Ultimate Homemade Thai Tea Recipe – Creamy, Authentic & Refreshing

Thai tea, also known as Cha Yen, is a beloved beverage originating from Thailand, famous for its striking orange color, creamy texture, and rich, sweet flavor. Served hot or iced, it is a combination of strong brewed black tea, aromatic spices, sugar, and creamy milk.

Unlike regular iced tea, Thai tea is distinct because of the addition of star anise, tamarind, and sometimes food coloring or orange pekoe tea for its signature hue. This beverage is not just visually appealing but also provides a burst of flavor that balances sweet, bitter, and aromatic notes.

Homemade Thai tea allows you to control the ingredients, sweetness, and milk content while enjoying the authentic taste at home. It can be a refreshing drink for any time of the day and works well as a dessert beverage or paired with Asian cuisine. This article explains what Thai tea is, its nutrients, main ingredients, quantities, detailed preparation steps, healthy habits, and variations that you can easily try.

Also read: Mango Iced Tea Recipe

What is Thai Tea?

Thai tea is a strong, spiced tea traditionally brewed using black tea leaves mixed with star anise, crushed tamarind, cardamom, and sometimes cloves. The tea is sweetened with sugar and enriched with evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, or coconut milk. In Thailand, it is often served over ice, but it can also be enjoyed hot. The drink is popular in cafes worldwide due to its creamy texture and sweet-spicy flavor profile.

Unlike standard tea, Thai tea has a bold orange color, primarily derived from food coloring or the combination of strong tea leaves and spices. Its richness and sweetness make it a dessert-like drink, and the spices provide an aromatic depth that sets it apart from traditional black teas. By preparing it at home, you can adjust sweetness, milk type, and spice intensity to suit your preference.

Also read: Homemade Chai Tea Latte Recipe

Nutrients and Health Benefits

Thai tea is not considered a health drink, but it does have some nutritional value depending on the ingredients used. Black tea contains antioxidants known as polyphenols, which help protect cells from oxidative stress and may support heart health. Star anise and cardamom contribute small amounts of antioxidants, vitamins, and aromatic compounds that aid digestion.

Evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, or coconut milk provides fats, protein, and calcium, though the sugar content increases calorie count. By controlling the amount of sweetener or choosing healthier alternatives, homemade Thai tea can be a more balanced beverage. Moderate consumption can offer hydration, a caffeine boost, and a flavorful treat without excessive sugar intake.

Also read: 20 Benefits of Chlorophyll Water

Main Ingredients (With Full Explanation and Quantity)

1. Strong Black Tea Leaves

Quantity: 4 tablespoons (about 20 grams) of black tea leaves
Role: Black tea is the base of Thai tea and provides caffeine, bold color, and tannins. A strong brew ensures the flavor holds up when mixed with milk and sugar.

2. Star Anise

Quantity: 2 whole star anise pods
Role: Adds aromatic licorice-like flavor and warmth. Star anise enhances the spiced profile of Thai tea without overpowering it.

3. Cardamom Pods

Quantity: 4-5 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
Role: Contributes a sweet-spicy aroma that complements the black tea and star anise. Crushing releases essential oils for a stronger flavor.

4. Tamarind (Optional)

Quantity: 1 teaspoon tamarind paste or small block
Role: Provides subtle tanginess that balances sweetness and adds depth to the flavor profile. Optional but traditional in authentic recipes.

5. Sugar

Quantity: 6 tablespoons (or to taste) granulated sugar
Role: Sweetens the tea and balances bitterness from black tea and spices. You can adjust based on personal preference or use alternatives like honey or coconut sugar.

6. Milk

Quantity: 1 cup evaporated milk or sweetened condensed milk; ½ cup coconut milk for vegan option
Role: Provides creaminess and balances the bold, spiced tea. Sweetened condensed milk also adds additional sweetness.

