There’s something enchanting about the fusion of flavors that Thai milk tea brings to the table. The first time I savored the silky richness of Thai Milk Tea Crème Caramel, it felt like a delightful surprise found in an unexpected bite. This recipe effortlessly marries the comforting notes of caramel with the aromatic essence of Thai tea, creating an exquisite dessert that feels both indulgent and satisfying.
As I explored new ways to transform my favorite beverage into a luscious treat, I discovered a pudding that perfectly captivated the essence of this beloved drink. With its creamy texture and luxurious caramel layer, this dessert is not just a visually stunning centerpiece; it’s also an easy crowd-pleaser that brings a touch of elegance to any gathering. Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or hosting friends, this velvety pudding is sure to impress while being surprisingly simple to whip up.
Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s about to take your dessert game to the next level!
Why is Thai Milk Tea Crème Caramel so special?
Indulgent and silky, this dessert transforms the beloved Thai milk tea into a luxurious treat. Simple steps make it easy to create, even for novice chefs. Versatile enough to shine at dinner parties or casual nights in, it’s a crowd favorite. Aromatic flavors blend perfectly with caramel, satisfying all your cravings. This delightful pudding is a unique way to elevate familiar ingredients into an extraordinary experience!
Thai Milk Tea Crème Caramel Ingredients
Unlock the secrets behind this indulgent dessert!
For the Caramel
- 80g sugar – use superfine sugar for a smoother caramel texture.
- 2 tbsp room temp water – ensures the sugar dissolves evenly and quickly.
- 2 tbsp hot water – adds moisture to the caramel and stops cooking.
For the Pudding Mixture
- 2 large eggs, room temp – helps the custard to set perfectly in the pudding.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
- 400g full fat milk – provides creaminess; you can substitute with whole milk.
- 130g evaporated milk – adds richness; swap with cream for extra decadence.
- 76g condensed milk – sweetens and thickens the pudding beautifully.
- 40g hot water – helps to incorporate the Thai milk tea packets smoothly.
- 2 Thai milk tea packets (or more) – choose a premium brand for the best flavor infusion.
Embrace the simplicity and elegance of making this delectable Thai Milk Tea Crème Caramel—a dessert that promises to delight and impress!
How to Make Thai Milk Tea Crème Caramel
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Prepare the caramel. In a saucepan, combine 80g of sugar and 2 tbsp of room temperature water. Heat over medium until the mixture turns a golden brown, stirring gently to prevent burning.
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Add hot water. Carefully remove the caramel from the heat and stir in 2 tbsp of hot water. Be cautious as it may bubble up—this will create a smooth texture for your caramel.
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Beat the eggs. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 large room-temperature eggs and add 1 tsp of vanilla extract. This mixture will add richness and flavor to your pudding.
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Combine the milk ingredients. In another saucepan, mix 400g of full fat milk, 130g of evaporated milk, and 76g of condensed milk over low heat. Stir until everything is thoroughly combined and warmed through, making sure not to let it boil.
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Incorporate egg mixture. Gradually add the egg and vanilla mixture to the warm milk, stirring continuously until completely blended. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth custard.
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Infuse with Thai tea. Stir in 40g of hot water and the contents of 2 Thai milk tea packets. Keep blending until well mixed, letting the flavors infuse together.
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Assemble the dessert. Pour the caramel into the bottom of your serving dishes, then gently pour the pudding mixture over the caramel layer. This will create a delightful surprise when served.
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Steam or bake. Choose your preferred cooking method—steam or bake the pudding until it’s set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This usually takes about 25-30 minutes.
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for an added crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Thai Milk Tea Crème Caramel
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Caramel Perfection: Make sure to stir gently while heating the sugar to prevent burning. If it hardens, you can reheat with a splash of water.
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Room Temperature Eggs: Using eggs at room temperature helps create a smoother pudding, preventing curdling when added to hot milk.
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Infusion Time: Allow the Thai milk tea to steep longer for a stronger flavor; taste and adjust based on your preference for depth in the pudding.
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Check Doneness: When baking or steaming, ensure the pudding is set by checking for a clean toothpick insert. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture.
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Presentation Matters: Let it cool in the fridge before serving to enhance the silky texture and make it easier to remove from molds. Enjoy your Thai Milk Tea Crème Caramel!
Make Ahead Options
These Thai Milk Tea Crème Caramel puddings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the caramel and the pudding mixture up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator to maintain their unique textures. Start by making the caramel and cooling it before pouring it into your serving dishes. Prepare the pudding mixture, allowing it to cool completely, then cover it tightly. When you’re ready to indulge, simply pour the pudding over the chilled caramel and steam or bake as directed until set. This way, you’ll have a decadent dessert waiting for you, just as delicious as if made fresh!
Thai Milk Tea Crème Caramel Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this delightful dessert your own!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute full-fat milk and evaporated milk with coconut milk for a rich, lactose-free twist that adds a tropical flair.
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Sweetener Swap: Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tea’s flavor profile.
