HOKKAIDO MILK TEA Recipe is a Creamy, Delicious Delight
This easy Hokkaido milk tea recipe is an ultra creamy and famous Japanese milk tea that is truly a delightful drink. You may wonder what is Hokkaido milk tea, and you’ll discover that the elevation of this drink comes from the milk itself and the detailed selectivity of how Hokkaido milk is procured. Explore everything you need to know about this popular Japanese drink and create yours for your next tea time!
What is Hokkaido Milk Tea?
Hokkaido Milk Tea is a variation of milk tea that originated in Japan, particularly from the northern island of Hokkaido. It is made with strong black tea (usually Assam or a blend of robust black teas) and specifically Hokkaido milk, which is prized for its creamy, slightly sweet taste.
The tea is sweetened with sugar, honey, or brown sugar syrup, giving it a luxuriously smooth and slightly caramelized flavor.
The star ingredient is Hokkaido milk, which has a higher fat content compared to regular milk. This makes the tea incredibly rich and creamy, setting it apart from other milk teas around the world.
Hokkaido milk makes famously indulgent ice cream, cheese, and various rich milk products in Japan.
You can serve this beverage hot or iced.
Where to Buy Hokkaido Milk
Although fresh Hokkaido milk is hard to find outside Japan, there are several ways to experience Hokkaido milk in the USA through various products and alternatives. Here are the types of Hokkaido milk and related products available in the USA:
1. Hokkaido Milk Powder
- Description: While fresh Hokkaido milk may not be available, Hokkaido milk powder is a popular alternative that can be purchased online or in specialty Asian grocery stores. This powder offers the same rich, creamy taste and can be reconstituted with water for use in beverages or cooking.
- Brands Available: Niseko, Hokuren, Yotsuba, and Snow Brand.
- Where to Buy: Asian markets, Amazon, and other online retailers like Weee!.
History of Hokkaido Milk Tea
The origins of Hokkaido Milk Tea are tied to the dairy farming industry of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island.
Hokkaido is renowned for its fertile land, ideal for raising cows and producing some of the finest dairy products in the country.
Because of the quality of the milk produced there, it soon became a staple ingredient in various dishes and drinks, including the famous Hokkaido Milk Tea.
This tea quickly gained popularity across Japan and internationally, particularly in bubble tea shops, where it’s often served with chewy tapioca pearls, though it can also be enjoyed on its own.
Ingredients
Wonder what is Hokkaido Milk Tea ingredients? It just takes a few and you’re off to having a relaxing beverage that is perfect for anytime of the day.
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon black tea leaves (Assam or any strong black tea)
- 1/2 cup Hokkaido milk powder – follow package instructions to reconstitute the milk powder (or use whole milk or half-n-half cream if Hokkaido milk is not available)
- 2 tablespoons Dark brown sugar – to taste
- 1/4 tsp Vanilla extract
- tiny pinch of salt
Optional Add-Ins
- Tapioca pearls (for bubble tea lovers)
- Extra Hokkaido Milk Cream topping that has been whipped
- Whipped cream (for an extra indulgent topping)
Equipment
- Saucepan: To heat the milk.
- Fine mesh strainer or tea infuser: To strain out the loose tea leaves.
- Tea kettle: For boiling water.
- Serving cups: Preferably clear glasses to showcase the rich color of the milk tea. Personally, I like to-go cups with a lid when I make this recipe.
- Boba Straws (optional)
Instructions
Prepare Ingredients
- If using, prepare your boba balls. Either have them homemade, buy them ready to use, or purchase raw boba balls and follow the package instructions. Set them aside.
- Brew strong tea. Place the tea leaves in a tea mesh strainer and over a bowl or large mug. Pour boiling water over the leaves and let them steep for ten minutes.
- Make the milk by gently heating the milk powder in water until dissolved. Do not boil.
Try Hokkaido Milk Tea ICED
- For iced drinks fill a tall cup with spoonfuls of boba, ice, then add the black tea. Add as much Hokkaido milk to your liking. The more milk, the less strong the beverage will be.
- Add a dash of vanilla and pinch of salt and gently mix.
