How to Make Easy Thai Iced Tea (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Boil the Water
In a small pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat.
Step 2: Steep the Tea
Add 2 tablespoons of Thai tea mix to the hot water. Stir, then let steep for 5–10 minutes to extract all the flavor and color. The longer the steep, the stronger and darker your tea will be.
Step 3: Strain the Tea
Using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, strain the tea into a heat-safe container or large measuring cup. This removes the tea leaves and any spice sediment.
Step 4: Sweeten It
While the tea is still warm, stir in 2–3 tablespoons of sugar (or more, if you prefer a sweeter tea). Mix until fully dissolved.
Step 5: Cool It Down
Let the sweet tea come to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill. You can also pour it over a glass full of ice if you’re in a hurry.
Step 6: Add Condensed Milk
Pour the chilled tea over a tall glass filled with ice. Then, add 1 tablespoon of sweetened condensed milk per glass. Stir it in slightly for that rich, creamy sweetness.
Step 7: Top with Evaporated Milk or Half-and-Half
To finish, pour a splash of evaporated milk or half-and-half on top. This creates the iconic creamy swirl and adds a final velvety layer to the drink.
Pro Tips for Thai Tea Success
- Use a Thai tea mix for authentic flavor. You can find these at Asian grocery stores or online.
- Brew strong. The tea should be robust enough to hold up to ice and milk without becoming diluted.
- Adjust sweetness to your taste. Thai tea is traditionally quite sweet, but you can cut back on the sugar or use alternatives like honey or stevia.
- Use full-fat dairy or coconut milk for the creamiest finish.
- Make a big batch! Brew extra tea and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just add milk and ice when ready to serve.
Fun Variations to Try
Thai iced tea is a versatile drink that can be adapted to suit a range of tastes and dietary needs.
1. Vegan Thai Iced Tea
Replace the sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk with:
- Coconut condensed milk or sweetened oat milk
- Coconut cream for topping
This version has a slightly tropical twist and is 100% dairy-free.
2. Thai Iced Tea Float
Add a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream on top of your Thai tea for a dessert-style drink. The ice cream melts into the tea, making it creamy and indulgent.
3. Spiced Chai Thai Iced Tea
Add extra spice to your brew by simmering the tea with:
- A few whole cloves
- Cinnamon sticks
- Fresh ginger slices
It’s like Thai tea meets masala chai — warm spices, cool drink.
4. Thai Iced Tea Latte
Instead of serving it cold, enjoy it warm! Brew and sweeten the tea as usual, then add warm frothed milk or a milk alternative for a cozy twist on the classic.
5. Thai Iced Tea Cocktail
Yes, you can spike it! Mix your Thai tea with:
- Rum, bourbon, or vodka
- A splash of coffee liqueur or Baileys for a creamy punch
Serve over crushed ice and garnish with a mint sprig or cinnamon stick.
Healthier Homemade Benefits
Making Thai iced tea at home doesn’t just save you money — it also gives you control over what goes in your glass. Unlike many pre-made or restaurant versions that can be loaded with sugar and artificial flavorings, homemade Thai tea lets you:
- Reduce sugar for a lower-calorie option
- Choose your milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- Skip artificial colors by using natural tea or food coloring alternatives like beet or turmeric powder
Even better, black tea is rich in antioxidants, which may support heart health, improve focus, and boost immunity when consumed in moderation.
🥤 Perfect Pairings
Thai iced tea isn’t just a standalone treat — it pairs beautifully with spicy or savory dishes, helping cool your palate between bites. Try it with:
- Pad Thai
- Spicy green curry
- Fried rice
- Mango sticky rice
Or serve it as a refreshing dessert drink after a light meal.
🎉 Final Thoughts: Spice & Ice in a Glass
Thai Iced Tea is more than just a pretty drink — it’s a celebration of bold flavors, creamy textures, and cultural richness. With its spicy notes, silky finish, and signature orange glow, it’s a beverage that offers both comfort and refreshment in every sip.
Best of all, this Easy Thai Iced Tea Recipe brings the magic home with minimal effort and ingredients. Whether you’re impressing guests, cooling down on a hot day, or simply treating yourself, this spiced-and-iced delight is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
So go ahead — brew a batch, pour it over ice, swirl in some cream, and let yourself fall in love with one of Thailand’s most iconic drinks.