Cha Yen Recipe : How to Make Authentic Thai Iced Tea at Home

🌿 What Is Cha Yen?

Cha Yen literally means “cold tea” in Thai. It’s traditionally made with Thai tea mix, a blend of strong black tea (often Ceylon or Assam), spices like star anise and tamarind, and sometimes orange food coloring for that signature color.

It’s a staple across Thailand — from Bangkok’s street vendors to modern cafés — often served in plastic bags with straws or tall frosty glasses.

🧋 Ingredients

To make one large glass (or two smaller ones), you’ll need:

• 2 tablespoons Thai tea mix (brand: ChaTraMue is most popular)

• 1 cup hot water (about 240 ml)

• 2 teaspoons sugar (adjust to taste)

• 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk

• 2 tablespoons evaporated milk (or whole milk for creamier texture)

• Ice cubes or crushed ice

Optional: a splash of half-and-half or coconut milk for extra richness.

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Brew the tea

   • Add the Thai tea mix to hot water.

   • Stir well and steep for 3–5 minutes until strong and fragrant.

   • Strain through a fine sieve or cheesecloth to remove tea leaves.

1. Sweeten the base

   • While still warm, stir in sugar and condensed milk until dissolved.

   • Let it cool to room temperature.

2. Assemble the drink

   • Fill a tall glass with crushed ice.

   • Pour the cooled tea mixture over the ice.

   • Top with evaporated milk (or coconut milk) to create a creamy swirl effect.

1. Stir & enjoy!

   • Mix gently and sip your way to tropical bliss.

💡 Tips for the Perfect Cha Yen

• Use authentic Thai tea mix for the right flavor and color — Western black teas alone won’t taste the same.

• For a vegan version, replace milk products with coconut milk and sweetened coconut condensed milk.

• Serve with Thai desserts like Thong Yod (golden drops) or Khanom Buang for a complete Thai experience.

🌞 Why Thai Iced Tea Is So Popular

Thai iced tea isn’t just a drink — it’s part of the country’s food culture. It reflects Thailand’s love for bold flavors and perfect balance: strong tea, rich milk, and a sweet finish that refreshes you even in 35°C Bangkok heat.

It’s also become a global favorite, found in bubble tea shops, Thai restaurants, and dessert cafés worldwide.

✨ Final Thoughts

Making Cha Yen at home is simple yet deeply satisfying. Every sip brings you closer to the warmth and charm of Thai street culture — where every drink is made with heart, ice, and a smile.

So next time you crave something sweet, creamy, and cooling, skip the café and try this authentic Thai Iced Tea recipe yourself.