As the days continue to get hotter and hotter, I can think of only one antidote for the perfect cool-down. Creamy, spiced, refreshing, and decadent; this nostalgic iced drink has a signature orange hue and is normally served over crushed ice.

How can it get any better than Thai Iced Tea? Found in every drink stand, school cafeteria, mall kiosk, and sidewalk, Thai Iced Tea is perhaps the most popular drink of Thailand, made with a unique black tea blend and topped off with silky rich milk.

However, you don't need to travel far to make it from scratch at home. Here's a recipe from one of the Topiary Team's beloved mom that has the makings of an easy breezy summer refreshment.

Thai Iced Tea or "Cha Yen" (serves 1)

1. 1 tbsp of Thai Tea Leaves

2. 250 ml of Boiling Water

3. 60 ml of Evaporated milk

4. Sugar to taste (Optional: Condensed Milk)

The holy grail of tea leaves and the standard in Thailand is the iconic Cha Dra Muer (also known as Number One Brand). It can be found in the Asian section of the grocery, or online as well. 

Instructions:

1. Brew and steep 1 tablespoon of tea to 250ml of boiling water until it becomes dark and saturated as all the flavors seep out.

2. In a separate vessel, strain the tea and press the leaves to extract as much flavor as possible.

3. Sweeten the tea with as much sugar to your liking, a good start would be around 4 teaspoons. Stir until completely dissolved. Keep in mind that the sweetness will be even more diluted with the milk and ice so don't be afraid to be generous with the sugar. (Optionally, you can sweeten it at this point with condensed milk for even more added richness)

4. In a separate serving glass, top it to the brim with iced, preferably crushed.

5. Pour in your fully dissolved tea and 60ml of evaporated milk, then watch as the creamy clouds cascade down the sides of the glass mixing with the vibrant orange tea.

6. Stir well & serve. To store, keep it chilled.

It's that easy. This classic drink is alternatively adaptable and easy to change to your taste. Make adjustments as you please and have it your way! The Ormocana Carafe suits the iced version perfectly, while the Truest Mugs best accent a hot, mellow version. Some alternative ingredients you can try to level up the drink are coconut milk, brown sugar pearls, or even salty sweet cream on top. 

Don't forget to tag us if you try our recipe, and feel free to share what your favorite summer drink is!