Craving the sweet, creamy, and spicy taste of Thai tea? Skip the powdered mix and make Thai Tea from Scratch right at home! With just a few ingredients, you can brew a vibrant, flavorful Thai iced tea that rivals your favorite restaurant version — no artificial colors or preservatives needed.
Made with real tea leaves, aromatic spices, and sweetened condensed milk, this iconic orange drink is both refreshing and indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Thai Tea
- Authentic flavor without pre-made mixes
- Naturally rich color from brewed tea and spices
- Creamy and sweet with just the right balance
- Customizable — control the sweetness and milk type
- Perfect for hot days, Asian-inspired dinners, or bubble tea fans
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons Thai tea leaves (or strong black tea like Ceylon)
- 1 star anise pod
- 1 small cinnamon stick (optional)
- 2–3 whole cloves (optional)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons evaporated milk or whole milk
- Ice, for serving
Instructions
- Boil and brew: Bring water to a boil. Add tea leaves, star anise, cinnamon, and cloves. Reduce heat and simmer for 3–5 minutes.
- Strain and sweeten: Remove from heat and strain through a fine mesh or cheesecloth. Stir in sugar while still hot.
- Cool: Let the tea cool slightly, then refrigerate or pour over ice.
- Finish with milk: Pour into a glass of ice and top with sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk. Stir before drinking or enjoy the layered effect.
Variations
- Use plant-based milks like oat, almond, or coconut for a dairy-free version
- Add boba pearls for Thai milk bubble tea
- Adjust sweetness or spice to your preference
- Brew a stronger tea and serve hot for chilly days
Tips for Best Results
- Use authentic Thai tea leaves for color and flavor (try Pantai or Number One brands)
- Simmer with spices for depth and aroma
- Chill tea fully before serving for a more refreshing taste
- Make in advance and store the tea concentrate in the fridge for up to 4 days
Final Thoughts
Thai Tea from Scratch is a flavorful and fun drink that brings a taste of Southeast Asia right to your kitchen. With real ingredients and no shortcuts, you’ll enjoy a smoother, more aromatic version than anything from a bottle — and you can make it exactly the way you like it.