Thai Iced Tea has slowly become one of those drinks people instantly recognise, even outside Thailand. With its creamy texture, bold tea flavour and eye-catching orange colour, the drink has found fans across cafés, restaurants and street food markets around the world. Traditionally served cold with milk and plenty of ice, Thai Iced Tea is often enjoyed as a refreshing escape from the heat. What makes it stand out is the balance of strong brewed tea and sweetness, creating a flavour that feels both comforting and indulgent at the same time. Its growing popularity also reflects the rising global love for Asian beverages that bring together tradition, flavour and a unique cultural touch in every sip.
Thai Iced Tea: Key ingredients for the creamy café-style drink
Thai Iced Tea is a traditional Thai drink believed to have gained popularity during the 20th century, especially through Thailand’s vibrant street food culture. Known for its creamy texture, bold tea flavour and signature orange colour, the drink is now enjoyed in cafés and restaurants across the world.
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 2 tbsp Thai tea mix or strong black tea
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp condensed milk
- ¼ cup evaporated milk or whole milk
- Ice cubes as required
- Star anise or crushed cardamom (optional, for extra flavour)
Simple and refreshing Thai Iced Tea recipe
- Pour water into a saucepan and bring it to a gentle boil. Add the Thai tea mix or black tea, along with star anise or cardamom if you are using it. Let the tea simmer for a few minutes so the flavours become rich and deep.
- Strain the tea into a jug while it is still hot. Stir in the sugar and condensed milk until everything blends smoothly. Allow the tea to cool slightly before serving.
- Fill serving glasses with plenty of ice cubes. Pour the prepared tea over the ice and top it with evaporated milk or whole milk for that creamy café-style finish.
- Give it a light stir before drinking and serve immediately while cold and refreshing.
Important tips to make the perfect Thai Iced Tea
- Brew the tea slightly stronger than usual, as the ice and milk will naturally mellow the flavour.
- If you want a more authentic café-style taste, use Thai tea mix instead of regular black tea.
- Allow the tea to cool a little before pouring it over ice to prevent it from becoming watery too quickly.
- Adjust the sweetness according to your preference, as traditional Thai Iced Tea is usually quite sweet and creamy.
- For a richer texture, use evaporated milk along with condensed milk instead of plain milk alone.
- Serve the drink immediately after preparing it so it stays chilled and refreshing.
- Adding spices such as star anise or cardamom gives the tea a deeper aroma and a more traditional flavour.
