Brown Sugar Boba Coffee Recipe

Brown Sugar Boba Coffee | Espresso
Yield 1
Author Chef Tu David Phu
Prep time
8 Min
Total time
8 Min

Brown Sugar Boba Coffee | Espresso

I'm familiar with boba, but have you ever tried brown sugar boba coffee? Combining the beloved brown sugar boba with an espresso shot is mind-bogglingly GOOD! The contrast of the chewy boba pearls with the rich espresso creates a beautiful textural experience. At the same time, the flavors intermingle to create a taste sensation that is both familiar and exciting for both boba enthusiasts and coffee lovers alike.
Cook modePrevent screen from turning off

Ingredients

Ingredients
Equipment

Instructions

Make the Espresso Syrup
  1. Add 2 espresso shots into a frothing cup. Then add 3 oz. of Tiger syrup.
  2. Use an Aero Latte to emulsify the espresso and the syrup.
  3. Set aside.
Make the Whipped Cream
  1. In a small cup, 1/4 cup of cream, and a pinch of kosher salt.
  2. Use an Aero Latte to whip the milk mixture until the ribbon stage. (see notes)
  3. Set aside in the refrigerator.
  4. The mixture can be re-whisk via Aero Latte if it starts to thin.
Make the Brown Sugar Bobba Coffee
  1. In a Highball glass, add 2 tbsp of Crystal Boba.
  2. Fill the glass with ice.
  3. Add 1/4 cup of whole milk to the glass.
  4. Then add the espresso-syrup mixture.
  5. Top the glass with the whipped cream.
  6. Garnish 1 tbsp of Crystal Boba. and lemon zest.
  7. Serve immediately.
  8. Stir vigorously before drinking.

Notes

Ribbon Stage - In baking, the ribbon stage refers to a texture developed when whisking a mixture to the point where it falls from the whisk in a 'ribbon-like' pattern that slowly dissolves back into the mixture.


Neapolitan Espresso

Similar to wine, coffee possesses a diverse range of characteristics. In the case of this recipe, I opted for a Neapolitan roast sourced from my local coffee roaster, Mr. Espresso. This particular roast boasts delightful notes of caramel, hazelnut, and dark chocolate, creating a remarkable harmony when combined with the flavors of chocolate and ube.


-About Mr. Espresso-

www.mrespresso.com

Mr. Espresso is an Oakland-based, family-owned, and operated Specialty Coffee Roaster that started in 1978. Mr. They specialize in coffee that is gently roasted as it was in Italy, over slow-burning, oak wood logs that are hand-selected, perfectly seasoned, and sustainably sourced. Skillfully adapting this Old World tradition to modern tastes, the Mr. Espresso family continues to roast classically inspired blends to bring you an espresso like no other.

boba, coffee, espresso, brown sugar, pearls, tea crystal, milk tea, milk foam
coffee, espresso
beverage, boba, coffee
Did you make this recipe?
Tag @cheftudavidphu on instagram and hashtag it #cheftu

Hi there!

I’m Tu David Phu—a chef, storyteller, and proud Oakland native with a deep love for the flavors and traditions of Vietnamese cuisine. This space reflects everything I hold close: the roots that shaped me, the flavors that define me, and the stories I’m passionate about sharing.

From my mom’s apartment garden in Oakland to collaborating with kitchens, farmers, craftsmen, producers, scientists, and thought leaders around the world, everything here is a celebration of connection. As a Vietnamese-American shaped by Third Culture, my work honors tradition while embracing the influences of the communities that surround and inspire us.

These experiences, flavors, and relationships are simple, soulful, and deeply personal. My hope is that they inspire you to cook with heart, explore with curiosity, and celebrate the vibrant intersections of culture and cuisine.

Explore My Work

Curious about what I’ve been up to? Dive into the stories, flavors, and passions that shape my journey:

  • GiGi's – My Vietnamese-inspired wine bar in San Francisco, where tradition meets innovation.

  • Bloodline – An Emmy-nominated PBS documentary sharing the rich cultural history and personal journey behind my food.

  • The Memory of Taste – My cookbook, co-authored with Soleil Ho, celebrates Vietnamese heritage and food's power to tell stories.

  • Food Journeys – From TEDx talks to culinary panels, I share stories that explore culture, community, and the connections we create through cuisine.