5 Delicious Recipes to Make Your Own Coconut Jelly Bubble Tea at Home

Coconut jelly bubble tea is transforming the way people enjoy their favorite chewy beverage by replacing traditional tapioca pearls with lighter, tropical nata de coco cubes. This refreshing alternative combines the beloved bubble tea experience with the natural sweetness and distinctive texture of fermented coconut jelly, creating drinks that are both indulgent and surprisingly light.

The global bubble tea craze shows no signs of slowing down, with shops popping up in London, Paris, Berlin, and beyond. While chewy tapioca pearls remain the most iconic topping, more people are embracing alternatives like coconut jelly bubble tea. Known for its springy bite and refreshing sweetness, coconut jelly (nata de coco) adds a tropical edge that makes bubble tea lighter and more versatile.

If you've ever wondered how to enjoy this chewy topping at home, this guide covers everything: what it is, why it's become so popular, and five easy recipes you can recreate in your kitchen.

What is Coconut Jelly Bubble Tea?

Coconut jelly bubble tea is a variation of the classic drink where nata de coco replaces or complements tapioca pearls. Made by fermenting coconut water, nata de coco is cut into small cubes that retain their chewiness even in liquid.

Key Features

• Texture: Chewy yet lighter than tapioca
• Flavor: Mildly sweet with a hint of coconut
• Versatility: Works in fruity, creamy, or even fizzy drinks

Unlike tapioca pearls, which are starch-based, coconut jelly is naturally lower in calories and doesn't go soggy quickly—making it a practical option for both cafés and homemade drinks.

To understand more about this fascinating ingredient that makes coconut jelly bubble tea so special, explore our comprehensive guide on what is nata de coco and its origins.

The Rise of Bubble Tea Culture

Bubble tea was first created in Taiwan in the 1980s and has since grown into a global beverage phenomenon. Its popularity in Europe surged in the past decade, with consumers drawn to the playful combination of tea, milk, and chewy toppings.

Coconut jelly became part of the bubble tea story because it provided an alternative texture for those who wanted something different from pearls. In Europe, where lighter, fruity flavors often appeal, bubble tea with coconut jelly fits perfectly.

Recipe 1: Classic Coconut Jelly Boba

Ingredients

• 1 cup strong black tea (cooled)
• ½ cup coconut jelly (drained)
• ½ cup milk or oat milk
• 2 tbsp syrup (brown sugar or honey)
• Ice cubes

Method

1. Brew black tea and let it cool
2. Stir in milk and syrup
3. Add coconut jelly to a glass with ice
4. Pour tea mixture over, stir, and enjoy

Tip: Always brew tea stronger than usual so the flavor stands out against milk and toppings.

Recipe 2: Tropical Coconut Mango Bubble Tea

Ingredients

• 1 cup mango juice
• ½ cup coconut jelly
• ½ cup chilled green tea
• Ice cubes

Method

1. Mix mango juice with green tea
2. Add coconut jelly and ice cubes to a tall glass
3. Pour juice mixture over and stir gently

Flavor Idea: Enhance your drink with premium mango juice for authentic tropical taste, or add fresh mango chunks and a squeeze of lime for extra brightness.

Recipe 3: Coconut Jelly and Passion Fruit Fusion

Ingredients

• 1 cup passion fruit juice
• ½ cup coconut jelly
• ½ cup sparkling water
• 1 tbsp honey (optional)
• Ice cubes

Method

1. Stir passion fruit juice with honey
2. Place coconut jelly and ice in a glass
3. Top with sparkling water for a fizzy finish

Garnish: Use passion fruit juice as your base for the most authentic flavor, then add mint sprigs or passion fruit seeds for café-style flair.

Recipe 4: Matcha Coconut Jelly Bubble Tea

Ingredients

• 1 tsp matcha powder
• ½ cup warm water
• ½ cup milk (or oat milk)
• ½ cup coconut jelly
• 2 tsp sugar or syrup
• Ice cubes

Method

1. Whisk matcha with warm water until smooth
2. Stir in milk and sweetener
3. Add coconut jelly to a glass with ice, then pour matcha mix over

Why Matcha? Rich in antioxidants, matcha pairs beautifully with chewy coconut jelly.

Recipe 5: Chocolate Coconut Jelly Delight

Ingredients

• 1 cup chocolate milk
• ½ cup coconut jelly
• 1 tbsp chocolate syrup
• Ice cubes
• Whipped cream (optional)

Method

1. Mix chocolate milk with syrup
2. Add coconut jelly and ice to a glass
3. Top with whipped cream for indulgence

Serving Suggestion: Sprinkle cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for a dessert-like finish.

