🇰🇷 South Korea · Dessert
Patbingsu (Korean Shaved Ice Dessert)
By eatmundo · July 9, 2026
Patbingsu is a refreshing and elaborate Korean shaved ice dessert, perfect for beating the summer heat. It typically features finely shaved ice, topped with sweet red bean paste, chewy rice cakes (tteok), and an array of colorful fruits, creating a delightful textural and flavor contrast.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
To prepare the milk ice base, combine 500ml milk and 60ml condensed milk in a freezer-safe container. Stir well until the condensed milk is fully dissolved. For the best shaved ice texture, choose a shallow, wide container that allows the mixture to freeze evenly.
- 2
Place the milk mixture in the freezer for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight, until completely solid. If you have an ice cream maker, you can churn it for a creamier texture before freezing solid. This milk ice will form the flavorful base of your Patbingsu.
- 3
While the milk ice is freezing, prepare your toppings. Cut 100g injeolmi tteok into small, bite-sized cubes if they aren't already. Wash and slice 100g fresh fruit, such as strawberries or mango, and chop 2 tbsp of your favorite nuts (e.g., almonds or walnuts). Have 150g sweet red bean paste ready.
- 4
Once the milk ice is thoroughly frozen, remove it from the freezer. Using a sharp knife or an ice shaver, carefully shave or scrape the frozen milk into fine flakes or ribbons. Aim for a light, fluffy texture that melts deliciously in your mouth. If you don't have a shaver, you can blend chunks of the frozen milk in a food processor, pulsing until a snowy consistency is achieved, being careful not to over-process into a liquid.
- 5
Pile the finely shaved milk ice into two large serving bowls, creating a mound in each. This forms the canvas for your beautiful dessert.
- 6
Artfully arrange the toppings on top of the shaved ice. Place generous spoonfuls of 150g sweet red bean paste, scatter the injeolmi tteok cubes, and arrange the fresh fruit slices around the sides or over the top. The visual appeal is part of the Patbingsu experience!
- 7
Finally, dust each bowl with 2 tbsp roasted soybean powder (konggaru) and sprinkle with the chopped nuts. For an extra touch of sweetness, a drizzle of extra condensed milk is always welcome. Serve immediately to enjoy the unique blend of cold, sweet, and chewy textures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular ice cubes instead of freezing milk?+
While you technically can, using regular water ice won't give you the rich, creamy, and flavorful base that milk ice provides. The condensed milk adds sweetness and helps create a finer, softer shaved ice texture.
What if I don't have an ice shaver?+
You can use a food processor to achieve a snowy texture. Break the frozen milk into chunks, then pulse them in the food processor until they resemble fine snow. Be careful not to overmix, or it will turn into a smoothie.
What are traditional toppings for Patbingsu?+
Traditionally, Patbingsu features sweet red bean paste and injeolmi tteok (rice cakes coated in roasted soybean powder). Modern variations often include a wide array of fresh fruits, condensed milk, cereals, ice cream, and jellies.
How can I make the shaved ice finer and fluffier?+
For the finest texture, a dedicated electric ice shaver is best. If using a food processor, ensure the milk is completely frozen solid and pulse in short bursts. For manual scraping, use a very sharp knife or a durable metal spatula on a very cold block of ice.
Mundo Match
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