The sun was setting, casting a warm hue over my kitchen as I pulled out my favorite tea leaves. I knew it was time to make Thai Iced Tea from Scratch. There’s something magical about this creamy concoction—the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, especially as a refreshing antidote to those balmy summer days. Not only is this homemade version a delightful treat, but it also gives you the freedom to customize it. Whether you prefer the traditional sweetened condensed milk or want to embrace a dairy-free alternative with coconut milk, each sip can reflect your taste. Plus, this recipe is quick to whip up, making it an easy crowd-pleaser. So, are you ready to pour yourself a glass of this vibrant, refreshing drink? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is homemade Thai Iced Tea special?

Creamy, comforting indulgence: This recipe brings the authentic taste of Thai Iced Tea straight to your kitchen, offering the warmth of spiced black tea combined with sweetened condensed milk or a creamy coconut milk alternative.

Customization galore: Tailor your drink to your preference—opt for a dairy-free version or adjust the sweetness to suit your palate.

Quick and easy: With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a delightful refreshment.

Versatile companion: Pair it with your favorite spicy Thai dishes or enjoy it solo—either way, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser you’ll want to share with friends and family!

Colorful presentation: The stunning ombre effect provides not only a feast for your taste buds but also for your eyes, making it the ideal drink for entertaining!

Whether you’re in the mood for a warm evening with a frothy drink or the perfect summer refreshment, this homemade version is sure to impress. Give it a try, and you’ll never reach for fast food options again!

Thai Iced Tea Ingredients

Get ready to whip up your own delicious Thai Iced Tea from Scratch!

For the Tea

Black Tea Bags – Provides the quintessential tea base and a caffeine kick; feel free to use loose leaf for a bolder flavor.
Water – The main liquid to brew the tea; ensure it’s fresh for the best taste.
Vanilla Extract – Optional but adds a delightful depth; embrace its sweetness for a fuller flavor.
Star Anise – Brings a unique aromatic spice; this component is essential for that authentic Thai taste.
Whole Cardamom – Delivers warmth and complexity; crush lightly to release more flavor.
Cinnamon Stick – Infuses a sweet-spicy note; perfect for mellowing the flavors in the tea.
Vanilla Bean – Elevates the vanilla flavor even further; substitute with extra extract if you’re short.
Ground Turmeric – Offers a natural orange tint and earthy depth; optional but beautiful for color enhancement.

For the Sweet Cream

Sugar – Sweetens the tea and balances the spices; coconut palm sugar is a fantastic healthy option.
Sweetened Condensed Milk – Gives that creamy sweetness that’s iconic in Thai Iced Tea; swap for coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Evaporated Milk or Whole Milk – Adds richness and creaminess; consider almond milk for a lighter, dairy-free option.

Now you’re all set to create a refreshing glass of homemade Thai Iced Tea from Scratch! Enjoy every sip of this delightful treat.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Thai Iced Tea from Scratch

Step 1: Brew the Tea
In a medium pot, combine black tea bags, 4 cups of water, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 star anise, 4 whole cardamom pods, and 1 cinnamon stick. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, allowing the water to gently bubble. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it steep for 3-5 minutes until the tea reaches a rich, dark color, releasing the aromatic spices.

Step 2: Strain the Tea
After brewing, carefully pour the tea through a fine mesh strainer into a large bowl or pitcher to remove the spices and tea bags. This will leave you with a clear, beautifully infused liquid. As you pour, admire the lovely amber hue of your homemade Thai tea, enticing and ready for the next step.

Step 3: Serve the Tea
Fill two tall glasses with ice, ensuring they’re generously packed to keep your drink chilled. Once your glasses are ready, pour the strained Thai tea over the ice, filling each glass about three-quarters full. Watch how the tea weaves around the ice, creating a refreshing tableau that promises delight in every sip.

Step 4: Prepare Sweetened Milk
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk and 2 tablespoons of evaporated milk or whole milk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This rich blend will add the signature sweetness and creaminess that complements the spices in your Thai iced tea. The texture should be velvety, perfect for your final steps.

Step 5: Combine & Garnish
Pour the luscious sweetened milk mixture over the iced tea in each glass, allowing it to swirl beautifully throughout. For an optional touch of freshness, garnish with a few mint leaves on top, adding a pop of color and aroma. Your homemade Thai Iced Tea from Scratch is now complete, visually stunning and ready to be enjoyed!

How to Store and Freeze Thai Iced Tea

Fridge: Store any leftover brewed Thai Iced Tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days to maintain its flavor and freshness.

Sweetened Milk: Keep the milk mixture separately in the fridge, where it will stay good for 4-5 days if using whole or evaporated milk. For a dairy-free alternative, store coconut milk the same way.

Freezer: If you want to preserve the brewed tea for longer, freeze it in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag, where they can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your tea again, simply thaw the cubes and mix them with a fresh batch of milk. Adjust sweetness as desired for that creamy taste you love!

