To make wintermelon milk tea, blend wintermelon syrup with brewed tea, add milk or cream, and serve chilled or hot for a refreshing drink.
Wintermelon milk tea is a refreshing Taiwanese drink that combines the subtle sweetness of wintermelon with creamy milk and tea. This guide will teach you how to make it from scratch with authentic flavors.
What Is Wintermelon Milk Tea?
Wintermelon milk tea (冬瓜奶茶) is a popular bubble tea variation originating from Taiwan. It features wintermelon syrup mixed with milk and tea, often served with chewy tapioca pearls. The drink has a light, refreshing taste perfect for hot weather.
Key Characteristics:
- Subtle, grassy sweetness from wintermelon
- Creamy texture from milk or creamer
- Optional tea base (oolong or jasmine work best)
- Often served with boba pearls
Ingredients You’ll Need
For Wintermelon Syrup:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fresh wintermelon (ash gourd) | 2 lbs |
| Rock sugar or white sugar | 1 cup |
| Water | 4 cups |
For The Milk Tea:
- 2 cups brewed tea (oolong, jasmine, or green tea)
- 1/2 cup wintermelon syrup
- 1/2 cup milk or non-dairy creamer
- Ice cubes
- Cooked boba pearls (optional)
Step-by-Step Preparation
Making Wintermelon Syrup
- Peel and remove seeds from wintermelon
- Cut into 1-inch cubes
- Combine with water and sugar in a pot
- Simmer for 45 minutes until melon is translucent
- Strain and reserve the syrup
Assembling The Drink
- Brew your tea and let it cool
- Add wintermelon syrup to a glass
- Pour in chilled tea
- Add milk or creamer
- Top with ice and shake well
- Add boba pearls if desired
Expert Tips For Perfect Wintermelon Milk Tea
Choosing The Right Wintermelon
Look for wintermelon with:
- Firm, unblemished skin
- Heavy weight for its size
- Matte white powdery coating (natural protection)
Tea Selection
While some shops skip tea entirely, adding it creates depth. The best options are:
- Jasmine tea – floral notes complement wintermelon
- Oolong tea – toasty flavor balances sweetness
- Green tea – provides clean, fresh background
Sweetness Adjustment
Wintermelon syrup is quite sweet. For a healthier version:
- Reduce syrup amount by 25%
- Use sugar alternatives like monk fruit
- Add a pinch of salt to enhance natural sweetness
Variations To Try
Wintermelon Bubble Tea
Add cooked tapioca pearls for the classic boba experience. The chewy texture contrasts beautifully with the smooth drink.
Dairy-Free Version
Substitute milk with:
- Oat milk (creamiest alternative)
- Almond milk (lightest option)
- Coconut milk (tropical twist)
Sparkling Wintermelon Tea
Replace some tea with sparkling water for a fizzy variation. Perfect for summer gatherings.
Why Wintermelon Milk Tea Stands Out
Unlike other milk teas, wintermelon offers:
- Natural refreshing quality – no need for excessive ice
- Subtle sweetness that isn’t overpowering
- Health benefits from wintermelon’s nutrients
- Versatility in flavor pairings
According to Sugaryums, wintermelon contains compounds that may help regulate blood sugar levels, though the syrup’s sugar content should be considered.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Wintermelon Syrup Storage
- Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks
- Freeze in ice cube trays for portion control
- Can be canned for long-term storage
Pre-Mixed Tea Base
Combine tea and syrup (without milk) and store in the fridge for quick assembly. Add milk and ice when ready to serve.
Equipment Recommendations
For best results, use:
- A high-powered blender for smooth syrup
- Fine mesh strainer for clear syrup
- Cocktail shaker for proper mixing
- Bubble tea straws if adding boba
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Too Sweet
Solutions:
- Use less syrup
- Increase tea concentration
- Add squeeze of lemon
Not Enough Wintermelon Flavor
Ensure you:
- Use fresh, ripe wintermelon
- Simmer syrup long enough
- Reduce puree properly before straining
Separation Issues
If ingredients separate:
- Shake vigorously before serving
- Use homogenized milk
- Consider adding a small amount of xanthan gum