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More Tea: Add an extra Thai milk tea packet for a stronger flavor, intensifying that aromatic essence in every bite.
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Chocolate Delight: Incorporate 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the pudding mix for a delightful chocolate version that’s indulgent and unique!
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cardamom or cinnamon for a fragrant warm spice that complements the tea’s rich character beautifully.
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Nutty Flavor: Top with crushed pistachios or almonds for a crunchy texture contrast that enhances the pudding’s creamy layers.
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Fruity Touch: Add a layer of fresh mango puree before pouring in the pudding; the sweet and tart fruit will brighten the dish superbly.
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Vegan-Friendly: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg) and use plant-based milk to create a completely vegan version!
Let your imagination run wild and tailor this recipe to delight your taste buds further!
How to Store and Freeze Thai Milk Tea Crème Caramel
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps your Thai Milk Tea Crème Caramel fresh and creamy.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the pudding for up to 2 months. Use a freezer-safe container and cover it tightly to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen pudding, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently in the microwave or steam to restore its silky texture before serving.
Serving: Always check the texture after freezing; if it becomes a bit firm, a light reheat will help bring back its original creamy consistency.
What to Serve with Thai Milk Tea Crème Caramel?
Indulging in a silky, sweet dessert is always delightful, but what should you pair with this luscious pudding for a complete experience?
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Fresh Berries: The tartness of raspberries or strawberries cuts through the sweetness, adding a refreshing contrast. Their vibrant colors also make for an eye-catching presentation!
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Coconut Sticky Rice: The chewy texture complements the smooth pudding while enhancing the Thai flavors; it’s a comforting classic that never disappoints. Serve warm to create an inviting contrast.
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Green Tea: A warm cup of green tea’s earthy notes balances the sweet dessert and offers a soothing end to your meal. The gentle bitterness contrasts elegantly with the richness of the crème caramel.
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Pandan Cake: Light and airy, this subtly sweet cake adds a unique flavor dimension that pairs beautifully with the creamy pudding, allowing every bite to feel special.
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Mango Sorbet: The fruity, icy nature of mango sorbet refreshes the palate after the rich pudding, creating a delightful harmony of textures and temperatures.
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Thai Iced Tea: For an authentic pairing, sip on traditional Thai iced tea, its flavors echoing those in the dessert while providing a cool refreshment.
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Toasted Sesame Cookies: Crunchy and nutty, these cookies offer an irresistible textural contrast, enhancing the overall experience as you savor each element together.
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Almond Milkshake: Creamy and subtly sweet, a chilled almond milkshake provides a calming counterpoint to the decadent dessert, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Delight in the variety of options that enhance your experience of Thai Milk Tea Crème Caramel—elevating your dessert table has never been so easy!
Thai Milk Tea Crème Caramel Recipe FAQs
What type of Thai milk tea should I use?
Absolutely! Using a higher-quality Thai milk tea allows the rich flavors to shine through in your pudding. Look for brands that specify they’re made with black tea and spices; they usually provide a deeper flavor profile. You can also use more tea packets if you want extra strength!
How long can I store the pudding in the fridge?
You can keep your Thai Milk Tea Crème Caramel in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply enjoy it cold or gently reheat for a few seconds in the microwave if you prefer it warm.
Can I freeze the pudding?
Very much so! The pudding can be frozen for up to 2 months. To do this, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and cover it tightly. This step helps to avoid the formation of ice crystals. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw overnight in the fridge.
What should I do if the caramel hardens?
If your caramel hardens, don’t worry! Simply return it to low heat, adding a small splash of water while stirring until it becomes smooth again. This essential technique ensures your caramel remains silky and pourable when ready to layer with the pudding.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Indeed! If you’re serving this dessert to guests with dietary restrictions, consider using lactose-free milk options for a dairy-free version. Additionally, always check the specific brands of Thai milk tea and condensed milk for potential allergens, especially if someone has allergies to certain additives.
How do I know when my pudding is set?
Very! To ensure your pudding is set after steaming or baking, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, your Thai Milk Tea Crème Caramel is ready! This usually takes about 25-30 minutes depending on your method. Too much time can create a rubbery texture, so keep an eye on it!
Irresistible Thai Milk Tea Crème Caramel to Delight Your Tastebuds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan, combine 80g of sugar and 2 tbsp of room temperature water. Heat over medium until the mixture turns a golden brown, stirring gently to prevent burning.
- Carefully remove the caramel from the heat and stir in 2 tbsp of hot water. Be cautious as it may bubble up.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 large room-temperature eggs and add 1 tsp of vanilla extract.
- In another saucepan, mix 400g of full fat milk, 130g of evaporated milk, and 76g of condensed milk over low heat.
- Gradually add the egg and vanilla mixture to the warm milk, stirring continuously until completely blended.
- Stir in 40g of hot water and the contents of 2 Thai milk tea packets.
- Pour the caramel into the bottom of your serving dishes, then gently pour the pudding mixture over the caramel layer.
- Choose your preferred cooking method—steam or bake the pudding until it’s set and a toothpick comes out clean.