Save This creamy Thai Iced Coffee balances rich bold coffee with sweetened condensed milk and a hint of spice for a refreshing pick-me-up that always brings café vibes home The first time I tried making it was during a hot summer afternoon craving something beyond my usual cold brew Once I tasted the aromatic combo of coffee and cardamom swirling with cream it quickly became a weekend ritual
We have made endless batches experimenting with different milks and spices and there is just something special about the creamy foam and cool chill on a hot day
Ingredients
- Strong brewed coffee: Choose Thai or dark roast for bold flavor Freshly ground beans create the most robust taste
- Ground cardamom: Optional but adds authentic warmth Use pods for even more aroma if you can get them
- Sweetened condensed milk: Creates sweetness and creamy body Look for a well-sealed can with no dents for freshness
- Evaporated milk or whole milk: Lends extra silkiness Non-dairy options work well too
- Sugar: Rounds out bitterness Adjust to taste Go for superfine if you want it to dissolve quickly
- Ice cubes: Essential for that signature chill Use filtered water for clear crisp ice
Instructions
- Brew the Coffee:
- Prepare two cups of strong hot coffee using your favorite method If you love a floral spicy note stir cardamom into the grounds before brewing to infuse the flavor
- Sweeten the Coffee:
- While the coffee is hot mix in sugar until completely dissolved This little step ensures no granules are left behind
- Chill the Coffee:
- Let the sweetened coffee sit at room temperature until cooled or refrigerate it for extra chill The colder the better for those distinct layers later
- Prepare Your Glasses:
- Fill two tall clear glasses all the way with fresh ice cubes This is key for that restaurant-style look and extra refreshing flavor
- Pour in the Coffee:
- Distribute the chilled coffee evenly over the ice letting it cascade down for a dramatic effect
- Add the Creamy Layer:
- Divide sweetened condensed milk between the glasses stirring until everything is swirled together and silky smooth
- Finish and Serve:
- Drizzle evaporated milk gently on top for a lush creamy cap Serve right away with a spoon or straw to mingle the flavors on your terms
Save I always look forward to the sweetened condensed milk It adds not only richness but also that nostalgic dessert quality My family jokes that we need to stockpile cans before every heatwave because this drink disappears so fast from our fridge Once my sister even requested Thai iced coffee as her birthday cake substitute
Storage Tips
If you want to prep ahead keep the brewed sweetened coffee in a covered pitcher in the fridge up to two days Add milks and ice only when ready to serve to keep layers crisp and flavors fresh If you have leftovers stir well before chilling again and enjoy within twenty four hours
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap coconut condensed milk and oat or almond milk for a vegan version You can use honey instead of sugar although the flavor will change slightly For an extra spicy kick try a pinch of cinnamon or even ground star anise
Serving Suggestions
Garnish with a cinnamon stick or star anise on top Pair with spicy Thai noodle dishes or sweet baked treats Serve in glass mugs to show off the layers or in to-go cups for park picnics
Cultural Context
Thai iced coffee known as Oliang in Thailand comes from a rich street café tradition There you will find vendors brewing coffee in cloth bags combining robusta beans with spices and sweeteners for a truly unique base Almost every market has its signature twist with some recipes featuring corn or sesame too
Seasonal Adaptations
Use coconut condensed milk for a tropical twist Add chai spices like clove and allspice in fall Try with Vietnamese robusta coffee in winter for extra intensity
Success Stories
Friends and family rave about this recipe at every summer party Some swear by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert others drink it black with just a hint of spice My niece once turned leftovers into coffee popsicles that became an instant hit at our picnic
Freezer Meal Conversion
You can freeze leftover sweetened coffee in ice cube trays for instant iced drinks later Just blend coffee cubes with milk for a quick treat on busy mornings or after-school snacks
Save Thai Iced Coffee makes every summer gathering feel special Try it once and you will want to keep a pitcher in the fridge all season long
Recipe FAQ
- → What kind of coffee is best for Thai Iced Coffee?
Use Thai coffee or a dark roast for robust, bold flavor. Freshly brewed coffee enhances richness and aroma in the drink.
- → How is sweetness adjusted?
Control sweetness by varying the amount of condensed milk and sugar. Taste and mix before serving to find your preferred balance.
- → Can I make this beverage vegan?
Absolutely. Substitute coconut condensed milk and your favorite plant-based milk for creamy texture without dairy.
- → What spices add authenticity?
A pinch of ground cardamom gives traditional flavor. Garnishing with cinnamon or star anise boosts aromatic appeal.
- → How should the drink be served?
Fill tall glasses with ice, pour chilled coffee over, then finish with milk drizzled on top. Serve immediately for best taste.
- → Are any special tools needed?
A coffee maker or French press will brew the coffee. You'll also need measuring spoons and tall glasses for proper serving.