Thai Iced Coffee

The story

Thai Iced Coffee, or 'Oliang,' has roots in Thailand's coffee culture, which blends local coffee beans with spices like cardamom. It became popular due to its refreshing nature, especially in hot climates. The drink's unique flavor profile and visual appeal have contributed to its lasting presence in Thai cuisine and its growing popularity worldwide.

How it tastes

Thai Iced Coffee offers a rich, aromatic flavor with the warmth of cardamom and the sweetness from sugar. The cream adds a smooth texture, balancing the robust coffee taste. It's best served chilled, making it a perfect refreshment for hot days or as an afternoon pick-me-up.

Getting it right

The key to a successful Thai Iced Coffee lies in the layering technique and the quality of the coffee. Ensure the coffee is brewed strong and sweetened while hot. Pouring the cream gently over the back of a spoon helps achieve the desired layered effect, enhancing both presentation and taste.

Variations

• Thai Iced Tea — A similar drink made with strong brewed black tea instead of coffee, sweetened and topped with cream.
• Iced Coffee with Condensed Milk — Uses sweetened condensed milk for sweetness and creaminess, often served over ice.

Substitutions

• Cardamom pods — Ground cardamom can be used instead, but use less to avoid overpowering the coffee.
• Heavy cream — Half-and-half or whole milk can substitute for a lighter option.

Questions

Can I use decaf coffee?

Yes, decaf coffee works well if you prefer to avoid caffeine while still enjoying the flavor.

Is it necessary to sweeten the coffee?

While traditional recipes call for sweetness, you can adjust the sugar to your taste or omit it entirely.

Can I make this drink ahead of time?

Yes, you can brew the coffee and sweeten it in advance. Just cool it and store it in the fridge until ready to serve.

This text was drafted by a language model from the catalogue’s data and is machine-translated outside English.

Updated October 5, 2026