- Take the brown sugar, add a little water, and heat in the microwave to dissolve the sugar. Add it to the milk tea to sweeten it.
- Top your iced beverage with more boba, whipped cream made from Hokkaido milk, and a dusting of cocoa.
Hokkaido Milk Tea HOT
- For hot drinks, add the black tea to a cup and heat the Hokkaido milk, vanilla, sugar, and pinch of salt and add it to the tea.
- Top your hot drink with whipped cream made from Hokkaido milk or serve plain.
Hokkaido Milk Tea vs. Regular Milk Tea
Regular milk tea uses a variety of teas (such as Earl Grey, Jasmine, or Ceylon) and standard milk. So what is a Hokkaido Milk Tea specifically? This version uses rich Hokkaido milk and strong black tea.
Hokkaido milk is distinctly a creamier, more indulgent texture and taste compared to regular milk tea, which might have a lighter consistency.
- Richness: Hokkaido Milk Tea is creamier due to the high-fat content of the milk and milk from dairy from Hokkaido .
- Flavor: Regular milk tea tends to be more tea-forward, while Hokkaido Milk Tea balances tea with a slightly sweet, almost vanilla note flavor.
- Sweetness: Hokkaido Milk Tea often incorporates brown sugar, which gives it a deeper, richer sweetness compared to white sugar used in some regular milk teas.
Caffeine Content in Hokkaido Milk Tea
Since Hokkaido Milk Tea is made with black tea, it does contain caffeine. On average, a cup of black tea contains around 40-70 mg of caffeine per serving, though the exact amount will vary depending on the tea used and how long it’s steeped.
This makes Hokkaido Milk Tea a great option if you’re looking for a little energy boost without the jitters that come from coffee.
However, if you’re sensitive to caffeine or looking to enjoy it in the evening, you can always opt for decaffeinated black tea.
Is Hokkaido Milk Tea Good for You?
While Hokkaido Milk Tea is delicious and offers certain nutritional benefits, like calcium and antioxidants from the tea, it’s important to keep in mind that it can also be high in sugar and calories, especially if you add toppings like whipped cream or tapioca pearls.
Here are some potential benefits:
- Antioxidants: Black tea is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage.
- Calcium: Hokkaido milk is a good source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
- Energy: The combination of caffeine from the tea and the natural sugars in the milk can provide a moderate energy boost.
However, moderation is key. If you’re concerned about sugar content, consider reducing the amount of sweetener or opting for a healthier alternative like stevia.
Add-Ins and Variations
Simplicity is what is Hokkaido Milk Tea is all about. However, it’s also a versatile drink that lends itself well to various add-ins and adaptations. Here are some exciting ways to customize your drink:
Flavor Variations
- Chocolate Hokkaido Milk Tea: Add cocoa powder or chocolate syrup to create a chocolatey twist. This combination adds richness and indulgence.
- Matcha Hokkaido Milk Tea: Substitute some or all of the black tea with matcha for a vibrant green tea version that’s packed with antioxidants.
- Fruit-Infused: Add fruit syrups or purees, like strawberry or mango, to introduce a refreshing fruit flavor that pairs well with the creamy tea.
Sweetener Alternatives
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Experiment with different types of sweeteners such as honey or maple syrup for a unique flavor profile.
- Flavored Simple Syrup: Create your own simple syrups using flavors like vanilla, lavender, or even chai spice to add complexity to your drink.
Toppings and Texture
- Tapioca Pearls or Pudding: Add chewy tapioca pearls, nata de coco, or grass jelly) for a fun texture that brings the bubble tea experience to many drink recipes.
- Whipped Cream: Top your Hokkaido Milk Tea with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Chia Seeds: For a nutritious boost, add chia seeds to the drink, which can provide added fiber and a unique texture.
Cold Variations
- Hokkaido Milk Tea Smoothie: Blend with ice and a banana for a creamy, refreshing smoothie.
- Hokkaido Milk Tea Float: Add a scoop of ice cream or sorbet to create a delightful float that’s both creamy and sweet.
Seasonal Variations
- Pumpkin Spice Hokkaido Milk Tea: Add pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice for a seasonal treat that’s perfect for autumn.