Coconut Jelly vs Tapioca Pearls: A Lighter Choice

• Calories: Coconut jelly tends to be lower in calories than tapioca
• Texture: Jelly is firmer and less starchy
• Shelf Life: Holds up longer in drinks without turning mushy
• Dietary Needs: Naturally vegan and gluten-free

For those who want variety or a lighter option, coconut jelly in bubble tea is an excellent alternative. Learn more about the differences in our detailed comparison of coconut jelly boba vs traditional tapioca.

Seasonal Variations with Coconut Jelly

• Summer: Coconut jelly with lychee tea and fresh fruit cubes
• Autumn: Spiced chai with coconut jelly and cinnamon
• Winter: Hot cocoa topped with whipped cream and coconut jelly
• Spring: Jasmine tea with strawberry puree and coconut jelly

Benefits of Making Bubble Tea at Home

• Control sweetness – adjust syrups to taste
• Experiment with flavors – from tropical fruits to classic teas
• Save money – homemade drinks are cheaper than café options
• Customizable for diets – vegan, dairy-free, or low-sugar

For more creative ways to use coconut jelly beyond bubble tea, check out our collection of delicious nata de coco recipes including smoothies, parfaits, and desserts.

DIY Coconut Jelly Preparation

While most people prefer buying ready-made coconut jelly for convenience, adventurous home cooks can make it from scratch. The process involves fermenting coconut water with specific bacterial cultures over 1-2 weeks. For detailed step-by-step instructions, visit our guide on how to make homemade jelly coco.

The MR.Moco Advantage

Creating the perfect coconut jelly bubble tea at home requires quality ingredients. At MR.Moco, we bring authentic flavors from Vietnam to the world, offering premium nata de coco drinks and tropical juices that make homemade bubble tea as good as any café.

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FAQs

What is coconut jelly in bubble tea?

Coconut jelly (nata de coco) is a chewy, translucent topping made from fermented coconut water. It’s lower in calories than tapioca pearls and adds a mild, refreshing flavor.

Is coconut jelly good for you?

Yes! It’s low in calories (70-100 per 100g), fat-free, and high in fiber, supporting digestion. Rinse it to reduce added sugar from syrup.

What does coconut jelly taste like in boba?

Coconut jelly has a mild, sweet coconut flavor with a firm, chewy texture. It absorbs the taste of the drink, making it a light and refreshing topping.

Is coconut jelly in bubble tea healthy?

Yes, it’s a healthy topping option. It’s low in fat, cholesterol-free, and fiber-rich. For a healthier drink, use unsweetened coconut jelly and less syrup.

Does coconut jelly contain gelatin?

No, coconut jelly is made from fermented coconut water, so it’s 100% plant-based and vegan-friendly.

What are the benefits of coconut jelly?

Coconut jelly is low-calorie, fat-free, and contains fiber that aids digestion. It's also vegan and gluten-free.

Can I make coconut jelly bubble tea at home?

Yes! You can make coconut jelly bubble tea by mixing coconut jelly with tea, milk, or fruit juices. Visit our Nata de Coco recipe blog for detailed instructions.

How do I store coconut jelly?

Store coconut jelly in the refrigerator in its syrup for up to a week. If you prefer less sweetness, rinse it before use.

What are some popular flavors for coconut jelly bubble tea?

Popular flavors include mango, passion fruit, strawberry, and classic milk tea. Explore a range of tropical juices on our Flavors page.

Is coconut jelly vegan?

Yes, coconut jelly is entirely plant-based, made from fermented coconut water, and is perfect for vegan diets.

How is coconut jelly made?

Coconut jelly is made by fermenting coconut water with bacterial cultures, creating a chewy, gel-like consistency.

What’s the difference between coconut jelly and tapioca pearls?

Coconut jelly is lighter and chewier than tapioca pearls. It’s also lower in calories and holds up better in drinks.

Can I use coconut jelly in other desserts?

Yes! Coconut jelly works well in fruit salads, parfaits, or even as a topping for ice cream. Check out more creative ideas on our Nata de Coco Recipes.

How do I adjust sweetness in coconut jelly bubble tea?

You can adjust sweetness by adding less syrup or choosing unsweetened coconut jelly. Experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or agave.

Is coconut jelly safe for people with allergies?

Yes, coconut jelly is free from common allergens like gluten and dairy. However, check the packaging to confirm it's free from any added ingredients

Conclusion

Coconut jelly bubble tea is proof that bubble tea doesn't need to be all about tapioca pearls. With its tropical taste and chewy texture, it's a versatile topping that pairs beautifully with fruit teas, creamy matcha, or indulgent chocolate blends.

Making your own at home allows you to experiment with flavors, adjust sweetness, and create drinks that rival your favorite café. Whether you love tropical mango, tangy passion fruit, or classic milk tea, coconut jelly makes every sip more exciting.

For additional inspiration on using coconut milk and nata de coco together, explore our guide on creative coconut milk drinks with nata de coco that takes your beverage game to the next level.