Korean Desserts That Are Both Sweet and Refreshing

Korean cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors and unique ingredients, and this extends to its desserts as well. If you’re looking for sweet treats that also provide a refreshing twist, you’re in for a treat! Here are some popular Korean desserts that are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while keeping things light and refreshing.

Bingsu (빙수)
Bingsu is a beloved Korean shaved ice dessert that has gained popularity worldwide. Traditionally made with finely shaved ice, it is topped with various ingredients such as red bean paste, fresh fruits, and sweetened condensed milk. One of the most popular variations is fruit bingsu, which combines ripe strawberries, mangoes, or blueberries, making it a deliciously refreshing treat on a hot day.

Mochi Ice Cream (모찌 아이스크림)
This Japanese-inspired dessert has a Korean twist! Mochi ice cream features a sweet rice cake outer layer, which is filled with creamy ice cream. It comes in a variety of flavors like green tea, red bean, or mango, offering a refreshing and chewy bite that’s perfect for dessert lovers who enjoy a blend of textures.

PPatbingsu (팥빙수)
A classic variation of bingsu, patbingsu includes sweetened red beans, which are a staple in many Korean sweets. The finely shaved ice is layered with a generous portion of red beans, fruits, and even a drizzle of syrup. This dessert not only satisfies your sweet cravings but also provides a unique combination of textures and flavors that are both sweet and refreshing.

Sikhye (식혜)
Sikhye is a traditional sweet rice drink that is often served as a dessert. Made from fermented sweet rice and barley malt, this beverage is not only refreshing but also has a slight fizz to it. It is typically garnished with pine nuts or the remnants of cooked rice, adding a delightful texture to the drink. Enjoy sikhye chilled for an uplifting and sweet experience.

Yaksik (약식)
A sweet rice cake made with glutinous rice, yaksik is prepared with jujubes, chestnuts, and nuts, and is often flavored with honey and cinnamon. This dessert has a sticky, chewy texture and a subtly sweet flavor, making it a perfect accompaniment with tea or coffee. The combination of ingredients adds a refreshing and nutty flavor that stands out among traditional desserts.

Tteok (떡)
Korean rice cakes, known as tteok, come in various forms and flavors. Some popular varieties include injeolmi (sticky rice cake coated in soybean powder) and songpyeon (a half-moon shaped rice cake filled with sweetened sesame or red bean paste). Tteok offers a chewy texture that is both satisfying and refreshing, especially when enjoyed fresh.

Fruit Jeonggwa (과일 전과)
Fruit jeonggwa is a type of candied fruit that is often served during festivities or special occasions. Made with fruits like pears or ginger, this dessert is cooked with sugar to create a syrupy and sweet coating. The result is a beautifully presented dish that is not only visually appealing but also enticingly refreshing, providing a burst of fruity flavor in every bite.

Indulging in these Korean desserts allows you to experience the culture's love for sweet and refreshing treats. Whether you are enjoying bingsu on a sunny day or savoring the chewy texture of tteok, each dessert offers a unique taste of Korea that is sure to delight your senses.