Make Ahead Options

These Thai Iced Tea from Scratch options are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can brew the tea mixture and strain it up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its vibrant flavor. Additionally, mix the sweetened milk (either with sweetened condensed milk or coconut milk) and refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Just be sure to whisk it well before using to ensure a creamy consistency. When you’re ready to indulge, simply pour the brewed tea over ice, add the chilled sweetened milk mixture, and garnish with mint leaves. You’ll have a delicious, refreshing drink with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Creamy Thai Iced Tea from Scratch

Delight your senses as you create a full dining experience around this vibrant, refreshing drink.

Spicy Pad Thai: The bold flavors and vibrant spices of Pad Thai complement the sweetness of the tea, creating a perfect balance.
Crispy Spring Rolls: Crunchy and light, these rolls provide a delightful texture contrast, making each sip of tea even more enjoyable.
Green Papaya Salad: The zesty tang of this fresh salad enhances the creamy tea, offering a refreshing palate cleanse with every bite.
Satay Skewers: Juicy and marinated to perfection, these skewers enhance the drink’s sweetness and add delicious protein to the meal. Perfect for sharing!
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this creamy coconut milk dessert pairs perfectly with the Thai Iced Tea, echoing those blissful tropical flavors.
Grilled Fish with Herbs: Fresh herbs and grilled fish provide a light, aromatic contrast to the rich tea, keeping the meal refreshing and bright.

Thai Iced Tea Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these delicious variations and make this recipe truly your own!

Coconut Milk: Substitute sweetened condensed and evaporated milk with coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free delight.
Boba Boost: Add boba (tapioca pearls) at the bottom of your glass for a fun bubble tea twist that adds chewy texture to each sip.
Flavored Teas: Experiment with flavored teas like chai or vanilla for an exciting spin on classic Thai iced tea. The options are endless!
Citrus Twist: Squeeze in fresh lime juice before serving for a refreshing, zesty kick that cuts through the creaminess beautifully. You can even give it a try with a lovely Mediterranean Steak Bowl alongside for a lovely meal pairing.
Sweetener Options: Instead of granulated sugar, try honey, agave syrup, or coconut palm sugar for a more nuanced sweetness and a healthier touch.
Milky Alternatives: Use almond milk for a nutty flavor or oat milk if you’re after a creamier, dairy-free alternative that combines beautifully with the spices.
Extra Spice: Boost the spice level by adding a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to stir in a warm, spicy surprise. Pairing your iced tea with some delicious Flavor Packed Thai food can also elevate the whole experience!
Herbal Touch: Add a couple of fresh basil leaves to your iced tea for an aromatic herbal flavor that marries beautifully with the sweet and spiced notes.

Let your creativity flow and enjoy customizing this recipe however your heart desires!

Helpful Tricks for Thai Iced Tea

Tea Selection Matters: Choose quality black tea bags for the best flavor. Loose leaf tea can also enhance richness; avoid bitter varieties.
Don’t Rush the Brewing: Allow the tea to steep for the full 3-5 minutes to extract all those wonderful spices. Rushing can lead to a weak drink.
Taste and Adjust: Don’t hesitate to tweak the sweetness after mixing in the cream. Aim for that perfect balance typical of traditional Thai iced tea.
Ice It Right: Make sure to use plenty of ice when serving. This keeps your drink chilled and prevents dilution as the ice melts.
Experiment with Variations: Try adding boba or different milk alternatives for a fun twist. Coconut milk provides a delightful richness and a dairy-free option!
Presentation Counts: Serve in clear glasses to showcase the beautiful layers of tea and milk. A stunning visual effect enhances the drinking experience.

Thai Iced Tea from Scratch Recipe FAQs

What type of black tea should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your homemade Thai Iced Tea, choose high-quality black tea bags or loose leaf tea. Traditional Thai iced tea commonly uses strong Assam black tea, which delivers a rich, robust flavor. Avoid bitter varieties, as they can overpower the other lovely notes of your drink.

How should I store leftover Thai Iced Tea?
You can store any leftover brewed Thai Iced Tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. This keeps it fresh and delicious. Make sure to store the sweetened milk mixture separately, which stays good for 4-5 days if using whole or evaporated milk.

Can I freeze Thai Iced Tea?
Yes! Freezing is a great option if you want to preserve flavor and freshness. Pour the brewed tea into ice cube trays and freeze. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag or container, where they can last for up to 3 months. Thaw the cubes and mix them with freshly prepared milk for a quick treat!

What if I want to alter the sweetness of my Thai Iced Tea?
The sweetness of Thai iced tea is key to its delightful flavor! After combining the sweetened milk with the tea, taste and adjust the sugar according to your preference. If you find it too sweet, consider adding more tea or milk to balance it out. Enjoy experimenting to find your ideal blend!

Are there any dietary concerns I should consider?
If you’re preparing this for guests or family with dietary restrictions, worry not! You can easily make this Thai Iced Tea dairy-free by substituting sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk with canned coconut milk or almond milk. Always check for allergies, especially with ingredients like cardamom and star anise.

How can I enhance the color of my Thai Iced Tea?
For that stunning burnt orange hue often seen in commercial Thai iced tea, you can carefully increase the turmeric for a more natural color. Alternatively, if you’re open to it, adding a few drops of dye-free food coloring can achieve a similarly vibrant look. Enjoy the colorful presentation!