Quick answer

Brew Milk Oolong at 185°F (85°C) for 3 minutes using 1 teaspoon of loose leaf per 8 oz of water. This preserves its natural creamy, buttery flavor without bitterness.

Why Milk Oolong needs a gentler brew

Milk Oolong is a lightly oxidized Tie Guan Yin oolong from Anhui, China. Its signature creamy taste comes from the natural half-fermentation process, not added flavoring. High water temperature or over-steeping will destroy these delicate compounds and turn the tea bitter.

Unlike black or green teas, oolong requires a balance between extraction and gentleness. The leaves are rolled into tight balls that unfurl slowly, so steeping time matters as much as temperature.

Step-by-step brewing guide

  1. 1. Heat water to 185°F (85°C): Bring fresh, filtered water to a boil, then let it cool for about 30 seconds. Do not use boiling water—it will scorch the leaves and create a harsh taste. If you don't have a thermometer, bring water to a boil and let it sit for 30–45 seconds before pouring.
  2. 2. Measure 1 teaspoon of loose leaf per 8 oz cup: Use 1 heaping teaspoon (about 3 grams) of Milk Oolong for every 8 ounces of water. Adjust slightly for stronger or milder preference, but avoid overloading—the leaves expand significantly. A standard tea infuser or gaiwan works best to give the leaves room to unfurl.
  3. 3. Steep for 3 minutes: Pour the hot water over the leaves and set a timer for 3 minutes. Do not exceed 4 minutes or the tea will become astringent. Milk Oolong can be re-steeped 2–3 times; add 30 seconds to each subsequent steep. Taste after 2.5 minutes on the first steep if you prefer a lighter cup—oolong leaves vary in size and release flavor at slightly different rates.
  4. 4. Strain and enjoy immediately: Remove the leaves or pour the tea into a cup. Milk Oolong is best enjoyed plain—its natural creamy, buttery notes need no milk or sweetener. Serve hot or let it cool for iced tea. For cold brew, steep the same leaf-to-water ratio in the refrigerator for 8–12 hours.

Product spotlight

  • Milk Oolong - Wholesale: Milk Oolong is a Tie Guan Yin oolong from Anhui, China, half-fermented from the outside. This gentle oxidation creates the natural creamy and buttery taste without added ingredients, making proper brewing essential to preserve that flavor.

    Milk Oolong - Wholesale

    Milk Oolong - Wholesale