As a coffee and tea enthusiast, I’ve always looked for creative and exciting ways to enjoy my favorite beverages. So, you can imagine my excitement when I stumbled upon the idea of combining the two into a delightful concoction known as coffee milk tea. It is an exquisite blend of flavors and combines the essence of both worlds: coffee’s rich, aromatic depth and tea’s mild, delicate taste.
This guide to making coffee milk tea is ideal for you if you’re curious about sipping a cool and comforting drink. In the following paragraphs, I’ll share a delicious and easy recipe that’s ideal for anyone experimenting with their caffeine fix.
So, grab your favorite mug, and let’s start on this enchanting journey to create the ultimate beverage experience.
Table of Contents
The History of Coffee Milk Tea
Coffee milk tea, also known as “yuenyeung” or “kopi cham,” has its roots in Hong Kong and Malaysia. In these countries, this unique beverage has been enjoyed for decades as a delicious and energizing pick-me-up. Over time, this drink has gained popularity worldwide, with many variations emerging to cater to different tastes.
Variations on Coffee Milk Tea
This drink has several variations, and each country or region has its unique twist. From adding boba or tapioca pearls to using different types of teas and coffee blends, coffee milk tea has become a versatile and customizable drink that suits anyone’s taste preferences. Here are the 3 most popular variations of coffee, tea milk drink.
1. Iced Coffee Milk Tea Latte
For a frothy, creamy version of the Coffee Milk Tea, blend all ingredients with ice in a blender until smooth. Pour into a glass and enjoy an Iced Coffee Milk Tea Latte!
2. Coffee Milk Tea with Boba
If you’re a fan of bubble tea, add some cooked tapioca pearls (boba) to your Coffee Milk Tea for a fun and chewy twist! Simply follow the package instructions to prepare the boba, then add them to the bottom of your glass before pouring the Coffee Milk Tea mixture over the top.
3. Dirty Chai Coffee Milk Tea
To add a spicy kick to your Coffee Milk Tea, make it a dirty chai. This is done by adding a teaspoon of chai spice mix or chai concentrate to the tea and coffee mixture. The warming spices will perfectly complement the flavors of coffee and tea.
How to Make Coffee Milk Tea: 4 Easy Steps
To create this unique Coffee Milk Tea, gather the following ingredients:
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups of water
- 2 tablespoons of black tea leaves (Assam or Ceylon tea recommended)
- 1/4 cup of freshly brewed strong coffee (espresso or dark roast)
- 1/4 cup of sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup of whole milk or half-and-half
- 1-2 tablespoons of sugar (adjust according to your preference)
- Ice cubes
Equipment Needed
- Tea kettle or pot
- Coffee maker or espresso machine
- Measuring cups
- Mixing spoon
- Tall glass
Brewing Instructions for the Perfect Coffee Milk Tea
Step 1: Brewing the Tea
- Boil 2 cups of water in a pot or kettle.
- Once the water boils, add the black tea leaves.
- Reduce the heat and let the tea steep for 3-4 minutes, depending on the desired strength.
- After steeping, strain the tea leaves and set the brewed tea aside.
Step 2: Brewing the Coffee
- Prepare your preferred strong coffee or espresso using your favorite brewing method (e.g., French press, espresso machine, or drip coffee maker).
- Measure out 1/4 cup of freshly brewed coffee and set it aside.
Step 3: Combining Tea, Coffee, and Milk
- In a saucepan, combine the brewed tea and coffee.
- Add sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, half-and-half, and sugar to the mixture.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is well combined. Be careful not to let it boil.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat.
Step 4: Serve Your Coffee Milk Tea
- Fill glasses with ice cubes.
- Pour the coffee-milk tea mixture over the ice.
- Stir well, and enjoy your delicious, refreshing drink!
Tips for the Perfect Coffee Milk Tea
- Use half-and-half instead of whole milk for a richer, creamier texture.
- You can experiment with different coffee beans and roasts to find the correct flavor balance between coffee and tea.
- To enhance the presentation, garnish your drink with a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream on top.
- If you prefer a more robust coffee flavor, you can increase the amount of coffee or use a more concentrated brew like a double espresso shot.
- Add a few fresh mint leaves or a splash of flavored syrup like vanilla or hazelnut to the mixture for a refreshing twist.
Serving Suggestions
Coffee milk tea is a refreshing drink that can be enjoyed independently or paired with your favorite snacks or desserts. Here are a few serving suggestions to try:
- Serve the drink with crispy toast or buttery croissants for a classic Hong Kong-style breakfast.
- Pair the drink with Asian snacks like egg tarts, pineapple buns, or sesame balls.
- Enjoy the drink as a midday pick-me-up or an after-dinner treat.
- Serve the drink at a brunch or afternoon tea party for a unique twist on traditional beverages.
Customizing Your Coffee Milk Tea
Coffee milk tea is a versatile drink that can be customized to your preference. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spicy twist.
- Use almond or coconut milk instead of condensed milk for a dairy-free version.
- Top the drink with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for a decadent treat.
- Add flavored syrup, such as vanilla or caramel, for extra sweetness.
- Serve the drink hot instead of iced for a cozy winter treat.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftover Coffee Milk Tea, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy it hot:
- Gently reheat the mixture on the stovetop or microwave until warm.
- Be careful not to let it boil, which can curl the milk.
- If you prefer it cold, pour it over ice and enjoy.
Health Benefits Of Coffee, Milk Tea
While it is not a health drink, but it has some potential health benefits. Black tea is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage. Coffee has reduced the risk of Parkinson’s disease, type 2 diabetes, and liver cancer. However, the added condensed milk can be high in sugar and calories, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation.
Final Thoughts:
Learning to make coffee milk tea has been a delightful adventure that has opened up a whole new world of flavor combinations for me. This delicious and easy recipe perfectly combines your love for coffee and tea into one satisfying, creamy beverage. With our step-by-step guide, frequently asked questions and variation suggestions, you’ll have everything you need to create the right Coffee Milk Tea to suit your tastes. So go ahead and indulge in this delightful fusion of flavors—it’s time to enjoy the essence of both worlds!
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different tea type for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use other black tea types, such as Earl Grey or Darjeeling. However, Assam and Ceylon teas are recommended for their robust flavors, which complement coffee.
Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk or half-and-half with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. For a sweetened condensed milk substitute, you can use coconut condensed milk or make dairy-free sweetened condensed milk using your preferred plant-based milk and sweetener.
Q: How can I adjust the Coffee Milk Tea sweetness level?
A: Feel free to adjust the sugar content to your liking. You can use more or less sugar or replace it with other sweeteners like honey, agave syrup, or your favorite sugar substitute.
Q: Can I use instant coffee to make this drink?
A: Yes, instant coffee is a quick and convenient option. However, the flavor might not be as rich and robust as brewed coffee.
Q: How long does this drink last in the refrigerator?
A: This drink can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Q: Can I use decaffeinated grounds for this drink?
A: Yes, use decaffeinated coffee and tea to create a caffeine-free coffee milk tea.