Thai tea is a flavorful, eye-catching drink that blends the strong taste of black tea with the smooth sweetness of condensed milk.
This popular beverage, commonly found in Thai restaurants and street stalls, is loved for its distinctive taste and vibrant orange color.
Making Thai tea at home is surprisingly simple, and with just a few ingredients, you can easily recreate this delicious drink in your kitchen.
Get how to make thai tea with condensed milk —from brewing the tea to adding the creamy, sweet finish. Let’s get started on making this irresistible, aromatic drink!
What is Thai Tea?
Thai tea is a distinctive and flavorful drink that hails from Thailand, known for its bold taste and vibrant orange hue. Made primarily from strong black tea, it often incorporates spices like star anise, tamarind, and sometimes cardamom, creating a deep and complex flavor profile. The tea is brewed to a robust strength, which provides a solid base for the rich, creamy addition of sweetened condensed milk.
The defining feature of Thai tea is the sweetened condensed milk, which adds a smooth, velvety texture and a rich sweetness, balancing the strong flavors of the tea and spices. This combination results in a deliciously indulgent drink that is both sweet and creamy, offering a satisfying and refreshing taste.
Traditionally served iced, Thai tea is often poured over ice, making it the perfect drink for warm days. However, it can also be enjoyed hot, providing a comforting and aromatic experience during cooler weather.
Widely available in Thai restaurants, street vendors, and tea shops globally, Thai tea’s unique color and flavor continue to captivate people, making it a must-try drink for those looking to explore something new and exotic.
How to make thai tea with condensed milk:
Making Thai tea with condensed milk is an easy way to enjoy this rich, creamy, and sweet beverage at home. Here’s a simple guide about how to make thai tea with condensed milk in your own kitchen.
A). Ingredients Needed
- 4-6 tablespoons of Thai tea leaves (or Thai tea mix)
- 4 cups of water
- 3-4 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk (adjust based on your preference)
- Optional: 2 tablespoons of evaporated milk for extra creaminess
- Ice (if you’re making iced Thai tea)
B). Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brew the Tea
- Begin by boiling 4 cups of water in a kettle or pot.
- Add the Thai tea leaves to the hot water and let them steep for about 5-7 minutes, depending on how strong you want the flavor to be.
- If you’re using a pre-made Thai tea mix, follow the instructions provided on the package for the best result.
2. Add Condensed Milk for Sweetness
- After steeping, strain the tea to remove the leaves using a fine strainer or cheesecloth.
- While the tea is still hot, stir in 3-4 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk. Taste and adjust the sweetness as you go.
- For a creamier texture, add 2 tablespoons of evaporated milk, if desired.
3. Chill and Serve Iced (Optional)
- If you prefer iced Thai tea, allow the tea to cool down to room temperature before placing it in the fridge to chill.
- Once cooled, pour it over a glass of ice and, if you like, drizzle with extra condensed milk for added sweetness.
4. Enjoy Hot (Optional)
- For a cozy, hot version, simply pour the tea into a mug and enjoy it as it is or with a little extra condensed milk for extra richness.
Helpful Tips for the Best Thai Tea with Condensed Milk:
- Customize the sweetness: Thai tea is typically quite sweet, but feel free to adjust the amount of condensed milk according to your taste.
- Opt for quality tea leaves: The flavor of the tea plays a big role in the final taste, so choose good-quality Thai tea for the best results.
- Try coconut milk: For a twist, substitute regular milk with coconut milk to add a tropical, creamy flavor to your tea.
With these simple steps, you’ll be able to make a delicious, homemade Thai tea with condensed milk that’s perfect for any occasion!
Variations and Customizations:
While the traditional Thai tea with condensed milk is already a delightful treat, there are countless ways to personalize it to fit your taste or to try out new, exciting variations. Here are some fun ideas to customize your Thai tea:
1. Explore Different Milk Options
- Coconut Milk: Swap out regular milk for coconut milk to infuse your tea with a rich, tropical flavor. This option is also ideal for those looking for a dairy-free alternative while adding extra creaminess.
- Almond Milk: If you’re seeking a lighter flavor with a touch of nuttiness, almond milk is a great choice. It complements the spiced tea while offering a subtly different taste.
- Oat Milk: For a smooth, creamy texture, oat milk is an excellent dairy-free substitute. It blends effortlessly with Thai tea and adds a naturally mild sweetness.
