Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Mocktailnon_alcoholic6 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Moderatelayered drink
Why: 6 ingredients, layered drink, uses cream
Best for: After Dinner, Dessert
Ingredients
ModifierSweetenerMixerDairy / textureHerb / spice
- 6 tblsp groundCoffeeModifier
- 1/4 tspCorianderHerb / spice
- 4-5 whole greenCardamomHerb / spice
- to tasteSugarSweetener
- to tasteWhipping CreamDairy / texture
- as neededIceMixer
How to Make It
- Place the coffee and spices in the filter cone of your coffee maker.
- Brew coffee as usual, let it cool.
- In a tall glass, dissolve 1 or 2 teaspoons of sugar in an ounce of the coffee (it's easier to dissolve than if you put it right over ice).
- Add 5-6 ice cubes and pour coffee to within about 1 inch of the top of the glass.
- Rest a spoon on top of the coffee and slowly pour whipping cream into the spoon.
- This will make the cream float on top of the coffee rather than dispersing into it right away.
Best For
Diet & Lifestyle
KetoLow-CarbLow-SugarVegan
Make it your way
Adjust this drink
Make it more grown-upAdd complexity with citrus peel, herbs, tea, spice, ginger, tonic-style bitterness or a sharper garnish.
Balance sweetnessIf it tastes too sweet, add acidity. If it tastes too sharp, add fruit, syrup or a softer mixer.
Make it party-readyUse a chilled glass, garnish, bubbles and plenty of ice so the drink feels deliberate.Keep it alcohol-freeExplore more zero-ABV drink ideas.Swap notes
Milk and creamMilk, cream and creamy ingredients change body, texture and sweetness perception. They are not neutral swaps. With citrus, add slowly and watch for curdling or texture changes.SweetenerSimple syrup is neutral; honey adds floral warmth; agave is lighter and less cloying; grenadine adds pomegranate colour and fruit sweetness. Sweeteners vary in intensity — start with less than you think you need, then taste. Always rebalance with a little citrus if the drink feels flat after swapping.HerbsHerbs change aroma significantly. Mint is cool and fresh; basil is sweeter and peppery; rosemary is resinous and piney; thyme is earthy. Use less than you think you need when swapping — herb intensity varies by freshness and how hard you muddle or bruise them.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a Thai Coffee?
- The Thai Coffee is a non-alcoholic cocktail made with 6 ingredients, traditionally served in a Highball Glass. It is a non-alcoholic drink. A standard serving contains approximately 137 calories.
- What does a Thai Coffee taste like?
- Thai Coffee has a flavour profile featuring Spice, Sugar, Sweet, Coffee. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a Thai Coffee?
- Thai Coffee is versatile — it pairs well with light snacks, seafood and mild cheeses. The best match depends on the dominant flavour in the specific recipe.
- How strong is a Thai Coffee?
- The Thai Coffee is alcohol-free. A standard serving contains approximately 137 calories. Calorie content varies based on the juices, syrups and mixers used.
- When is a Thai Coffee typically served?
- Thai Coffee is a popular choice for After Dinner, Dessert, Low / No Alcohol. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a Thai Coffee?
- If you enjoy Thai Coffee, explore other mocktails with a similar flavour profile using the filters on the mocktails page. Many classic cocktails also have non-alcoholic adaptations that share the same flavour balance.
- Can I make a Thai Coffee at home?
- Yes. The Thai Coffee uses 6 ingredients, making it more involved to prepare at home. You will need a Highball Glass. Use fresh juices and quality syrups for the best result.
- What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
- Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare mocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
- How do I use sensory profiles to find mocktails I like?
- Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of Thai Coffee with other mocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.

