Make this creamy, cafe-style Korean strawberry milk at home using a simple, fresh strawberry syrup. This recipe uses real fruit for a naturally sweet and refreshing drink that is better than store-bought options.
Author:katereilly
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:25 min
Yield:2 servings 1x
Category:Beverage
Method:Stovetop Simmering
Cuisine:Korean Inspired
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup water
2 cups cold milk (dairy or non-dairy)
Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions
Combine the quartered strawberries, sugar, and water in a small saucepan.
Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the strawberries begin to break down, about 5 to 7 minutes. This creates your fresh strawberry syrup.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for another 5 minutes until the syrup thickens slightly. You can gently mash the strawberries with a spoon for a smoother texture, or leave them chunky.
Remove the syrup from the heat and let it cool completely. You can speed this up by placing the saucepan in an ice bath.
To assemble the Korean strawberry milk, place 2 to 3 tablespoons of the cooled strawberry syrup into the bottom of a tall glass.
Add ice cubes if you want a chilled drink.
Slowly pour 1 cup of cold milk over the syrup. Do not stir immediately; allow the syrup and milk to layer for the cafe look.
Serve immediately, encouraging the drinker to stir before sipping for the best flavor combination.
Notes
For a thicker, richer drink, use condensed milk instead of granulated sugar in the syrup, or use a mix of both.
This recipe works well with coconut milk or almond milk if you prefer a non-dairy option.
You can make the strawberry syrup ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.