2. Adjust the Sweetness
- Less Condensed Milk: If you prefer a less sugary version, reduce the amount of condensed milk and substitute with a bit of sugar or honey to taste. This gives you more control over the sweetness while maintaining a creamy texture.
- Flavored Syrups: Adding flavored syrups such as vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut can give your Thai tea a unique twist. These syrups not only sweeten but also add a flavorful layer to your drink.
3. Spice Things Up
- Cinnamon or Nutmeg: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg brings a warming touch to your Thai tea, enhancing the spices already present in the tea. It adds a comforting, aromatic layer to the flavor.
- Ginger: Fresh or ground ginger offers a spicy, zesty kick that pairs well with the sweetness of condensed milk, adding a bit of heat to the tea.
- Cardamom or Star Anise: Thai tea often includes these spices. If you’re brewing your own, consider adding a little more cardamom or star anise for an even more aromatic and authentic taste.
4. Iced or Hot Versions
- Thai Iced Tea Latte: For a creamy twist, turn your iced Thai tea into a latte by adding a splash of milk (dairy or plant-based) and topping it with whipped cream. It’s a rich, indulgent version of the classic drink.
- Hot Thai Tea: While Thai tea is typically served cold, you can also enjoy it hot. Skip the ice and serve the tea warm, with extra milk and condensed milk for a comforting, cozy drink.
5. Add Fruit Flavors
- Lemon or Lime: A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime can balance out the sweetness of the tea, adding a refreshing burst of citrus flavor. This is especially delicious when served iced.
- Tropical Fruits: To make the drink even more exotic, try adding fruit purees or garnishes like mango or passionfruit. These fruits pair wonderfully with the richness of Thai tea, creating a fresh and tropical experience.
Read Next: Avocado Salad With Cherry
6. Vegan and Dairy-Free Options
- Sweetened Condensed Coconut Milk: For a vegan version of Thai tea, replace regular condensed milk with sweetened condensed coconut milk. This gives the tea the same creamy texture but without any dairy.
- Plant-Based Milk and Natural Sweeteners: Pair plant-based milks with alternative sweeteners like maple syrup or agave to create a dairy-free, vegan Thai tea that’s just as delicious as the traditional version.
With these variations and customizations, you can easily make Thai tea with condensed milk your own. Don’t hesitate to experiment and find the version that suits you best!
Take Away:
- Making Thai tea with condensed milk is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy this creamy, sweet, and flavorful drink right at home.
- If you like it hot or cold, it offers a perfect combination of bold tea, spices, and rich sweetness.
- With just a few basic ingredients, you can easily recreate this iconic beverage and make it your own by trying different milk options, adjusting the sweetness, or adding unique flavors.
Call to Action:
- Are you ready to brew your own Thai tea with condensed milk? Gather your ingredients, steep your tea, and start experimenting with your favorite variations!
- If you go for the classic recipe or add a personal twist, we’d love to hear about your creations.
- Share your Thai tea experience with us and let us know how you make it uniquely yours. Enjoy your homemade Thai tea and savor every sip! Be Pinterest.
FAQs | how to make thai tea with condensed milk
can you make thai tea with almond milk
Yes, almond milk works well for making Thai tea. It adds a subtle nutty flavor that pairs nicely with the sweetness of condensed milk and is a great dairy-free option.
2. Is Thai tea typically served hot or cold?
Thai tea is most commonly served iced, especially in warmer climates. However, it can also be enjoyed hot for a cozy, comforting experience.
3. Can I adjust how sweet my Thai tea is?
Definitely! You can modify the sweetness by adding more or less condensed milk, depending on how sweet you want your tea. It’s easy to customize to your taste.
4. Can I substitute regular milk for condensed milk in Thai tea?
While you can use regular milk, it won’t offer the same rich, creamy sweetness that condensed milk does. Condensed milk is key to achieving the smooth, sweet flavor that defines Thai tea.
5. What can I add to Thai tea for extra flavor?
Spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and star anise can enhance the flavor of your Thai tea. A splash of fresh lemon or lime can also add a bright, refreshing kick.
6. Is it possible to make Thai tea without using loose tea leaves?
Yes, you can use pre-brewed Thai tea bags or tea mixes that already include the tea and spices, making the preparation process quicker and easier.