On a particularly sweltering day, as I sat sipping a vibrant Thai iced tea, a delightful thought struck me: why not transform this beloved beverage into a frozen dessert? Enter my Creamy No Churn Thai Tea Ice Cream, a dreamy creation that captures the essence of that fragrant drink with lush, creamy texture. This easy dessert requires no ice cream maker, making it perfect for both seasoned home chefs and anyone looking to impress their family without the fuss. Plus, it delivers a unique twist on traditional sweets that’s sure to wow guests at your next summer gathering. Curious about how to bring the exotic flavors of Thailand to your own kitchen? Let’s dive into the blissful simplicity of this delightful recipe!
Why Is This Thai Tea Ice Cream Special?
Simplicity at its finest! With no ice cream maker needed, just a few basic ingredients make this recipe accessible for anyone.
Exotic Flavors come to life as the rich notes of Thai tea blend seamlessly with creamy sweetness, creating a uniquely delicious treat.
Versatile Options allow you to customize; swap in dairy alternatives or experiment with mix-ins like chocolate chips.
Impressive Presentation with its vibrant orange hue and toasted coconut garnish makes it a stunning centerpiece for your dessert table.
Perfect for Any Occasion—whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy indoor treat, this recipe will surely impress friends and family! Indulge in this delightful creation and consider pairing it with a tempting Honey Cream Cheese or a refreshing Piped Cream Cheese for an unforgettable dessert spread.
Thai Tea Ice Cream Ingredients
• Keep it simple with these essentials.
For the Base
- Thai Tea Mix – Provides the authentic flavor and vibrant color of Thai iced tea; available at Asian markets or online.
- Whole Milk – Adds a creamy texture; can be substituted with almond or coconut milk for a lactose-free option.
- Heavy Whipping Cream – Key for achieving that light, airy consistency; do not replace or omit.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – Acts as both a sweetener and a delicious creamy base; skip only if you prefer a less sweet result.
- Vanilla Paste or Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile; pure vanilla extract is an excellent substitute.
For the Garnish
- Coconut Flakes (unsweetened, toasted) – Adds a delightful crunch and a hint of coconut flavor; can be omitted if desired.
Feel free to adjust as necessary, but these ingredients are the heart and soul of this creamy Thai tea ice cream!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy No Churn Thai Tea Ice Cream
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine 4 tablespoons of Thai tea mix, 1 cup of whole milk, and half of the 2 cups of heavy whipping cream. Stir the mixture gently and watch for steam to rise, ensuring it doesn’t boil. You want to see a radiant orange color developing; this will take about 5-7 minutes of careful heating.
Step 2: Strain the Mixture
Once the mixture is steaming and fragrant, remove it from the heat. Carefully pour it through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a heat-safe bowl to separate the tea leaves. Take care, as the vibrant color can stain; wash your hands immediately if it touches your skin. Let this tea-infused liquid cool slightly while you prepare the next step.
Step 3: Mix with Sweetness
Whisk in 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the cooled tea mixture until well combined. This step creates a smooth and creamy base for your Thai Tea Ice Cream, enhancing both sweetness and flavor. Make sure to mix thoroughly until you no longer see streaks, ensuring the sweetened condensed milk is fully integrated.
Step 4: Whip the Cream
Chill a mixing bowl and whisk attachment in the freezer for about 10 minutes. Then, pour the remaining 1.5 cups of heavy whipping cream into the chilled bowl. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip the cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, about 3-5 minutes. The cream should be thick and fluffy, perfect for incorporating into your ice cream base.
Step 5: Fold the Mixtures Together
Gently fold the whipped cream into the Thai tea mixture in batches. Start with about a third of the whipped cream to lighten the base, then slowly incorporate the rest. Use a spatula and a folding motion to combine, being careful not to deflate the fluffy cream—this is crucial for a light and airy texture in your final ice cream.
Step 6: Freeze the Ice Cream
Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan or any freezer-safe container, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover the container tightly to prevent ice crystals from forming. Place it in the freezer for at least 8 hours or until it turns solid. It’s best to let it freeze overnight for optimal texture and flavor.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
When ready to serve your delightful Creamy No Churn Thai Tea Ice Cream, remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping. Serve scoops in bowls or cones, and sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes for an extra touch of texture and flavor. Enjoy the creamy richness and vibrant flavors!
How to Store and Freeze Thai Tea Ice Cream
- Fridge: Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that its texture may become less creamy over time.
- Freezer: For longer storage, keep your Thai Tea Ice Cream in a tightly sealed, insulated container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. This helps maintain its delicious flavor and texture.
- Reheating: If the ice cream is too hard to scoop, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving to soften. Enjoy every creamy scoop!
What to Serve with Creamy No Churn Thai Tea Ice Cream
Transform your dessert into a full experience by pairing it with delightful side dishes and treats.
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Coconut Sticky Rice: A traditional Thai side, this dish’s sweet, chewy texture complements the ice cream beautifully.
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Mango Slices: Fresh, juicy mango adds a tropical sweetness that enhances the rich flavors of the ice cream. Try serving both together for a refreshingly exotic combination.