- Peppermint Hokkaido Milk Tea: Incorporate peppermint extract or crushed candy canes for a festive twist during the holidays.
With these add-ins and variations, you can experiment and create your perfect cup of Hokkaido Milk Tea tailored to your mood and taste preferences!
How to Serve
Hokkaido Milk Tea can be enjoyed hot or cold, depending on your preference. For a hot version, serve it freshly made with a bit of whipped cream for an indulgent touch.
If you prefer a chilled drink, pour the prepared tea over ice for a refreshing take. You can also make it more fun by adding the variations above.
Common Questions
Can I make this without Hokkaido milk?
Yes! While Hokkaido milk is ideal, you can substitute it with whole milk, half-and-half, or even a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk for a vegan drink recipe.
Is this recipe vegan?
Traditional Hokkaido Milk Tea is not vegan since it uses dairy milk. However, you can make a vegan milk tea version by using a plant-based milk alternative like coconut, almond, or oat milk (it won’t exude what is Hokkaido milk tea, but the drink will still be delish!)
What is the difference between Hokkaido Milk Tea and Okinawa Milk Tea?
The main difference is in the sweetener. Hokkaido Milk Tea uses brown sugar or regular sweeteners, while Okinawa Milk Tea traditionally uses kokuto sugar, a type of raw, unrefined brown sugar from Okinawa, giving it a distinct, very rich, caramelized, molasses-like flavor.
Can I use a different type of tea?
Yes! While black tea is the most traditional, you can experiment with other teas like oolong or green tea for a different flavor profile.
How do I make it less sweet?
You can adjust the sweetness by simply reducing the amount of sugar you add to the tea.
Hokkaido Milk Tea is the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and tea-forward flavors. With its rich Hokkaido milk and strong black tea base, it’s an indulgent twist on traditional milk tea. Give it a try, and bring a taste of Japan’s northern island right to your kitchen!
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon black tea leaves Assam or any strong black tea
- ½ cup Hokkaido milk powder follow package instructions to reconstitute the Hokkaido milk powder or use whole milk or half-n-half cream if Hokkaido milk is not available
- 2 tablespoons Dark brown sugar to taste
- ¼ tsp Vanilla extract
- tiny pinch of salt
Optional Add-Ins
- Boba pearls boba tapioca pearls can be bought or homemade; follow package instruction
- Extra Hokkaido Milk Cream topping that has been whipped
- Whipped cream for an extra indulgent topping
- Ice
Prepare Ingredients
-
If using, prepare your boba balls. Either have them homemade, buy them ready to use, or purchase raw boba balls and follow the package instructions. Set them aside.
-
Brew strong tea. Place the tea leaves in a tea mesh strainer and over a bowl or large mug. Pour boiling water over the leaves and let them steep for ten minutes.
-
Make Hokkaido Milk by gently heating the milk powder in water until dissolved. Do not boil.
Hokkaido Milk Tea ICED
-
For iced drinks fill a tall cup with spoonfuls of boba, ice, then add the black tea. Add as much Hokkaido milk to your liking. The more milk, the less strong the beverage will be.
1 tablespoon black tea leaves, ½ cup Hokkaido milk powder, Boba pearls, Ice
-
Add a dash of vanilla and pinch of salt and gently mix.
¼ tsp Vanilla extract, tiny pinch of salt
-
Take the brown sugar, add a little water, and heat in the microwave to dissolve the sugar. Add it to the milk tea to sweeten it.
2 tablespoons Dark brown sugar
-
Top your iced Hokkaido milk tea with more boba, whipped cream made from Hokkaido milk, and a dusting of cocoa.
Extra Hokkaido Milk Cream topping that has been whipped, Whipped cream
Hokkaido Milk Tea HOT
-
For hot drinks, add the black tea to a cup and heat the Hokkaido milk, vanilla, sugar, and pinch of salt and add it to the tea.
-
Top your hot Hokkaido milk tea with whipped cream made from Hokkaido milk or serve plain.
Nutrition is only an estimate and will vary upon methods used. RLF is not a nutritionist.
Nutrition Facts
Creamy Hokkaido Milk Tea Recipe
Amount per Serving
% Daily Value*
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
