Name: Creamy Thai Tea Ice Cream You Can Make Without Churning
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 502 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Thai Tea Mix (Look for brands like Pantai for authenticity.); 1 cup Whole Milk (Can substitute with coconut milk for dairy-free.); 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream (Ensure it's well whipped for creaminess.); 1 cup Sweetened Condensed Milk (Key ingredient for sweetness.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Using pure vanilla is recommended.); 1 cup Unsweetened Toasted Coconut Flakes (Add for texture; replace with nuts if desired.)

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As I stood in my kitchen on a sweltering summer day, the idea of making a refreshing dessert struck me like a breeze. That day, I decided to turn the delightful flavors of Thai iced tea into something lighter and creamier—a No Churn Thai Tea Ice Cream that would capture the essence of this beloved drink. The best part? You don’t need any fancy equipment to create this creamy, dreamy delight! It whips together effortlessly, making it the perfect treat to cool off with when the sun blazes. Plus, it’s an easy dessert recipe that everyone will love, and it brings a slice of Thai culture right to your home. Are you ready to be the hero of your next gathering with this unexpected summer treat? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is Thai Tea Ice Cream So Special?

Unique Flavor Fusion: This creamy delight blends rich Thai tea flavors with a luscious texture, offering a taste that’s both nostalgic and refreshing.

No Churn Convenience: No ice cream maker? No problem! This dessert comes together in moments, making it a hassle-free option for any summer occasion.

Versatile Variations: Want to mix things up? Substitute with coconut milk or enhance with spices like cardamom for a delightful twist.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Everyone loves ice cream, and this Thai Tea Ice Cream is sure to impress, transforming your gatherings into memorable experiences.

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth: With a balanced sweetness from condensed milk, this dessert offers a perfect end to a warm day, just like my Cream Cheese Salami Roll-Ups serve as a savory treat.

Thai Tea Ice Cream Ingredients

• To create this heavenly Thai Tea Ice Cream, gather these essential ingredients!

For the Base

Thai Tea Mix – This is the main flavor component; look for brands like Pantai for authenticity.
Whole Milk – Provides moisture and creaminess to the base; can substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Heavy Whipping Cream – This adds richness and makes the ice cream creamy; ensure it’s well whipped to incorporate air.
Sweetened Condensed Milk – A key ingredient for sweetness, it achieves the desired creamy texture; substituting with evaporated milk will alter the ice cream’s texture.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor complexity; using pure vanilla is recommended over imitation.

For the Garnish (optional)

Unsweetened Toasted Coconut Flakes – Adds texture and an extra coconut flavor; replace with nuts for a crunchier topping.

This Thai Tea Ice Cream is a simple, no churn dessert that captures delightful summer vibes effortlessly!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for No Churn Thai Tea Ice Cream

Step 1: Heat the Base
In a medium saucepan, combine the Thai tea mix, whole milk, and ½ cup of heavy whipping cream. Set the heat to medium-low and stir gently while heating until the mixture is steaming and a vibrant orange hue, about 5-7 minutes. You want the tea to infuse its flavors fully without bringing it to a boil, so keep an eye on the temperature.

Step 2: Strain the Mixture
Once the tea is heated and fragrant, remove the saucepan from heat. Carefully strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl to remove the tea leaves, pressing down gently with a spatula to extract as much liquid as possible. The resulting tea liquid should be rich and aromatic, ready to mix with the other ingredients for your Thai Tea Ice Cream.

Step 3: Mix in Sweetness
In a separate bowl, combine the strained tea liquid with the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Whisk together until the mixture is completely smooth and the sweetened condensed milk is fully incorporated, about 2-3 minutes. This step is essential to achieving the creamy sweetness that defines your No Churn Thai Tea Ice Cream.

Step 4: Whip the Cream
In a chilled mixing bowl, pour the remaining heavy whipping cream. Using an electric mixer, whip the cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, which should take around 3-5 minutes. This whipped cream will add volume and a delightful creaminess to your Thai Tea Ice Cream, so ensure it’s well whipped and fluffy.

Step 5: Fold Together Gently
Gradually fold the whipped cream into the tea mixture in 2-3 batches. Use a spatula to gently combine them, making sure not to deflate the whipped cream. This should take around 2-3 minutes, resulting in a light and airy mix that will transform into a creamy, luscious No Churn Thai Tea Ice Cream.

Step 6: Freeze the Mixture
Transfer the combined mixture into a loaf or cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent ice crystals from forming. Place the pan in the freezer and let the Thai Tea Ice Cream freeze for at least 8 hours, or until solid. When it’s done, you’ll have a bright orange block of deliciousness waiting for you!

Step 7: Serve with Toppings
Once your ice cream is fully frozen, remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping. Serve the Thai Tea Ice Cream in bowls, optionally garnished with toasted coconut flakes for added texture and flavor. Each scoop will be a creamy, dreamy delight!

What to Serve with No Churn Thai Tea Ice Cream?

Indulging in a scoop of creamy bliss calls for the perfect accompaniments to elevate your dessert experience.

