Why You’ll Love This Fig Vanilla Milk Tea
This fig milk tea is more than just a beverage; it’s an experience. The natural sweetness of the figs pairs beautifully with the fragrant vanilla, creating a sophisticated yet comforting flavor profile. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the health benefits of figs in a delicious new way. Plus, making your own homemade milk tea allows you to control the sweetness and ingredients, ensuring a perfect cup every time.
Ingredients for Fig Vanilla Milk Tea
Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious vanilla tea recipe!
- 2-3 ripe fresh figs, stemmed and quartered (plus more for garnish)
- 1.5 cups milk of choice (dairy, almond, oat, or soy milk work well – learn how to make homemade plant milk!)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (or 1/2 vanilla bean, split and scraped)
- 1-2 teaspoons sweetener of choice (honey, maple syrup, or sugar, adjust to taste)
- Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
- Ice cubes (optional, for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get brewing this delightful caffeine-free tea recipe!
- Prepare the Figs: In a small saucepan, combine the quartered figs with about 1/2 cup of your milk.
- Simmer and Infuse: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the figs soften and begin to break down, about 5-7 minutes. You can gently mash them with the back of a spoon.
- Add Vanilla and Sweetener: Stir in the vanilla extract (or vanilla bean seeds and pod), sweetener, and cinnamon (if using). Let it simmer for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Strain (Optional but Recommended): For a smoother milk tea, carefully strain the fig mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing gently on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
- Combine with Remaining Milk: In a separate pitcher or bowl, combine the strained fig-vanilla liquid with the remaining 1 cup of milk. Whisk well.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste your fig milk tea and adjust the sweetness or vanilla if needed.
- Serve: Serve chilled over ice for a refreshing treat, or gently warm it on the stovetop for a cozy beverage. Garnish with a fresh fig slice or a drizzle of vanilla syrup.
Pro Tips & Customization
Making it Your Own
- Tea Base: For a more traditional homemade milk tea experience, you can brew a weak cup of black or green tea (or even a floral tea like Honey Lavender Tea) and add the fig-vanilla mixture to it.
- Spices: Experiment with other warming spices like cardamom or a tiny pinch of nutmeg for a more complex flavor. If you love spice, you might also enjoy our Vanilla Chai Latte!
- Texture: For a richer texture, you can add a splash of cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top.
- Vegan Option: Ensure you use plant-based milk and sweetener for a fully vegan fig milk tea.
Storage
Store any leftover Fig Vanilla Milk Tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Give it a good shake or stir before serving.
Substitutions
Figs: If fresh figs are out of season, you can try using dried figs (rehydrated in warm water) or even a high-quality fig jam, though the flavor will be more concentrated.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is this fig milk tea caffeine-free?
Yes! As written, this recipe is naturally caffeine-free, making it a perfect choice for those sensitive to caffeine or for enjoying in the evening. If you add a tea base, be mindful of the tea type used.
Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the fig-vanilla infusion and store it separately from the milk. Combine them just before serving for the freshest flavor. The fully combined milk tea can be stored in the fridge for a couple of days.
Q3: What kind of figs are best?
Ripe, soft figs will yield the best flavor and easiest breakdown. Varieties like Black Mission or Kadota work wonderfully, but any ripe fig will do!
Approximate Nutrition Information
Please note: This is an approximation and can vary based on the type of milk, sweetener, and quantities used.
- Calories: 150-250 kcal
- Protein: 5-10g
- Fat: 7-15g
- Carbohydrates: 15-30g
- Fiber: 2-4g