7. Food Coloring (Optional)

Quantity: 1-2 drops orange or red food coloring
Role: Creates the iconic bright orange color. Optional, purely aesthetic if natural orange tea leaves are used.

8. Water

Quantity: 4 cups (1 liter) filtered water
Role: Base for brewing tea and dissolving sugar. Clean water ensures a pure flavor profile.

Total Yield

This recipe yields approximately 4 cups (about 1 liter) of Thai tea, enough to serve 3-4 people depending on cup size. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but the best flavor is enjoyed fresh.

How to Prepare Homemade Thai Tea

Step 1: Measure and Prep Ingredients

Start by gathering all ingredients. Measure 4 tablespoons of black tea leaves, 2 star anise pods, 4-5 cardamom pods, and tamarind paste if using. Slice open cardamom pods lightly to release flavor. Measure 6 tablespoons sugar and prepare milk (evaporated, condensed, or coconut). Have a kettle or pot with 4 cups water ready for boiling. Proper prep ensures smooth, step-by-step cooking without rushed mistakes.

Step 2: Boil Spices and Tea

Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan. Add the black tea leaves, star anise, crushed cardamom, and tamarind. Stir briefly and reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Allow the tea to simmer for 5-7 minutes. The water will take on a rich, dark color, and the aroma of spices will intensify. Simmering releases essential oils and deepens the flavor for authentic Thai tea taste.

Step 3: Sweeten the Brew

Add 6 tablespoons sugar to the hot tea while still simmering. Stir until fully dissolved. Sugar not only sweetens the tea but slightly thickens the liquid and balances bitter tannins from the black tea. Adjust sweetness gradually, tasting carefully, to match your preference.

Step 4: Strain the Tea

Remove the tea from heat and strain through a fine mesh sieve into a heatproof jug. Discard the tea leaves and spices. Straining ensures a smooth, clear tea without gritty residues. The tea at this stage is concentrated, dark, and aromatic, ready to be combined with milk.

Step 5: Add Milk and Color

Slowly pour 1 cup milk (evaporated, sweetened condensed, or coconut milk) into the strained tea. Stir gently to combine. For traditional orange Thai tea appearance, add 1-2 drops of food coloring. The tea will become creamy and lighter in color, with a glossy, visually appealing finish.

Step 6: Serve Hot or Iced

For hot Thai tea, serve immediately in cups or mugs. For iced tea, pour over a glass filled with ice cubes. The chilled version is refreshing, especially during warm weather. Stir before drinking to ensure even flavor, as some milk or sugar may settle.

Step 7: Optional Garnishes

Top with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra richness. You can also add a slice of lime for subtle citrus brightness, which contrasts nicely with the creamy, sweet tea. Garnishing elevates presentation and can be appealing for serving to guests.

Healthy Habits

While Thai tea is primarily a treat beverage, there are ways to make it more balanced. Reduce sugar by 25-50% or use natural sweeteners like honey, agave, or coconut sugar. Choose coconut milk or low-fat milk to lower calories and saturated fat. Consume as a dessert or occasional refreshment rather than a daily drink. Pairing with a small portion of nuts or fruit can help balance sweetness with fiber and protein. Homemade tea also avoids additives, preservatives, and artificial colors found in commercial mixes.

Variations of Homemade Thai Tea

1. Coconut Thai Tea

Replace regular milk with ½ cup full-fat coconut milk and reduce sugar slightly. Coconut milk adds a tropical creaminess and naturally complements the spices. The tea will have a subtle nutty flavor and is suitable for vegan diets.

This variation is ideal served iced with crushed ice for a refreshing summer drink. Coconut Thai tea pairs well with tropical desserts such as mango sticky rice or coconut macaroons.

2. Honey-Sweetened Thai Tea

Replace granulated sugar with 3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup. Heat gently to dissolve the honey into the brewed tea. This reduces refined sugar content while maintaining sweetness.

Honey-sweetened tea has a smoother, slightly floral flavor. Serve iced or hot. It is perfect for those seeking a less processed alternative while retaining authentic taste.

