Step 1: Prepare the Tea Bags. Place two black tea bags into a measuring cup that can hold at least 2 cups of liquid, ensuring the tea bags are fully submerged.

Step 2: Heat the Milk. In a small saucepan, pour in 1½ cups of whole milk or dairy-free alternative. Heat over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until you see steam.

Step 3: Steep the Tea. Pour the steamed milk over the tea bags in the measuring cup, and let it steep for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Remove the Tea Bags. Remove the tea bags and squeeze them lightly. Add sweetener if desired and stir until dissolved.

Step 5: Cool the Mixture. Loosely cover the measuring cup with a towel and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Step 6: Refrigerate. Cover the measuring cup tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, until chilled.

Step 7: Serve Over Ice. Fill a tall glass with ice cubes and pour the chilled tea mixture over the ice.