Paul Kushner
The Thai Tea Cocktail is a bold, creamy drink that puts a grown-up spin on a classic favorite. With the rich, spiced flavor of Thai tea as the base, this cocktail brings in a smooth splash of vodka and the subtle sweetness of velvet falernum. It’s strong, slightly sweet, and full of warm, comforting notes like clove and vanilla. This drink is perfect for when you want something with a little more depth but still easy to sip. Whether you’re winding down or starting the night, the Thai Tea Cocktail brings a cozy, laid-back feel to the glass.
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Tasting Notes
This Thai Tea Cocktail is smooth, slightly spiced, and creamy with a citrus twist. Thai tea brings its classic mix of black tea, vanilla, and subtle spices, while velvet falernum adds notes of clove, lime, and almond. Vodka gives it strength without changing the flavor. The result is a mellow drink that’s lightly sweet, earthy, and easy to sip, with just a hint of warmth and spice.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a shaker, jigger, and a strainer. A bar spoon is helpful if you prefer to stir instead of shake. Use a rocks or old-fashioned glass with fresh ice for serving. Garnish with a lime wheel on the rim or floated on top for a simple, citrusy finish.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 0.5 oz velvet falernum
- 3 oz Thai tea (brewed and chilled)
- Garnish: lime wheel
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add vodka, velvet falernum, and chilled Thai tea.
- Shake for about 10–15 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish with a lime wheel.
Pro Tips
- Use strong-brewed Thai tea for the best flavor make it ahead and chill it before mixing.
- Don’t overdo the falernum it’s flavorful and just 0.5 oz is enough.
- Shake well to chill and blend everything smoothly.
- For an extra creamy version, you can add a splash of milk or coconut milk.
- Chill your glass for a more polished finish.
When to Serve
This Thai Tea Cocktail is great for evening sipping, laid-back parties, or as a unique signature cocktail at a dinner with bold flavors. It pairs well with spicy or savory foods and makes a fun alternative to more common tea-based cocktails. Serve it when you want something a little different but still easy to enjoy.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Choose a clean vodka like Tito’s, Smirnoff, or Absolut.
- For velvet falernum, John D. Taylor’s is the go-to.
- Brew your own Thai tea using loose leaves or a Thai tea mix like Pantai, and let it cool fully before using.
- For garnish, use a fresh lime slice or wheel thinly cut for best appearance.
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 0.5 oz velvet falernum
- 3 oz Thai tea brewed and chilled
- Garnish: lime wheel
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add vodka, velvet falernum, and chilled Thai tea.
- Shake for about 10–15 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish with a lime wheel.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Sweeten your Thai tea slightly when brewing if you prefer a smoother finish.
- Want a creamier version? Add a splash of coconut milk or half & half.
- Velvet falernum brings clove, lime, and almond notes—go light if you want the tea to shine more.
