Make creamy, cafe-style Korean strawberry milk at home using fresh strawberries. This easy recipe focuses on creating a real strawberry syrup base for a naturally sweet and refreshing pink drink, ready fast.
Author:sarahthompson
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:10 min
Total Time:20 min
Yield:2 servings 1x
Category:Beverage
Method:Stovetop (Syrup)
Cuisine:Korean Inspired
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon water
2 cups cold milk (dairy or non-dairy for a vegan option)
Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Strawberry Syrup: Combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and water in a small saucepan.
Cook the syrup over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the strawberries begin to break down, about 8 to 10 minutes. You want the mixture to thicken slightly and become jammy.
Mash the strawberries gently with a spoon or potato masher while cooking to release more juice and create a puree consistency.
Remove the syrup from the heat and let it cool completely. You can speed this up by placing the saucepan in an ice bath.
Assemble the Strawberry Milk: In a tall glass, spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of the cooled strawberry syrup into the bottom.
Add ice cubes if you are using them.
Slowly pour 1 cup of cold milk over the syrup and ice. Do not stir immediately to achieve the layered, cafe-style look.
Serve immediately. Stir before drinking to combine the syrup and milk for the best flavor.
Notes
For a richer, more authentic Korean strawberry milk flavor, use whole milk or a creamy non-dairy alternative like oat milk.
If you prefer a smoother drink without fruit chunks, strain the cooled syrup through a fine-mesh sieve before assembling.
This homemade strawberry syrup keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.