Bring water to about 80°C (175°F). Pour 240 ml hot water over the 2 tsp white tea in a heatproof vessel. Steep for 3–5 minutes depending on desired strength (3 minutes for very delicate, 5 minutes for fuller flavor). Do not boil the water to avoid bitterness.

Strain and cool

Strain tea into a heatproof container. Allow the brewed tea to cool for 8–10 minutes at room temperature, then place in the refrigerator or an ice bath to cool further until barely warm or chilled (about 10–15 minutes).

Combine tea and coconut liquids

In a measuring cup or small pitcher, combine the 120 ml unsweetened coconut milk with 120 ml cold water. If using coconut cream for extra richness, whisk the 1 tsp coconut cream into the milk mixture until smooth. Add 1 tsp vanilla extract and 1 tsp fresh lime juice if using; these are optional but brighten and round the coconut flavor.

Sweetener & Flavoring

Sweeten to taste

If using granulated sugar: dissolve 2 tsp sugar into 2–3 tbsp of the still-warm brewed tea (from the step above) by stirring until completely dissolved, then return this sweetened tea to the chilled batch. If using simple syrup, stir 2 tsp simple syrup directly into the chilled tea mixture. Taste and adjust: add up to another 1 tsp sweetener if you prefer sweeter.

Mix thoroughly so that flavorings (vanilla and lime, if used) and sweetener are evenly distributed before pouring over ice.

Assembly & Garnish

Assemble the iced drink

Fill a 16-oz (approx. 2 cup) serving glass with 1 cup ice. Pour the chilled, sweetened white tea into the glass, leaving a small gap at the top. Add the coconut milk + water mixture and gently stir once or twice to combine. The final volume should total ~16 oz (adjust ice slightly if necessary).

Finish and garnish

If desired, float a thin lime wheel on top and sprinkle 1 tsp toasted coconut flakes as garnish. Serve immediately with a straw.