One sip of Korean Strawberry Milk and you’ll see why this refreshing pink drink is gaining popularity all over the world. Bursting with sweet strawberry flavor, swirls of natural fruit syrup, and the creamy richness of whole milk—it’s as beautiful to look at as it is to drink.
Whether you grew up loving bottled strawberry milk or you’re discovering this iconic Korean café drink for the first time, this homemade version will steal your heart (and taste buds). The best part? You only need three simple ingredients.
PrintKorean Strawberry Milk: A Sweet, Creamy Taste of Korea with Just 3 Ingredients
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh strawberries, 16 oz. container
- 1/3 cup sugar, raw (turbinado), brown, or white granulated
- 32 oz Hiland Dairy Whole Milk
- ice cubes, optional
Instructions
Instructions
- Begin the strawberry puree by washing and drying the fresh strawberries. Remove the stems and slice, then roughly chop.
- Place the skillet on the stovetop over medium heat. Add the sugar, folding it into the chopped strawberries. Cook down until the consistency becomes syrupy, with softened chunks of strawberries remaining.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a storage container. Seal, then place in the fridge to chill for at least two hours.
- When ready to serve, use a spoon to scoop the strawberry puree into your glass. Use the back of the spoon to swirl the puree around the inside of the glass, then add ice cubes (if using). Pour the whole milk on top, and enjoy immediately.
Notes
If serving one glass at at time, place the remaining strawberry puree back in the fridge.
Keywords: Fresh strawberries, whole milk, ice cubes
What Is Korean Strawberry Milk?
Korean Strawberry Milk (딸기우유, ttalgi uyu) is a beloved beverage served in Korean cafés and convenience stores. Unlike the processed versions made with artificial flavors or powders, the homemade Korean version highlights fresh strawberries, sugar, and milk. The result? A fruity, refreshing, and perfectly sweet drink that’s enjoyed year-round, especially in the warmer months.
Unlike the pre-mixed versions in bottles or cartons, Korean-style strawberry milk is often served in clear glasses to show off the layers: fresh strawberry chunks or purée at the bottom, creamy white milk on top, and swirls of pink when you stir it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only 3 Ingredients! No preservatives, no artificial flavoring, and no fuss.
- Stunning presentation. This is Instagram-worthy and café-style at home.
- Customizable sweetness. Adjust sugar to your taste or substitute with a sweetener of your choice.
- Nutritious and filling. Thanks to the use of whole milk, it’s rich in protein and vitamins.
- Quick and easy to make. Only 15 minutes of prep and cooking!
What Is Korean Strawberry Milk Made Of?
Traditional Korean Strawberry Milk consists of:
- Fresh strawberries
- Sugar (white, brown, or raw)
- Whole milk
That’s it! You’ll heat the strawberries and sugar to create a naturally sweet, fruit-forward syrup. Once cooled, it’s swirled into cold milk and served over ice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Fresh strawberries (1 lb / about 16 oz): Choose ripe, red strawberries for the best natural flavor. Frozen strawberries can also be used, though the texture may be different.
- Sugar (1/3 cup): Any type of sugar will work. Brown sugar adds a hint of caramel-like depth.
- Whole Milk (32 oz): Use high-quality whole milk for creaminess. For dairy-free options, oat milk or almond milk are great substitutes.
How to Make Korean Strawberry Milk: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
- Wash, dry, and hull your strawberries.
- Chop them into small pieces—this ensures even cooking and easy sipping.
Step 2: Cook the Strawberry Mixture
- Add strawberries and sugar to a skillet over medium heat.
- Stir occasionally as it bubbles and begins to break down.
- Cook for about 10-12 minutes until it reaches a syrupy consistency with soft chunks.
- Remove from heat and cool completely in the refrigerator (at least 2 hours, or overnight).
🧠 Pro Tip: Cooking the strawberries enhances their natural sweetness and helps preserve their texture for a more satisfying sip.
Step 3: Assemble Your Drink
- Scoop 2-3 spoonfuls of cooled strawberry purée into the bottom of a tall glass.
- Swirl a bit along the sides for visual effect.
- Add a few ice cubes (optional, but great for hot days).
- Pour chilled whole milk on top.
