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!
So good! I added a bit of cinnamon for extra flavor. Thumbs up!
Iced tea should not have milk… but this is surprisingly tasty! Who knew?!
Not bad, but I think I messed up the boiling time. It was kinda bitter.
Meh. I expected more from this. My friend said it’s great, but I disagree.
Easy to follow. I’m not a cook, but I managed! Thanks!
It’s just iced tea with milk… What’s all the fuss about? Not worth my time.
I get what you’re saying, but it’s more about the flavors and experience, not just milk and tea! Give it a try, you might be surprised!
I tried making this and it turned out so bitter. Did I do something wrong?
Dude, I didn’t have Thai tea leaves so I just used regular tea. Still tasted good!
Ice tea?? LOL could be better but I reckon this will do.
I used to think iced tea was just plain, but this sounds really good! Gonna give it a try!
LOL, I don’t know about Thai tea, but I make my iced tea with just sugar and lemon. You don’t need all this fuss!
Really liked the creaminess. Never had anything like it before!
This is the best iced tea I’ve ever made! Super refreshing and perfect for hot days.
I’m glad you liked it! It really is a perfect drink for warm weather.
Looks pretty but I don’t really like milk in my tea.
Y’all, is that really how you make it? I thought they used condensed milk!
I thought so too! But this recipe looks good, I’m willing to give it a try.
I love Thai tea but this recipe was too sweet. Next time, I’ll use less sugar.
Delicious! Made it for my friends and they were all impressed. Will make again!
Wow, sounds amazing! I have to try this. Glad it turned out well for you!
Wow, this is soooo delicious! I could drink it every day!
I love it too! It’s so refreshing, especially on a hot day. I always add extra sugar though!
This tea is amazing! I never thought I could make this at home. Thanks for sharing!
I’m so glad you enjoyed it! This recipe is a real gem. Perfect for hot days!
So easy and tasty! I’ll def make this again. Thanks for sharing!
Wow, I can’t believe I made this! It was super easy!
That’s awesome! I love when recipes turn out great. Did you have it with any snacks?
5 stars! ✨ So easy to make and tastes just like my favorite Thai restaurant.
I added vanilla extract and it turned out so good. Highly recommend trying it!
Vanilla in Thai tea? That’s interesting! I might try it next time, thanks for the tip!
I don’t know what I did wrong, but mine turned out bitter. Too much tea? Help!
I don’t think that many tea leaves is the problem. Adding more sugar could help balance the bitterness.
You might have steeped it too long. 5 min can make it bitter, try 3-4 mins next time!
I don’t know, maybe I did something wrong? Mine came out kinda bitter.
I tried this recipe but the half and half just didn’t mix well for me. Any tips?
Too much sugar for my taste. I think I’ll skip that next time.