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Authentic Thai iced coffee recipe in tall glass showing beautiful layered effect with dark coffee and creamy milk on wooden table
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Authentic Thai Coffee Recipe (Gafae Yen)

Authentic Bangkok-style Thai iced coffee with sweet condensed milk, evaporated milk, and the secret cardamom spice. This easy recipe creates that famous layered look and tastes just like street-stall Thai coffee. Ready in 10 minutes with ingredients from your local store!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Thai
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 tbsp dark roast coffee grounds (French or Italian roast)
  • 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
  • 2 cups water
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar

Ingredients Section 2: For the Milk Layers

  • 4 tbsp sweetened condensed milk
  • 4 tbsp evaporated milk (or whole milk)
  • 2 cups ice cubes

Method
 

  1. Brew Extra Strong Coffee: Make your coffee extra strong using twice the normal amount of coffee grounds. Add the ground cardamom to the coffee grounds before brewing for authentic Thai flavor.
  2. Sweeten While Hot: While the coffee is still hot, stir in the granulated sugar and salt until completely dissolved. The salt reduces bitterness and enhances the sweet flavors.
  3. Cool Completely: Let the coffee cool to room temperature. Either pour the hot coffee over a large cup of ice to flash-chill it (only if you made it extra strong), OR refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until completely cool.
  4. Prepare Glasses: Place 2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk at the bottom of each tall clear glass. Fill the glasses with fresh ice cubes.
  5. Pour Coffee: Slowly pour the cooled coffee over the ice in each glass. The coffee should flow over the condensed milk.
  6. Create Layers: Gently drizzle 2 tablespoons of evaporated milk over the back of a spoon onto the surface of each drink. The milk should float on top, creating beautiful two-tone layers.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Admire the beautiful layers (perfect for photos!), then stir well before drinking to mix all the delicious flavors together.

Notes

  • ESSENTIAL TIPS:
    - Use DARK roast coffee (French or Italian roast) for authentic flavor - light or medium roast won't taste right
    - Cardamom is NOT optional - this spice is what makes it taste authentically Thai, not just sweet coffee
    - The tiny pinch of salt is crucial - it cuts bitterness and enhances sweetness
    - Coffee MUST be completely cool before assembling, or the ice melts too fast and ruins the layers
    - For best results, use full-fat sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk - low-fat versions don't layer as well
  • CUSTOMIZATION:
    - Adjust sweetness by using more or less condensed milk (start with 2 tablespoons per glass if you prefer less sweet)
    - Can substitute regular whole milk for evaporated milk, but layers won't be as distinct
    - For a vegan version, use coconut condensed milk and coconut cream
  • MAKE AHEAD:
    - The brewed sweetened coffee base (without milk) can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
    - Assemble fresh glasses with ice and milk just before serving
  • AUTHENTIC TOUCH:
    - If you can find Pantai Oliang Powder at Asian grocery stores or Amazon, use it instead of regular coffee for the most authentic taste
    - Traditional Thai coffee is served in plastic bags with handles - try it for fun at your next party!