Iced Thai Tea with Sweetness

A refreshing drink combines bold black tea with creamy sweetness, perfect for cooling down on a warm day. Easy to make and wonderfully satisfying, it’s a delightful way to enjoy a taste of Thailand at home.

Cooking Techniques

Brew the tea strong to get a rich flavor that stands up to the ice and sweetness.
Use sweetened condensed milk for a creamy texture and authentic taste.
Chill the tea completely before serving to keep it cold longer without diluting the flavor.

Ingredients 0/9

6 cups water 1 cup Thai tea leaves 1 tablespoon vanilla extract ½ teaspoon crushed cardamom pods ¼ teaspoon crushed cloves ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 ¼ cups white sugar 1 cup half-and-half, or to taste crushed ice, as needed

Why This Recipe Is So Delicious

This drink offers a perfect balance of bold tea flavors and creamy sweetness. It’s refreshing and satisfying, especially on warm days. The unique spices make it a delightful treat that’s easy to enjoy anytime.

Step 1

Bring some water to a boil in a saucepan. Once it’s boiling, add the tea leaves along with vanilla extract, cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon. Take the pan off the heat, cover it, and let everything steep for about 15 minutes so the flavors really come through.

Step 2

Strain the tea through a fine mesh sieve to get rid of the leaves and spices. Stir in the sugar while the tea is still warm, making sure it dissolves completely. Let the tea cool down, then pop it in the fridge to chill for a couple of hours.

Step 3

When you’re ready to serve, fill your glasses with crushed ice and pour the chilled tea over it. Finish by adding a splash of half-and-half on top for a creamy, delicious touch. Enjoy!

people cooked this recipe

By Michael Davis

Michael enjoys creating straightforward meals that are easy to prepare at home.

Simple Serving Suggestions

Serve in tall glasses with plenty of ice for a cooling effect. Garnish with a sprig of mint or a slice of lime for a fresh twist. It pairs well with light snacks like spring rolls or fresh fruit.

Leftover Tips

Store any leftover tea in the refrigerator in a sealed container. Use within 2 days for the best taste. Stir well before serving again, as ingredients may settle or separate over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular black tea instead of Thai tea leaves?

You can, but the flavor will be less authentic. Thai tea leaves have a unique blend that gives the drink its signature taste.

How long should I steep the tea for best flavor?

Steep the tea and spices off the heat for about 15 minutes to extract the best flavors.

Can I use a different type of milk instead of half-and-half?

Yes, you can substitute with whole milk, evaporated milk, or a non-dairy alternative, but it may change the creaminess slightly.

Is it necessary to chill the tea before serving?

Yes, chilling the tea for a couple of hours enhances the flavor and keeps the drink refreshing over ice.

How can I make the tea less sweet?

Reduce the amount of sugar to your taste or add more milk to balance the sweetness.

Can I prepare the tea in advance?

Absolutely, you can make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge until ready to serve.

What if I don’t have crushed cardamom pods?

You can skip them or use a small pinch of ground cardamom as a substitute.

How much ice should I use when serving?

Use enough crushed ice to fill the glass and keep the tea cold without diluting the flavor too much.