have become rather popular and Boba smoothie recipes are surprisingly easy to make.  If you’re eager to create your own boba smoothies this article provides a guide. Here, I will walk you through the key elements and steps to formulate your own boba smoothie blends.

I also provide a recipe at the end for you to use as a base template or starting point or if you didn’t want to come up with your own boba smoothie formulation.  You can learn more about boba tea in general here. 

Developing Boba Smoothie Recipes

1. Base Liquid Selection

The first step in crafting a perfect boba smoothie is selecting the right base. Typically a boba smoothie is milk based. You can use regular milk or a dairy-free alternative such as almond milk, oat milk, coconut mil, etc.

You can also use tea, water, or coconut water. But the milk is really what gives a boba smoothie it true milk tea characteristic. 

Adding Tea for a Milk Bubble Tea Smoothie

If you want to add tea, usually that is mixed with the milk. Using milky chia is often a neat option! To that end you could try something like this best chai tea recipe for the best of both worlds because it has both tea and milk. 

If you make a boba drink without adding fruit and just add milk, you have a traditional milk bubble tea.

2. Fruit Selection

The second most important component of you smoothie is your fruit selection. Common choices include strawberries, mangoes, peaches, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, watermelon, bananas, and kiwis, but the possibilities are endless. Experiment with unique combinations to find your favorite blend.

You can use fresh or frozen fruit. I like frozen because it leads toa  thicker, colder smoothie. If you use fresh fruit add ice cubes to your blender when making the smoothie. 

Green Boba Smoothies

You can also make a green Boba smoothie by using vegetables. Typically the mix will also include some fruit. For example, I like to use spinach with apple and banana, or I buy a green juice for my liquid, add fruit and dash of almond milk, then add the boba pearls. 

3. Boba Pearls

Boba pearls are the heart of a boba smoothie, so ensure you have quality tapioca pearls. Boba pearls are little chewy tapioca starch balls that are typically seen in bubble teas. Tapioca starch is made from cassava root. Usually black tapioca pearls are used, but they can come in different colors and flavors. You can even get fruit flavors  

Boba pearls have a chewy texture and they soak up the flavors around them. Most often, they are soaked in a sweet syrup for flavor and then added to a boba tea or boba tea smoothie to drinks for their chewy texture.

 You can find pre-made boba pearls in many stores,. I buy them at my Asian grocer or order them from Amazon (affiliate link) You can also find wide boba straws at that link.

You can also buy dry boba and cook them according to the package instructions.  Let them cool before adding them to your smoothie. If you use dry, you might also want to soak them a bit in something sweet like honey or maple syrup. 

4. Sweeteners​

The level of sweetness in your boba smoothie can make or break the experience. Strike a balance that suits your taste preferences. You can use natural sweeteners like honey, agave syrup, or maple syrup. Remember to taste as you go and adjust accordingly.

5. Supplements, Additions, and Protein

If you wish to add supplements or protein to your smoothie, feel free to add your favortie items. I like to add flax seeds to mine. Chia seeds are also popular as is protein powder. 

Flavor Enhancers are also popular.  Add a splash of vanilla extract, a pinch of cinnamon, or a dash of citrus zest to enhance the overall taste. Be cautious with these additions, as a little goes a long way.

Similarly, you can add various toppers or garnishes to elevate the visual appeal and taste of your boba smoothie. Whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, shredded coconut, or sliced fruits are just a few options to consider.

Making the Boba Smoothie

When ready, add your liquid, fruit, additions, and sweetener to your blender. If using the nutribullet make sure to use liquid to the fill line, but not over! 

Blend the smoothie. Place the boba in the bottom of the glass, pout the smoothie over the top, then add any toppings or garnishes, and enjoy!

Overall, be creative. Remember, there are no strict rules when it comes to boba smoothie recipes. The beauty of creating your blends is the freedom to get creative and explore various flavors and combinations. Don’t be afraid to try new ingredients or experiment with unusual pairings. Your imagination is your only limit.

Below is a recipe card for a basic mango boba smoothie. You could substitute any fruit in this for the mango and substitute any liquid etc. 

Want more mango smoothies? Check out the mango smoothies category!