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Lime Sorbet: This tart sorbet offers a perfect balance to the creamy sweetness, creating a harmonious duo on your dessert plate.
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Thai Spring Rolls: Crispy and fresh, these rolls filled with veggies provide a delightful contrast to the rich ice cream, making each bite a harmonious blend of textures.
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Thai Iced Tea: Experience the original flavor! Sip on chilled Thai iced tea alongside your ice cream for a beautiful synergy of flavors.
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Chilled Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing lift, cleansing the palate and providing some vibrant color to your dessert spread.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A simple touch of melted dark chocolate drizzled over the ice cream can elevate your treat to a decadent level, satisfying sweet cravings.
Expert Tips for Thai Tea Ice Cream
- Whip Cream Properly: Make sure to whip your cream to stiff peaks for the perfect airy texture. This step is crucial for the Thai Tea Ice Cream’s creaminess.
- Gentle Folding: Use a light hand when folding the whipped cream into the tea mixture. Over-mixing can deflate the airiness and compromise the desired texture.
- Check Freezing Time: If your ice cream is too hard to scoop, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften it slightly.
- Storage Secrets: Store your Thai Tea Ice Cream in an airtight, insulated container to prevent unwanted ice crystals from developing.
- Customize Flavors: Feel free to modify the recipe—using dairy alternatives or adding mix-ins like chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and texture!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy No Churn Thai Tea Ice Cream delights are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the base mixture (Steps 1-3) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before whipping the cream and assembling. This keeps the flavors well-developed while allowing you to streamline the process. When ready to finish, simply whip the remaining cream (Step 4) and fold it into the chilled base (Step 5). Transfer the ice cream to your container and freeze for at least 8 hours or overnight for optimal texture. Remember to cover it tightly to prevent ice crystals from forming, ensuring your ice cream remains just as delicious when serving!
Thai Tea Ice Cream Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore and personalize this dreamy dessert with these delicious twists that will awaken your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Swap whole milk with almond or coconut milk for a creamy, lactose-free treat.
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Herbal Twist: Use chamomile or hibiscus tea instead of Thai tea mix for a floral flavor profile that’s equally refreshing.
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Chocolatey Indulgence: Add chocolate chips or chunks for an irresistible creamy contrast that elevates the sweet richness.
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Flavor Burst: Incorporate a tablespoon of coconut cream into the mixture for an extra layer of tropical bliss and enhanced creaminess.
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Less Sweet Option: Reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk to half a cup for a lighter sweetness that allows the tea flavor to shine.
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Nutty Delight: Fold in crushed cashews or almonds for delightful crunch and a hint of nuttiness that complements the creamy texture.
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Coconut Surprise: Garnish with a mix of toasted coconut flakes and chopped dark chocolate for a beautiful finishing touch that adds flavor and texture.
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Layered Dessert: Serve in parfait style by alternating layers of Thai tea ice cream with layers of Baked Cod Sauce to create a delicious fusion of flavors, perfect for the adventurous palate.
Creamy No Churn Thai Tea Ice Cream Recipe FAQs
What type of Thai tea mix should I use?
Absolutely! Look for quality Thai tea mixes like Pantai at your local Asian markets or online. The right tea mix provides that distinctive vibrant color and authentic flavor, ensuring your ice cream captures the essence of traditional Thai iced tea.
How do I store my Thai Tea Ice Cream?
Very simply! Store your ice cream in a tightly sealed, insulated container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Just remember to cover it properly to avoid ice crystals forming on the surface, which can affect the texture.
Can I freeze this ice cream for longer periods?
Of course! While it’s best enjoyed within 2 weeks, if you want to store it longer, you can keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just make sure to place it in an airtight container and seal it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
What should I do if my ice cream is too hard to scoop?
If your Creamy No Churn Thai Tea Ice Cream becomes too hard, don’t worry! Simply let it sit out at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This will allow it to soften just enough to scoop easily while still maintaining its delicious, creamy texture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Indeed! If you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, you can substitute whole milk with almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. For added dietary management, always check the label of your Thai tea mix and sweetened condensed milk for any potential allergens, especially if you have nut allergies.
How can I enhance the flavors of my Thai Tea Ice Cream?
The more, the merrier! Feel free to add mix-ins like chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or even a hint of orange zest for a fun twist. You can also experiment with different herbal tea blends to create unique flavor profiles, just remember to maintain the balance of creaminess.
Creamy Thai Tea Ice Cream That's a Breeze to Make
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine 4 tablespoons of Thai tea mix, 1 cup of whole milk, and half of the 2 cups of heavy whipping cream. Stir gently and ensure it doesn’t boil, heating for 5-7 minutes until a radiant orange color develops.
- Remove from heat and pour through a fine mesh sieve into a heat-safe bowl to separate the tea leaves. Let it cool slightly.
- Whisk in 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the cooled tea mixture until well combined.
- Chill a mixing bowl and whisk attachment in the freezer for about 10 minutes. Pour in the remaining 1.5 cups of heavy whipping cream and whip until stiff peaks form, about 3-5 minutes.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the Thai tea mixture in batches.
- Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan, cover tightly, and freeze for at least 8 hours until solid.
- Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften slightly, then scoop and serve with toasted coconut flakes.
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