Thai Tea Ice Cream Recipe

Thai tea ice cream is a unique frozen dessert that brings the bold, aromatic flavors of traditional Thai iced tea into a creamy, refreshing treat. This recipe captures the sweet, spicy, and slightly bitter notes of Thai tea, balanced perfectly with a smooth, luscious ice cream base. Ideal for hot summer days or as an indulgent dessert any time of year, this Thai tea ice cream is sure to impress your taste buds with its vibrant flavor and exotic appeal.

How to Make this Dessert

Making Thai tea ice cream is a simple and enjoyable process. First, you brew a strong cup of Thai tea using traditional spices and sweetened tea leaves. Next, you blend the cooled tea with a creamy mixture of condensed milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream. The mixture is then churned in an ice cream maker until it becomes smooth and creamy. Finally, you freeze the ice cream to set it perfectly before serving. This easy process lets you enjoy a homemade version of a popular Thai dessert in just a few steps.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoon Thai tea leaves or Thai tea mix
• 2 cups Water
• 2 tablespoons Sugar 
• 1 cup Sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup Evaporated milk
• 1 cup Heavy cream (chilled)
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (optional)
• Ice cream maker(for churning)

Instructions

1. Brew the Thai Tea: Bring 2 cups of water to a boil and add the Thai tea leaves or mix. Stir in sugar and steep for 10 minutes. Strain and cool completely.
2. Mix the Creamy Base: In a large bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
3. Combine with Tea: Once the tea is cool, mix it into the creamy base until well blended.
4. Churn the Mixture: Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions (usually 20-25 minutes) until the texture is smooth and creamy.
5. Freeze: Transfer the churned ice cream into an airtight container and freeze for at least 3 hours until firm.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Scoop: Serve a generous scoop in a bowl with a drizzle of condensed milk.
• Ice Cream Cone: Enjoy in a waffle cone for a fun, portable treat.
• Dessert Parfait: Layer with fresh fruit and granola for a delightful parfait.
• Thai Twist: Top with a sprinkle of toasted coconut or chopped peanuts.
• Garnished Delight: Serve with a mint leaf or a slice of lime on the side to enhance the tropical flavor.

Tips and Variations

• Stronger Thai Flavor: Use a concentrated Thai tea brew to intensify the flavor.
• Vegan Option: Substitute dairy ingredients with coconut milk and coconut cream, and use a vegan sweetener.
• Extra Creaminess: Add an extra 1/2 cup of heavy cream for a richer texture.
• Spice It Up: For a unique twist, add a pinch of ground cardamom or cinnamon.
• No Ice Cream Maker: If you don’t have an ice cream maker, freeze the mixture in a shallow dish and stir vigorously every 30 minutes until set.

Preparation Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Serving Size: Makes about 6 servings

Nutrition Information 

• Calories: 220-250 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 10-12g
• Sugar: 25g
• Calcium: Provides a good source of calcium

Ingredient Substitutes

• Thai Tea: Use strong brewed black tea with a few drops of almond extract for a similar flavor.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Substitute with a homemade version using evaporated milk and sugar.
• Evaporated Milk: Use additional sweetened condensed milk for a sweeter, denser ice cream.
• Heavy Cream: Replace with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
• Vanilla Extract: Use almond extract or omit if you prefer a purer Thai tea flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Thai tea ice cream without an ice cream maker?
Yes, you can freeze the mixture in a shallow dish and stir it every 30 minutes until creamy and frozen.

How long does it take to set the ice cream?
It typically takes about 3 hours in the freezer for the ice cream to firm up.

Can I adjust the sweetness?
Absolutely! You can increase or decrease the sugar or sweetened condensed milk based on your taste.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply substitute coconut milk and coconut cream for the dairy ingredients and use a vegan sweetener.

Conclusion

Thai tea ice cream offers a refreshing and indulgent dessert that perfectly combines the bold flavors of Thai tea with a creamy, smooth ice cream base. Easy to make and customizable to suit your taste, this recipe is a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether enjoyed on a hot summer day or as an after-dinner dessert, this homemade Thai tea ice cream is sure to impress. Try it today and savor the fascinating, aromatic flavors in every spoonful.