Thai Coffee Recipe

Brew coffee

Place 4 tablespoons dark roast coffee grounds into a small saucepan or stovetop coffee pot. Add 2 cups cold water. Add the crushed cardamom pods and star anise if using. Bring water to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat and let simmer very gently for 4–5 minutes, stirring once to break the initial foam. Do not boil vigorously.

Remove from heat and let the coffee grounds steep for 2–3 minutes to develop flavor. If using a sieve/strainer, strain the coffee through a fine-mesh sieve or a coffee filter into a heatproof container to remove grounds and spices.

Taste the brewed coffee — it should be strong and full-bodied. If too weak, you can simmer the grounds an additional 1–2 minutes (watching closely to avoid bitterness).

Prepare milk mixture

In a separate measuring cup or small pitcher, combine 4 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk with 1 cup evaporated milk (or whole milk). Whisk or stir until smooth and fully combined. Adjust sweetness by adding up to 1 tablespoon extra condensed milk if you prefer sweeter Thai coffee.

If serving hot, gently warm the milk mixture in a small saucepan over low heat until just warm (do not boil). If serving iced, chill the milk mixture in the refrigerator or use it cold.

Assemble iced Thai coffee (recommended)

Fill two serving glasses with ice (about 1/2 cup ice per glass). Pour the strained hot coffee evenly into the glasses (about 1 cup coffee per glass). Slowly pour the milk-condensed milk mixture over the coffee so you get a layered look if desired. Stir before drinking. Taste and add up to 1 tablespoon additional condensed milk per glass if you want it sweeter. Garnish with a very light pinch (about 1/16–1/8 tsp) of freshly ground black pepper if you like an aromatic contrast.

Assemble hot Thai coffee

Divide the warm milk-condensed milk mixture between two cups. Pour the freshly brewed coffee over the milk mixture and stir to combine. Taste and add extra condensed milk if needed. Serve immediately.

Optional: For a frothier texture, vigorously shake the milk mixture in a sealed jar for 20–30 seconds before adding to coffee, or use a small handheld frother.