The Most Delicious Korean Desserts You Can Make with Ease

Korean cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and diverse ingredients, and this extends to its delightful desserts. Many Korean desserts are surprisingly easy to whip up at home, allowing you to enjoy a taste of Korea without the complexity. Here’s a list of some of the most delicious Korean desserts you can make with ease.

1. Bingsu (Shaved Ice)
Bingsu is a popular summer treat in Korea, consisting of finely shaved ice topped with sweetened condensed milk, fruit, and various toppings. To make a basic version, simply shave some ice or use a blender for a snow-like texture. Top it with your favorite fruits like strawberries or mangoes, add a scoop of red bean paste, and finish it with a drizzle of condensed milk for a refreshing dessert.

2. Mugwort Rice Cake (Songpyeon)
Songpyeon is a traditional Korean rice cake often made for celebrations like Chuseok. However, making it at home can be simple. Combine glutinous rice flour with water to form a dough, then fill it with sweetened sesame or red bean paste. Shape the rice cakes into half-moons and steam them for about 20 minutes. The fragrant taste of mugwort elevates this dish, making it a must-try.

3. Korean Pancakes (Hotteok)
Hotteok are sweet Korean pancakes filled with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts. To prepare the dough, mix flour, sugar, and yeast with water and let it rise. Then form small balls, fill them with the sweet mixture, and pan-fry until golden brown. They’re crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, making them a delightful treat any time of the year.

4. Sweet Rice Cake (Injeolmi)
Injeolmi is a chewy rice cake coated in powdered soybean flour that offers a unique texture. To make this, soak glutinous rice overnight and then steam it. Once cooked, pound the rice until smooth, shape it into bite-sized pieces, and coat with powdered soybean flour. This dessert is simple yet delicious, making it a favorite among many.

5. Korean Strawberry Milk
For a refreshing drink that doubles as a dessert, try Korean strawberry milk. Blend fresh strawberries with milk and sugar, adjust the sweetness to your liking, and serve chilled. For a decorative touch, you can layer it by adding fresh strawberries at the bottom of the glass before pouring the milk mixture on top.

6. Fruit Korean Jelly (Podo Jeli)
This refreshing jelly dessert is made with agar-agar and fruit juice, making it a light option perfect for hot days. Combine fruit juice with agar-agar in a saucepan, bring it to a boil, and then pour it into molds along with diced fruits. Allow it to set in the fridge before serving for a delightful, wobbly treat.

7. Banana Milk
This simple yet nostalgic drink is beloved in Korea. Blend ripe bananas with milk and a little sugar for sweetness. Serve it chilled or over ice for a dessert that brings back childhood memories. You can also experiment by adding vanilla or a dash of honey for extra flavor.

Korean desserts are not only satisfying but also fun to make. With these easy recipes, you can bring a touch of Korean cuisine into your kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying a refreshing bingsu on a hot day or indulging in soft injeolmi, each bite offers a unique taste of Korean culture. Don’t hesitate to try them all and discover your favorites!