If you’re craving a dessert that is refreshing, sweet, and downright delightful, you will love this Strawberry Bingsu Recipe. This Korean shaved ice treat blends creamy frozen milk with juicy strawberries, a touch of sweetened condensed milk, and optional toppings to create a dessert that feels like a cool hug on a warm day. The fluffy texture of the shaved icy milk combined with the vibrant burst of fresh strawberries makes it such an unforgettable delight that you’ll want to keep making it all summer long.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Strawberry Bingsu Recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. Every component is essential, whether it’s lending creaminess, sweetness, or a fruity pop, all combining perfectly to make this dish stand out.
- Milk (2 cups): The base that freezes and shaves into that signature fluffy ice texture.
- Sweetened condensed milk (2 tablespoons plus more for drizzling): Adds rich sweetness and a creamy finish that is absolutely irresistible.
- Fresh strawberries (1 cup, chopped): Provides natural fruity sweetness and a beautiful splash of color.
- Sugar (1 tablespoon): Helps macerate the strawberries, enhancing their flavor and juiciness.
- Sweetened red bean paste (½ cup, optional): A traditional Korean topping that introduces a lovely earthy sweetness and texture contrast.
- Strawberry syrup or sauce (½ cup): Intensifies the strawberry flavor with a sweet, tangy drizzle.
- Strawberry ice cream or sorbet (¼ cup, optional): Adds that extra creamy, dreamy touch on top.
- Fresh mint leaves: A refreshing garnish that brightens up the entire dessert visually and aromatically.
How to Make Strawberry Bingsu Recipe
Step 1: Freeze the Milk Mixture
Begin by mixing 2 cups of milk with 2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk, then pour it into a freezer-safe container. Pop this into the freezer for at least six hours or overnight until it becomes a solid block. The condensed milk gives the ice a beautifully rich texture when frozen and shaved, so don’t skip it!
Step 2: Macerate the Strawberries
While the milk freezes, toss your chopped fresh strawberries with a tablespoon of sugar in a small bowl. Let them rest for about 10 to 15 minutes; this simple step draws out their natural juices and sweetens them up just enough to complement the icy base.
Step 3: Shave the Frozen Milk
Once the milk block is fully frozen, it’s time for the magic moment. Using a food processor, ice shaver, or even a fork, shave the milk ice until it’s light and fluffy, resembling freshly fallen snow. This fluffy texture is the hallmark of a great bingsu and makes every bite melt delightfully on your tongue.
Step 4: Assemble Your Strawberry Bingsu
Pile the shaved milky snow into a serving bowl, then generously top with your macerated strawberries. Pour over the strawberry syrup and, if you’re feeling adventurous, add dollops of sweetened red bean paste for that classic Korean touch. Plop a scoop of strawberry ice cream or sorbet on top if you want to go all out.
Step 5: Final Touches
Drizzle extra sweetened condensed milk over the top for added creaminess and finish with a few fresh mint leaves to brighten the flavors and appearance. Serve immediately because this dessert is best enjoyed right away before the ice melts.
How to Serve Strawberry Bingsu Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh mint leaves is a simple way to elevate the presentation and introduce a refreshing aroma that complements the sweetness of the strawberries and condensed milk. You can also sprinkle some toasted almonds or coconut flakes if you like a little crunch alongside the fluffy ice.
Side Dishes
Serve your Strawberry Bingsu alongside light snacks such as delicate rice cakes (tteok) or small fruit tarts to keep the dessert experience cohesive without overwhelming your palate. A cup of mild green tea or refreshing barley tea pairs perfectly to cleanse the palate between indulgent bites.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or take your Strawberry Bingsu Recipe to the next level, try layering the shaved ice with alternating layers of strawberries, syrup, and red bean paste in a clear parfait glass. Top it with edible flowers or sprinkle freeze-dried strawberries for a burst of color and crunch. Presentation can turn this treat from casual to celebration-worthy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Since bingsu is best savored right after preparation, leftovers don’t keep well once assembled, as the ice will melt and become watery. If you do have leftover frozen milk block before shaving, keep it tightly covered in the freezer for up to one week.
Freezing
You can prepare the frozen milk ice block ahead of time, which makes assembly much quicker when craving bingsu. Just be sure it stays wrapped or sealed to prevent freezer burn and unwanted odors.
Reheating
Bingsu is not a dish you want to reheat since it’s intended to be enjoyed cold and snowy. Instead, use leftover milk ice for another batch or as a delicious frozen treat to cool down on a hot day.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?
Absolutely! While this Strawberry Bingsu Recipe highlights the fresh flavor of strawberries, you can easily swap them for mangoes, blueberries, or peaches for a different but equally refreshing twist.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
Yes! Substitute the regular milk with canned coconut milk and use dairy-free condensed milk alternatives to make a luscious vegan or dairy-free version that still captures the creamy, dreamy texture of traditional bingsu.
What is the best way to shave the frozen milk?
A food processor or an electric ice shaver works best to get light, fluffy shavings, but if you don’t have one on hand, you can use a fork to scrape the frozen block—just takes a bit more time and elbow grease.
Can I prepare this recipe for a larger group?
Definitely! The recipe scales nicely. Just multiply the ingredients and make enough frozen milk blocks ahead of time, giving you plenty of fluffy ice and toppings to share with friends or family.
What makes this Strawberry Bingsu Recipe different from regular shaved ice?
This bingsu uses shaved frozen milk rather than plain ice, giving it a creamier texture and richer taste that melts smoothly in your mouth. The addition of condensed milk and fresh fruit elevates it above standard shaved ice treats.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Strawberry Bingsu Recipe—it’s light yet indulgent, easy enough for a quick treat, but impressive enough to serve to guests. If you’ve never tried making bingsu at home, this recipe is a wonderful place to start. Gather your ingredients, get the milk frozen, and prepare to enjoy one of the most refreshing and delicious desserts you can make in your own kitchen. Your taste buds will thank you!
