Easy Thai Iced Tea Recipe

Bring the vibrant flavors of Thailand into your kitchen with this Easy Thai Iced Tea recipe! Sweet, creamy, and beautifully spiced, this classic drink is a refreshing way to cool down while enjoying something a little exotic. Whether you’re sipping it with takeout or enjoying it on a hot day, this beverage is bound to become a favorite.

Ingredients

4 cups water
4 Thai black tea bags or 4 tablespoons loose Thai tea mix
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/4 cup evaporated milk (or whole milk for extra creaminess)
2–4 tablespoons sugar (optional, depending on sweetness preference)
Ice cubes
Star anise or crushed cardamom pods (optional, for a spiced version)

Instructions

Boil the Water: In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
Steep the Tea: Add the Thai tea bags or loose tea. Optionally, add a star anise or a pinch of crushed cardamom for extra spice. Remove from heat and steep for 5–10 minutes.
Strain the Tea: If using loose tea, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the leaves.
Sweeten: Stir in the sugar (if using) while the tea is still warm, followed by the sweetened condensed milk. Let the tea cool completely or chill in the fridge.
Serve: Fill tall glasses with ice. Pour in the cooled tea, then top each glass with a generous splash of evaporated milk.
Stir and Enjoy: Swirl the tea before drinking for that iconic orange-and-cream marbled effect.

Tips

Use Thai tea mix: For the most authentic flavor and color, use a Thai tea mix such as Pantai or Number One Brand.
Make it ahead: Brew the tea in advance and chill it in the fridge so it’s ready to pour over ice anytime.
Adjust the sweetness: Thai iced tea is traditionally quite sweet, but you can reduce or skip the sugar entirely and just use sweetened condensed milk.
Vegan version: Swap the sweetened condensed milk for sweetened coconut condensed milk and the evaporated milk for full-fat coconut milk or oat milk.

Variations and Substitutions

Spiced Thai Tea: Add whole spices like cinnamon sticks, star anise, or cardamom pods while steeping the tea.
Boba Thai Tea: Add cooked tapioca pearls for a bubble tea twist.
Thai Tea Latte: For a more coffee-shop style, froth the milk before topping the iced tea.
Caffeine-free: Use rooibos tea with Thai tea spices for a caffeine-free alternative.
No sweetened condensed milk? Combine sugar with evaporated milk or use a combo of whole milk and sugar to replicate the flavor.

FAQs

Q: What makes Thai iced tea orange?
A: The orange hue comes from food coloring added to Thai tea mixes. It’s traditional and safe, but you can find natural versions if you prefer.

Q: Can I make it without condensed milk?
A: Yes! You can sweeten with sugar or honey and use any milk of your choice. Coconut milk works well.

Q: Is Thai iced tea caffeinated?
A: Yes, Thai tea is made from strong black tea, so it does contain caffeine. For a caffeine-free option, try rooibos or herbal tea.

Q: How long does Thai iced tea last in the fridge?
A: The brewed tea (without milk) can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. Once mixed with milk, it’s best enjoyed within 2 days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with your favorite Thai dishes like Pad Thai, Thai Basil Chicken, or fresh spring rolls.
Pair it with spicy meals to balance the heat.
Pour it into mason jars for a fun presentation at parties or BBQs.
Garnish with a cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of crushed cardamom for an elegant touch.