Tropical Fresh Fruit: A mix of juicy mango, pineapple, and kiwi adds a burst of freshness and complements the rich flavors beautifully. The contrast in textures will dance on your palate.
Coconut Macaroons: These chewy, sweet treats heighten the coconut notes of the ice cream, creating a delightful symphony of flavors. They make for a lovely crunchy addition.
Shortbread Cookies: The buttery and crumbly texture of shortbread provides a perfect counterbalance to the creamy ice cream. Serve them on the side for a delightful crunch!
Mint Leaves: Garnishing with fresh mint not only adds a pop of color, but its refreshing aroma will enhance the overall dessert experience. A simple touch that brings it all together!
Spiced Chai Latte: Pairing your ice cream with a warm, spiced chai latte creates a cozy contrast. The aromatic spices blend well with the flavors of the Thai tea.
Dark Chocolate Drizzle: A rich, velvety chocolate drizzle over your scoops will amplify the sweetness while adding a decadent edge. It’s an indulgent treat that’s hard to resist!
Ginger Cookies: These zesty cookies introduce a lovely spice that complements the creaminess of your Thai Tea Ice Cream. The warmth of ginger adds an exciting twist!
Sparkling Citrus Drink: Refresh with a bubbly citrus drink, such as a spritz of lemon or grapefruit soda, to cleanse the palate. The effervescence will leave your taste buds dancing.
Lime Sorbet: For a bold contrast, serve a bright, zesty lime sorbet alongside, enhancing the overall experience with its tanginess and refreshing qualities.

Each pairing lovingly complements the creamy delight of your No Churn Thai Tea Ice Cream, making every dessert moment a cherished memory.

Expert Tips for Thai Tea Ice Cream

Whipping Cream Tips: Ensure your heavy whipping cream is super cold before whipping; this helps achieve the perfect fluffy texture for your Thai Tea Ice Cream.
Avoid Overmixing: When folding in the whipped cream, use a gentle hand to maintain volume; overmixing can deflate the cream and result in a denser texture.
Straining Technique: Use a fine mesh sieve for straining; pressing down firmly on the tea leaves ensures you get every drop of those rich flavors into your ice cream base.
Freezing Time: Don’t rush the freezing process! Let the mixture freeze for at least 8 hours; a longer freeze time allows for the best texture and flavor development.
Scooping Made Easy: If your Thai Tea Ice Cream is too hard to scoop, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften it up without melting it.

How to Store and Freeze Thai Tea Ice Cream

Fridge: Store any leftover Thai Tea Ice Cream in an airtight container for up to 3 days. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to freeze it.

Freezer: Keep the ice cream tightly covered in a freezer-safe container to prevent ice crystal formation; it can last up to 2 weeks.

Reheating: If your ice cream becomes too hard, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before scooping. This will make it easier to serve without melting.

Wrapping: For added freshness, cover the ice cream surface with plastic wrap directly before sealing with the container lid to lock in flavor.

Thai Tea Ice Cream Variations

Feel free to customize this delightful recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences!

Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with coconut milk for a completely dairy-free version, keeping it rich and creamy.
Nutty Crunch: Replace half of the toasted coconut flakes with chopped nuts, like almonds or pistachios, for an added crunch that complements the creamy texture.
Flavor Infusion: Experiment by infusing other teas, such as jasmine or oolong, into the base for a unique flavor twist that still celebrates the essence of Thai cuisine.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cardamom or cinnamon to the tea mix while heating for a warm, aromatic flavor that elevates your ice cream experience.
Low-Calorie Option: Replace sweetened condensed milk with a low-calorie sweetener like monk fruit sweetener, maintaining sweetness without the extra calories.
Fruity Swirl: Stir in a swirl of mango or passion fruit puree before freezing for a tropical flair that turns your ice cream into a refreshing treat for summer gatherings.
Heavenly Toppings: Top your scoops with fresh fruit, like mango slices or berries, creating a beautiful presentation and a zesty flavor contrast to the creamy ice cream.
Indulgent Pairing: Serve alongside my decadent Brownie Ice Cream for a fun dessert buffet that brings together various delightful flavors, pleasing everyone at your gathering.

Make Ahead Options

These No Churn Thai Tea Ice Cream preparations are perfect for busy schedules! You can prepare the tea mixture and sweetened condensed milk blend up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply combine them in a bowl, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you’re ready to whip the cream and fold it in. Additionally, you can whip the cream and fold it into the tea mixture up to 3 hours before serving; just make sure to keep the final mixture covered in the freezer to maintain its airy texture and prevent ice crystals. When ready to enjoy, simply freeze the combined ice cream for at least 8 hours, and you’ll have a delightful, creamy dessert waiting for you!

No Churn Thai Tea Ice Cream Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right Thai tea mix?
Absolutely! Look for high-quality Thai tea blends, preferably brands like Pantai or other trusted names. Authentic Thai tea typically has a vibrant orange color and a strong, aromatic flavor. If you’re unsure, check the ingredient list for natural flavors and avoid any that add artificial coloring or preservatives for the best experience in your No Churn Thai Tea Ice Cream.

How should I store the ice cream, and how long will it stay fresh?
Very good question! To keep your Thai Tea Ice Cream creamy and delicious, store it in an airtight, freezer-safe container. This way, it will maintain its quality for up to two weeks. For optimal texture, always cover the surface with plastic wrap before sealing the container to avoid ice crystal formation, which can ruin the experience!

Can I freeze Thai Tea Ice Cream for later?
Definitely! Your No Churn Thai Tea Ice Cream can be frozen solid and will last up to two weeks. Just ensure it’s tightly wrapped in plastic, and sealed to protect against freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before scooping to soften a bit!

What if my ice cream ends up too hard?
I often face this too, but there’s a simple fix! If your ice cream becomes too hard, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before scooping. This softening step will make serving so much easier while keeping it delightful and creamy.

Are there any dietary modifications for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, substitute the whole milk and heavy whipping cream with coconut milk and light coconut cream. For sweetening alternatives, try using a dairy-free condensed milk option. Keep in mind that these substitutions might slightly alter the texture but will still yield a delicious Thai Tea Ice Cream treat!