Hot cocoa bombs have been everywhere — on social media and often appearing around my house. My kids and I love them, but sometimes I want a warm drink that’s a little different.
Enter tea bombs.
Tea bombs, also called tea globes, are a playful twist on the cocoa bomb concept. They’re delicate because the shells are fragile, but when they come together they’re delightful. Melting the shell into a cup of hot water releases the tea and a touch of sweetness, making a comforting, slightly indulgent cup.
What are isomalt crystals?
Isomalt crystals are a sugar alcohol derived from beet sugar commonly used in candy making and sugar work. They behave like sugar in many ways but are easier to handle for clear, stable sugar shells because they crystallize differently and resist humidity better than plain sugar.
This recipe uses isomalt because it yields smooth, glass-like shells that hold up well. While regular granulated sugar can sometimes be used for similar projects, results vary and I haven’t tested substitutions here, so following the isomalt recommendation will give the most consistent outcome.
Are these homemade tea bombs vegan?
Yes. As long as the isomalt you purchase is labeled vegan and the tea you choose contains only plant-based ingredients, these tea bombs are vegan-friendly. If you add food coloring, check labels if vegan certification is important to you.
Loose leaf tea or tea bags: which to use?
Either works. Loose leaf tea creates a prettier presentation and a more artisanal cup, but if you prefer no leaves floating in your mug, place a tea bag inside the bottom half of the shell and seal as usual. If you use a tea bag, leave the string hanging over the edge so it’s easy to remove after the bomb melts.
What supplies do you need to make tea bombs or tea globes?
Supplies:
- Tea bomb molds (also suitable for hot cocoa bombs)
- Cupcake liners
- Isomalt crystals
- Gel food coloring (optional)
- Spoon
- Silicone spatula
- Small pot
- Loose leaf tea or tea bags
Homemade Tea Bombs
These tea bombs are a fun way to enjoy a hot cup of tea. They use isomalt crystals to create a sweet, dissolvable shell that melts into hot water, releasing your chosen tea and a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup isomalt crystals (amount may vary depending on mold size)
- 1–2 drops food coloring (optional)
- Loose leaf tea or tea bags
Instructions
- Add isomalt crystals to a small pot and heat over low to medium heat, stirring frequently with a silicone spatula.
- When the crystals begin to bubble, stir continuously until fully melted and clear.
- If using food coloring, stir it in now to tint the melted isomalt.
- Turn off the heat. Working carefully, spoon a small amount of melted isomalt into each mold cavity.
- Quickly coat the entire inside of each mold by rotating or tipping the mold so the isomalt spreads evenly. The isomalt tends to pool, so keep coating until the interior surface is covered and the isomalt starts to harden.
- Allow the shells to set. You can leave them on the counter for a few hours or chill them in the refrigerator for about an hour to speed up setting.
- Very gently remove the hardened shells from the molds. Pushing up on the bottom of the mold helps release a fragile shell. Patience and a light touch prevent cracks.
- Place your chosen tea (loose leaf or a small tea bag) into half of the shells. If using loose leaf, be mindful of the amount so it fits comfortably without bulging.
- Warm a plate in the microwave for about one minute until it’s hot to the touch. Set a plain shell on the warm plate briefly until its rim becomes tacky, then quickly press it onto a tea-filled shell to seal the globe. Work one at a time and be swift before the isomalt cools completely.
To enjoy a tea bomb, place it in a mug and pour hot water over it. Stir gently as the shell dissolves and the tea steeps. Adjust steeping time based on your tea type and strength preference. Sip and enjoy a comforting, slightly sweet cup of tea with a playful presentation.
Want more warm drink ideas?
If you like creative beverages, try experimenting with flavored teas, herbal blends, or adding small edible garnishes inside the shell, such as dried citrus peel or a pinch of cinnamon, for new flavor twists. Tea bombs also make charming homemade gifts when packaged in small boxes or tins.
