Thai Milk Tea

Thai Milk Tea is a vibrant, sweet, and creamy beverage that originated in Thailand, typically made from strongly brewed black tea (often a Ceylon blend), star anise, crushed tamarind, cardamom, and other spices, which is then sweetened with sugar and condensed milk, and served over ice with a float of evaporated milk. Its iconic bright orange color is a hallmark of the drink, which is a staple in Thai street food culture and restaurants worldwide.

🍳 View the full Thai Milk Tea recipe →

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This is a high-carbohydrate and high-sugar beverage, with very little protein or fat unless additional milk is used, and a typical serving can range from 150 to 300 calories depending on the amount of sweeteners and milk added. The key nutrients are quick energy from sugars and a small amount of calcium from the dairy components.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	180 kcal
Protein	2.5 g
Carbs	35 g
Fat	3.5 g
Fiber	0 g
Sugar	32 g
Sodium	50 mg
Calcium	80 mg
Iron	0.5 mg
Potassium	120 mg
Vitamin A	150 IU
Vitamin D	1.5 mcg
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)	0.1 mg
Vitamin B12	0.3 mcg
Phosphorus	70 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, Thai Milk Tea is a beloved symbol of Thai street food and social gatherings, often enjoyed as a refreshing treat in the tropical climate. Its unique orange hue comes from food coloring traditionally added to the tea mix, making it instantly recognizable and a visual icon of Thai cuisine.