There’s something endlessly satisfying about bubble tea—those chewy pearls, sweet bursts of flavor, and creamy textures make it a treat that’s hard to resist. But if you’re plant-based or dairy-free, finding the perfect vegan bubble tea recipe can be tricky. That’s why this Vegan Mango Bubble Tea with Popping Pearls and Mint is a game changer. It’s tropical, refreshing, and 100% dairy-free with a bouncy blend of textures from juicy mango, popping pearls, and fresh mint. Whether you’re a girl dinner aficionado or a bubble tea devotee looking to DIY your fix, this drink hits all the right notes—fun, fruity, and fabulously vegan.
Vegan Mango Bubble Tea with Popping Pearls and Mint
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 5 minutes mins
Total Time 20 minutes mins
Course Beverage
Cuisine Taiwanese
Blender For blending the mango base until silky smooth.
Fine mesh strainer (optional) If you prefer a smoother texture.
Tea infuser or teapot To brew jasmine tea.
Tall glasses Ideal for layering and presentation.
Reusable boba straws A must for slurping up those popping pearls.
Measuring cups and spoons Precision matters, especially when sweetening to taste.
For the Mango Tea Base
- 1 ripe mango peeled and chopped
- 1 cup brewed jasmine tea cooled to room temperature
- ½ cup light coconut milk or oat milk for a nut-free option
- 2 teaspoons agave syrup adjust to taste
- Juice of ½ lime
- 4-5 fresh mint leaves
For the Pearls and Toppings
- ½ cup mango popping pearls store-bought
- Ice cubes as needed
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Brew the Tea
Start by brewing 1 cup of jasmine tea. Let it steep for about 3–5 minutes, then remove the tea bag or leaves. Allow it to cool completely. For quicker cooling, place it in the fridge or pop it over some ice.
Prepare the Mango Base
In your blender, combine the chopped mango, cooled jasmine tea, coconut milk, agave syrup, lime juice, and mint leaves. Blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth. Give it a taste and adjust the sweetness or lime juice if needed.
Assemble the Drink
Take your tall glasses and spoon in ¼ cup of mango popping pearls into the bottom of each one. Add ice cubes on top of the pearls.
Pour and Garnish
Pour the mango mixture over the ice and pearls. Give it a gentle stir, then garnish with a few mint leaves. Pop in a wide boba straw and serve immediately.
This is the perfect example of how to make vegan bubble tea that’s vibrant, flavorful, and cruelty-free. It’s a fruity take on a boba smoothie and a great starter if you’re just getting into diy bubble tea.
Pairings
This tropical vegan boba tea pairs beautifully with light, summery foods that don’t overwhelm the palate. Here are a few suggestions:
- Avocado toast with chili flakes and lemon: The creamy avocado and spice contrast the sweet tang of the mango.
- Cucumber and tofu summer rolls: These fresh bites complement the cooling mint in the tea.
- Coconut mochi: A chewy, sweet treat that echoes the tropical vibe.
- Pineapple fried rice: If you’re turning this into a girl dinner, this savory-sweet combo works surprisingly well.
- Mango chia pudding: Double down on mango for a sunshine-packed brunch or snack.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of tea for the base?
Absolutely! Jasmine tea offers a floral lightness, but green tea, white tea, or even herbal teas like hibiscus work beautifully. This is one of those bubble tea flavors that’s highly customizable.
2. Are popping pearls vegan?
Most store-bought popping pearls are vegan, but always check the label for gelatin or animal-based colorants. If you want full control, search for a popping boba recipe to make them at home using fruit juice and agar.
3. Can I use frozen mango?
Yes! Frozen mango works well—just let it thaw slightly before blending. It also helps chill the drink, meaning you can skip some of the ice.
4. What kind of milk alternatives work best?
Coconut milk adds a rich tropical creaminess, but oat milk, almond milk, or even soy milk are excellent. This drink is an ideal dairy free boba tea that still delivers on taste and texture.
5. What’s the difference between this and a traditional brown sugar boba recipe?
Traditional brown sugar boba uses tapioca pearls coated in caramelized brown sugar syrup, giving a smoky sweetness. This recipe leans fruity and light, more like a boba fruit tea or boba smoothie. Both are great, but this one’s perfect for hot days when you want something refreshing.