- Stir and enjoy your beautifully marbled strawberry milk!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in a clear glass for the most visual impact.
- Top with fresh sliced strawberries for a café-style presentation.
- For extra indulgence, add a dollop of whipped cream on top!
Storage Tips
- Strawberry purée: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Mixed strawberry milk: Best enjoyed fresh. The milk can separate from the purée if stored too long after mixing.
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk?
Absolutely! While traditional Korean strawberry milk uses dairy milk, you can swap in any plant-based milk such as:
- Oat milk
- Almond milk
- Soy milk
- Coconut milk
Just note that taste and texture will vary slightly. For the richest non-dairy version, choose a barista-style or full-fat plant milk.
Is Korean Strawberry Milk Healthy?
Korean strawberry milk is more nutritious than many store-bought versions because it uses real fruit and fewer additives.
Benefits of Whole Milk:
- Calcium: Supports strong bones and teeth.
- Vitamin D: Helps with calcium absorption and immune support.
- Protein: Aids in muscle repair and satiety.
- Healthy fats: Supports vitamin absorption and adds to the rich texture.
A glass of this milk offers a tasty way to enjoy both fruit and dairy—especially great for kids, athletes, and anyone craving a sweet but nourishing treat.
Why Did They Get Rid of Strawberry Milk?
You might remember the days when strawberry milk was a lunchroom favorite. However, in some regions and school districts in the U.S., flavored milks like strawberry and chocolate were removed due to concerns over added sugars.
The good news? When you make Korean strawberry milk at home, you control the ingredients. No artificial flavors or excess sugar here—just real fruit and milk.
Strawberry Milk vs. Korean Strawberry Milk: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Strawberry Milk (US) | Korean Strawberry Milk |
|---|---|---|
| Flavoring | Artificial (powder or syrup) | Real strawberries |
| Sweetness | Very sweet | Naturally sweet with sugar control |
| Texture | Smooth, uniform | Chunky, layered with real fruit |
| Visual appeal | Pink all over | Swirled, marbled, café-style look |
| Served | Bottled/carton | Freshly made, served cold in glass |
How Koreans Enjoy Strawberry Milk
In South Korea, strawberry milk is not just a drink—it’s a seasonal favorite. Strawberry picking is a popular family activity during the long growing season (December to June), and many bring home baskets of sweet berries to use in drinks, jams, and desserts.
In Korean cafés, strawberry milk is more than just a drink—it’s an experience. Often served in charming glass bottles with fancy garnishes and cute straws, these seasonal versions are as Instagram-worthy as they are delicious.
Other Fun Ways to Use the Strawberry Purée
If you make extra strawberry syrup, don’t let it go to waste! Here are a few ideas:
- Add to smoothies for a natural sweetener.
- Spoon over pancakes or waffles as a fruity topping.
- Stir into yogurt or oatmeal.
- Swirl into lemonade for a strawberry twist.
What is Korean strawberry milk made of?
Korean strawberry milk is made with three simple ingredients: fresh strawberries, sugar, and whole milk. The strawberries are usually cooked down into a sweet purée and mixed with cold milk.
Is Korean strawberry milk healthy?
Yes, Korean strawberry milk can be a healthier option than store-bought versions since it’s made with real fruit and no artificial coloring. Using whole milk also provides essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D.
What does Korean strawberry milk taste like?
It tastes creamy, fruity, and naturally sweet. The flavor of fresh strawberries combined with full-fat milk gives it a rich and refreshing profile, perfect for summer.
Can I make Korean strawberry milk without cooking the strawberries?
Yes, you can mash fresh strawberries with sugar and let them sit for a few hours to release juices. However, cooking the mixture makes the flavor more concentrated and syrupy.
Final Thoughts: A Nostalgic Drink, Made Better
Korean Strawberry Milk is more than just a pretty drink—it’s a satisfying, nutritious, and simple way to enjoy strawberries and milk together. The best part? You get all the nostalgia of strawberry milk from childhood, but with a grown-up, homemade twist that’s bursting with real flavor.
Whether you’re looking to cool off in the summer or enjoy a sweet treat any time of year, this easy 3-ingredient recipe belongs in your rotation.