Korean strawberry milk is a sweet, refreshing cafe-style drink made with juicy strawberries, plant-based milk, and a small squeeze of lemon. I like how it tastes creamy, fruity, and fresh without needing dairy.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 pound strawberries, finely diced
¼ cup cane sugar or light brown sugar
1 squeeze fresh lemon juice
2 to 3 cups unsweetened non-dairy milk
Ice cubes
Directions
I place ¾ cup diced strawberries in a bowl with 1 tablespoon sugar, then stir and let them sit until they release their juices.
I add the remaining strawberries to a saucepan with the rest of the sugar and lemon juice.
Then I bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer it for 10 minutes, stirring often, until it becomes thick and syrupy.
I chill the strawberry syrup until it is cold.
For each glass, I add 2 to 3 tablespoons strawberry syrup, ¾ cup non-dairy milk, ice, and 1 tablespoon macerated strawberries.
I stir everything well and serve it cold.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes 3 servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Calories: 135 kcal per serving
Variations
I sometimes use oat milk for a creamy texture, almond milk for a lighter taste, or coconut milk for a richer flavor. I can also add a little vanilla extract for extra sweetness or blend part of the drink for a smoother strawberry milk.
Storage/Reheating
I store the strawberry syrup and macerated strawberries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. And I keep the milk separate until serving so the drink tastes fresh. I do not reheat this drink because it is best served cold.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, I can use frozen strawberries, but I thaw them first and drain any extra liquid if needed.
What non-dairy milk works best?
I like oat milk because it is creamy, but almond, soy, or coconut milk also works well.
Can I make this less sweet?
Yes, I can reduce the sugar slightly or use an unsweetened plant-based milk.
Can I blend the drink?
Yes, I can blend the syrup, milk, and ice for a smoother strawberry milk.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, I prepare the strawberry syrup ahead of time and assemble the drink right before serving.
Conclusion
Korean strawberry milk is a simple, refreshing drink that feels special without being difficult. I love making it with fresh strawberries, chilled plant-based milk, and ice for a sweet cafe-style treat at home.
📖 Recipe:
Print
Korean Strawberry Milk
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Korean strawberry milk is a sweet, refreshing cafe-style drink made with fresh strawberries, plant-based milk, and a touch of lemon juice. This creamy and fruity beverage is dairy-free, easy to make, and perfect served ice cold.
Ingredients
1 pound strawberries, finely diced
1/4 cup cane sugar or light brown sugar
1 squeeze fresh lemon juice
2 to 3 cups unsweetened non-dairy milk
Ice cubes
Instructions
- Place 3/4 cup diced strawberries in a bowl with 1 tablespoon sugar. Stir well and let sit until the strawberries release their juices.
- Add the remaining strawberries to a saucepan with the remaining sugar and lemon juice.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring often, until thick and syrupy.
- Remove from heat and chill the strawberry syrup until cold.
- To assemble each drink, add 2 to 3 tablespoons strawberry syrup, 3/4 cup non-dairy milk, ice cubes, and 1 tablespoon macerated strawberries to a glass.
- Stir well and serve immediately while cold.
Notes
Oat milk creates a creamier texture, while almond milk gives a lighter flavor.
Coconut milk adds a richer and slightly tropical taste.
Add a splash of vanilla extract for extra sweetness and aroma.
Blend the syrup, milk, and ice for a smoother version of the drink.
Store the strawberry syrup and macerated strawberries separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Drink
- Method: Simmer
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 135 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 85 mg
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
