Mango jelly in bubble tea is a chewy, sweet topping made from mango puree, often adding a fruity flavor and texture to the drink.
Mango jelly is a popular bubble tea topping that adds tropical flavor and chewy texture. Made from nata de coco (coconut gel) and mango flavoring, these bright orange cubes burst with sweetness in every sip. Unlike traditional boba pearls, mango jelly offers a lighter, fruit-forward alternative that pairs perfectly with tea bases.
What Exactly Is Mango Jelly?
Mango jelly consists of small, gelatinous cubes made primarily from nata de coco – a natural fiber derived from coconut water. Manufacturers combine this with:
- Mango flavoring
- Sweeteners (fructose and sugar)
- Acids for tartness (malic acid)
- Preservatives
- Food coloring (FD&C Yellow #5 & #6)
The result is a ready-to-use topping that requires no preparation. Some brands like Bossen offer fun star-shaped varieties for visual appeal. For those interested in other fruit-based drinks, check out our guide to the best lemon juice options.
Nutritional Profile
A typical 60g serving of mango jelly contains:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~50 |
| Sugar | 12g |
| Fiber | 1g |
How Mango Jelly Enhances Bubble Tea
Bubble tea shops use mango jelly to:
- Add tropical mango flavor without additional syrups
- Provide contrasting texture to chewy boba pearls
- Create visual appeal with bright orange cubes
- Offer a caffeine-free topping option
Popular pairings include jasmine green tea, black tea, or fruit teas. The jelly’s sweetness balances well with tart or bitter tea bases. For those who enjoy blended drinks, our best blender for frozen drinks can help recreate bubble tea flavors at home.
Storage and Handling
Unopened mango jelly lasts about 12 months when stored:
- In a cool, dry place
- Away from sunlight
- At room temperature
After opening, refrigerate and use within 2 weeks. Always check expiration dates as preservative levels vary by brand.
Making Mango Jelly Bubble Tea at Home
Follow this simple recipe to create mango jelly bubble tea:
- Brew 250mL of jasmine green tea and let cool
- Add 35mL mango syrup to the tea
- Shake with ice in a cocktail shaker
- Pour into a glass with 1 scoop mango jelly
- Add optional boba pearls or other toppings
For authentic texture, use commercial-grade mango jelly from suppliers like Bossen or Tea Zone.
Creative Variations
Experiment with these mango jelly combinations:
- Mango green tea with lychee jelly
- Mango slush with coconut jelly
- Mango milk tea with pudding
The versatility of mango jelly makes it a staple for bubble tea enthusiasts and home bartenders alike. Its sweet, chewy texture continues to gain popularity worldwide as bubble tea culture expands.