3. Spiced Thai Tea with Cinnamon and Cloves

Add ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon and 2-3 whole cloves to the simmering tea. Simmer alongside black tea and star anise for enhanced warmth and aroma.

This variation enhances the chai-like profile and is comforting during colder months. Serve hot with milk and enjoy a more aromatic and spicy version of traditional Thai tea.

4. Thai Tea Latte

Use steamed milk instead of regular milk for a latte version. Froth milk gently and pour over the hot tea. Sweeten with condensed milk or sugar to taste.

This creates a café-style Thai tea experience at home. The steamed milk adds texture and foam, making it feel more like a specialty drink while retaining traditional flavors.

5. Vegan Thai Tea

Use coconut milk or almond milk as the base, and sweeten with maple syrup or agave. Skip sweetened condensed milk entirely for a fully vegan option.

The flavor remains rich and creamy, with the spices and tea providing the characteristic taste. Serve chilled over ice for a vegan-friendly iced Thai tea.

Storage and Shelf Life

Homemade Thai tea can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in a sealed container. Stir well before serving as spices and milk may settle. For best taste, consume within 24 hours. Avoid storing for longer periods as dairy can spoil, especially in warm climates.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Thai Tea

• Always use fresh spices for maximum aroma.
• Simmer tea gently; do not boil aggressively to prevent bitterness.
• Strain carefully to remove all solids for smooth texture.
• Adjust milk type and quantity to control creaminess.
• Taste during preparation and adjust sugar gradually for perfect balance.

Serving Suggestions

Thai tea is versatile: serve over ice with a straw for a refreshing drink, add whipped cream for dessert styling, or pair with sweet treats like Thai desserts, pastries, or tropical fruit. Hot Thai tea pairs well with cookies or cakes. Customize with flavors such as vanilla or cardamom for added complexity.

Equipment Needed

• Saucepan
• Fine-mesh sieve or tea strainer
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Kettle for boiling water
• Glass jug or heatproof container
• Serving cups or glasses

Science Behind Thai Tea

The bold black tea provides tannins and caffeine. Star anise, cardamom, and cloves release essential oils during simmering, which infuse the tea. Milk fats emulsify with the tea and sugar, creating smooth texture. Sugar balances bitterness and accentuates aroma, while optional coloring enhances visual appeal. Simmering at controlled temperatures ensures proper infusion without over-extracting tannins, keeping the flavor rich but not bitter.

Nutrition Snapshot

Approximate per cup (8 oz):

• Calories: 150–220 (depending on milk and sugar)
• Carbohydrates: 20–30 g
• Protein: 3–6 g
• Fat: 5–10 g
• Caffeine: 40–60 mg

Healthier versions using reduced sugar and plant-based milk lower calorie count while maintaining flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Too bitter: Reduce steeping time or use slightly fewer tea leaves.
• Not sweet enough: Adjust sugar gradually, honey or maple syrup can be used.
• Tea too thin: Use more tea leaves or slightly less water for stronger infusion.
• Milk curdling: Add milk after removing from heat and stir gently to combine.

Quick Recipe Card

• Black tea leaves: 4 tablespoons (20 g)
• Star anise: 2 pods
• Cardamom: 4–5 pods
• Tamarind: 1 tsp (optional)
• Sugar: 6 tablespoons
• Milk: 1 cup (evaporated, condensed, or coconut)
• Water: 4 cups
• Food coloring: 1–2 drops (optional)
  Yield: 4 cups (1 liter)

Final Notes

Making Thai tea at home allows customization in sweetness, milk type, and spice intensity. By following this guide, you can enjoy a creamy, aromatic, and refreshing beverage anytime. Variations such as coconut milk, honey sweetened, or spiced versions offer diversity while keeping the authentic taste alive. Perfect for hot or cold serving, Thai tea is a flavorful drink that impresses both family and guests.