Few drinks are as instantly recognizable, or as satisfying, as Iced Thai Milk Tea. With its bold orange hue, creamy texture, and delicate balance of sweet and spiced flavors, it’s a staple in Thai restaurants and street markets. But this crowd-pleasing drink is surprisingly easy to make at home, and once you’ve tasted a homemade version, it might just ruin you for the store-bought kind.
The base of Thai milk tea is strong black tea, often infused with star anise or crushed cardamom pods, depending on the brand or region. What makes it stand out is the addition of sweetened condensed milk or a mix of evaporated milk and sugar. This gives the drink its signature richness and silky body. Served over ice, it becomes a refreshing indulgence that’s just as welcome on a sunny afternoon as it is with a plate of spicy noodles.
While traditional Thai tea mix is often used to get that distinct flavor and color, it’s also possible to recreate the experience using robust black tea and your own blend of spices. The goal is to strike that perfect balance between strong tea, creamy milk, and enough sweetness to make it feel like a treat.
Part of the charm of Iced Thai Milk Tea is how visually appealing it is. When you pour the milk over the brewed tea, the swirling contrast of dark and light creates a moment of drama before it settles into its iconic orange glow. It’s a small ritual that makes the drink feel a little more special.
Whether you’re sipping it on a patio, serving it at a summer brunch, or cooling down after a hot meal, Iced Thai Milk Tea brings a little joy to the everyday. It’s more than just a beverage, it’s a moment of comfort and calm in a glass, one that invites you to slow down and savor.
Ingredients
- 4 tsp Thai tea leaves
- 2 cups water boiling
- 4 tsp sugar
- 1/4 cup half and half
- Ice
Instructions
- In a teapot, steep the Thai tea leaves in boiling water for about 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea leaves and stir in the sugar until dissolved.
- Pour the tea into a glass filled with ice.
- Slowly pour the half and half over the tea to create a layered effect.
- Stir before drinking and enjoy!
This recipe is amazing! I love the flavors of Thai tea. Perfect for summer!
Yum! But I didn’t have half and half, used whole milk instead. Still good!
Glad it turned out good for you! Whole milk is a great substitute, I’m definitely gonna try that next time.
This is the best iced tea recipe ever! So refreshing!
Looks good, but isn’t Thai tea usually mixed with condensed milk? Just wondering.
Totally agree! I made this for a summer BBQ and everyone loved it!
Eaaasy to make, but you have to watch the steeping time or it gets bitter.
Uh, steeping too long? I don’t get it. My tea is always fine. Maybe you just did it wrong?
Thanks for the tip! I’ve made it before but ended up with a bitter taste. Will definitely pay more attention to the steeping time next time.
I wasn’t a fan. It was way too sweet for me, the sugar just overpowered everything else.
Idk, this seems too simple. Like, no condensed milk or anything? Still, it’s refreshing and I’m not mad. Could be better with more dairy.
Honestly it is pretty simple, but Thai milk tea doesn’t *always* use condensed milk. Half-and-half gives it that creamy vibe and the layering is nice.
Yesss! Half and half makes it rich. I’m not even kidding, this beats most places near me. Next time I’ll add condensed milk for extra sweetness.
I don’t get why people say this is the best tea ever. It’s just tea with milk?!
It’s more than just tea and milk! The Thai tea has a unique flavor that’s totally worth it! Give it another try!
I used 4 tsp of Thai tea leaves and the taste was too bitter for my liking. Might be the leaves I bought, but I’d recommend adjusting steep time or sugar.
Absolutely love this! Tastes just like the ones from the restaurant. 🥤