Korean shaved ice, known as bingsu, is a beloved dessert that combines fluffy shaved ice with a variety of toppings like sweetened red beans, fresh fruits, and condensed milk. Originating from China, it evolved in Korea over time, with more ingredients and toppings being added. This particular recipe simplifies the process by using frozen condensed milk cubes to create a smoother, fluffier ice texture. It’s an easy-to-make and customizable dessert you can enjoy at home.
In a large pitcher or measuring cup, whisk together the whole milk and sweetened condensed milk until smooth and fully combined.
Pour the mixture into ice cube trays and freeze for at least 6 hours, or until solid.
About an hour before serving, place two bowls in the freezer to chill them.
Assemble the Bingsu: 4. Once the ice cubes are frozen, unmold them and shave them using an ice shaver, food processor, or blender until the texture resembles fluffy snow. 5. Spread 1/4 cup of sweetened red beans at the bottom of each chilled bowl. 6. Divide the shaved ice between the bowls, shaping it into a dome or cone. 7. Drizzle half of the sweetened condensed milk over each serving, then top with mango cubes and mochi pieces. 8. Finally, sprinkle the cornflakes over the top for an added crunch and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields 2 to 3 servings. Prep Time: 16 minutes Freeze Time: 8 hours Total Time: 8 hours 16 minutes
Variations
Feel free to experiment with the flavors of the ice! Try swapping a cup of whole milk with fruit purée, like mango or strawberry, or whisk in some matcha powder for a green tea flavor. For a chocolate twist, add chocolate syrup to the milk mixture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, substitute coconut milk for the whole milk and use agave syrup or honey in place of condensed milk. Customize the toppings as well, adding fresh fruit, nuts, ice cream, or even syrups to make it your own.
Storage/Reheating
Once the ice is shaved, bingsu doesn’t store well, as it will melt and form a solid block again. However, you can prepare and freeze the milk ice cubes in advance. Just store them in freezer-safe bags, and when you’re ready to serve, shave the ice and assemble the dessert fresh.
FAQs
What If I Don’t Have an Ice Shaver?
If you don’t have an ice shaver, you can use a blender or food processor with a grating attachment. For the best texture, process the ice cubes in small batches.
Can I Make This Dessert Ahead of Time?
You can freeze the milk cubes ahead of time, but I recommend assembling the bingsu just before serving to keep the shaved ice fluffy and avoid melting.
What If I Can’t Find Sweetened Red Beans?
If sweetened red beans are hard to find, you can use canned red bean paste or simply skip the red beans and focus on other toppings like fruit and syrups.
Can I Use Frozen Fruit?
Yes! You can use frozen fruit, like thawed mango or berries. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture so it doesn’t affect the texture of the shaved ice.
How Can I Make It More Indulgent?
To add a richer touch, try adding a scoop of ice cream or drizzling chocolate syrup on top. You can also sprinkle toasted nuts or cookie crumbs for extra crunch.
Conclusion
Korean shaved ice (bingsu) is a perfect way to cool off while enjoying a light, refreshing dessert. It’s simple to prepare, endlessly customizable, and a fun way to experiment with different flavors and textures. Whether you stick with the classic red beans and mochi or get creative with fresh fruit and toppings, bingsu is always a delightful treat. Enjoy it as a sweet indulgence or a summer refresher!
Korean Shaved Ice (Bingsu) is a refreshing, fluffy dessert made from shaved milk ice and topped with sweet red beans, fruit, mochi, and condensed milk. This easy version uses frozen condensed milk cubes to achieve the classic creamy-snow texture of café-style bingsu at home. It’s light, customizable, and perfect for cooling off on a warm day.
Prepare the Ice: In a large pitcher, whisk together milk and sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Pour the mixture into ice cube trays and freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight.
Chill the Bowls: About an hour before serving, place two serving bowls in the freezer to keep the bingsu cold while assembling.
Shave the Ice: Once frozen, unmold the milk cubes and shave them using an ice shaver, food processor, or blender until fluffy and snow-like.
Assemble the Bingsu: Spread sweetened red beans at the bottom of each chilled bowl. Add the shaved ice, forming a dome shape. Drizzle sweetened condensed milk over the top, then add mango cubes, mochi pieces, and corn flakes.
Serve Immediately: Enjoy the bingsu right away before it melts for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
For dairy-free bingsu, use coconut milk and sweeten with honey or agave instead of condensed milk.
Mix fruit purée or matcha powder into the milk mixture for flavored ice.
Top with ice cream, nuts, or syrups for a café-style twist.
Bingsu is best enjoyed fresh—once melted, the texture can’t be restored.
