This creamy iced milk tea is a rich, smooth, and refreshing beverage made with strong black tea and a blended sweet milk base. It tastes similar to popular bubble tea shop drinks, Thai milk tea, or café-style iced chai latte, but it’s incredibly easy to make at home. The secret to its velvety texture is blending the milk mixture before combining it with the brewed tea. This creates a lightly whipped, silky consistency that coats the ice beautifully and gives that premium coffeehouse look.
Perfect for summer afternoons, brunch gatherings, or as a homemade Starbucks alternative, this drink is budget-friendly and customizable.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
Tea Base
4 cups water
4 black tea bags (or 2 tablespoons loose black tea)
Creamy Milk Blend
2 cups whole milk
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
½ cup evaporated milk (or heavy cream for richer texture)
¼ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
To Serve
3–4 cups ice cubes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brew the Tea
Bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add black tea bags and steep for 5–7 minutes until strong and dark. Remove tea bags and allow the tea to cool completely. For faster cooling, refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Creamy Base
In a high-speed blender, combine whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Blend for 20–30 seconds until smooth and slightly frothy. This step is what gives the drink its signature creamy texture.
3. Combine
Pour the cooled tea into a large pitcher. Add the blended milk mixture and stir until fully combined.
4. Serve
Fill clear glass mugs with ice. Pour the milk tea over the ice and stir gently. Serve immediately.
Pro Tips for Cafe-Quality Results
Use strong brewed tea for bold flavor.
Add 2 tablespoons non-dairy powdered creamer for thicker body.
Substitute Thai tea mix for authentic Thai iced tea color and taste.
For bubble tea lovers, add cooked tapioca pearls.
For a healthier option, use low-fat milk and reduce condensed milk.
Frequently Asked Questions (High-Interest Beverage Topics)
What is the difference between iced milk tea and iced chai latte?
Milk tea typically uses black tea and sweetened condensed milk, while chai latte includes spices like cinnamon and cardamom.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Substitute almond milk, oat milk, and coconut condensed milk for a vegan milk tea recipe.
Is this similar to Starbucks iced tea latte?
Yes, but homemade versions are more affordable and customizable.
How do I make brown sugar boba milk tea?
Add brown sugar syrup and tapioca pearls for a trending bubble tea recipe.
