There is something truly comforting and delightfully sweet about this Quick Korean Banana Milk Recipe. It takes the humble banana to a whole new level, blending creamy milk, luscious condensed milk, and just the right touch of sugar to create a smooth, dreamy beverage that feels like a sweet hug in a glass. Whether you’re craving a nostalgic drink reminiscent of Korean convenience stores or looking for a naturally flavored treat that’s both simple and satisfying, this recipe hits every note with ease and joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s fantastic about this Quick Korean Banana Milk Recipe is how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are. Each one plays a special role, from lending natural sweetness and creaminess to adding layers of flavor that make the drink so irresistible.
- Bananas: Use 3 medium overripe bananas for the base to ensure maximum sweetness and smooth texture, with an option to add 1-2 more finely cubed bananas for a bit of delightful bite and extra banana flavor.
- Milk: 3 2/3 cups of your choice (whole milk is ideal for creaminess, but oat or almond milk work beautifully for dairy-free versions).
- Sugar: 1 to 2 tablespoons depending on your sweetness preference; use less if your bananas are very ripe and sweet.
- Condensed Milk: About 1/3 cup for that signature rich, creamy sweetness that gives this drink its wonderfully indulgent feel.
- Vanilla Extract: Optional 1/2 teaspoon to add a subtle aromatic sweetness that elevates the overall flavor profile.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make Quick Korean Banana Milk Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bananas
Start by slicing 3 medium overripe bananas into a large bowl or measuring cup – these bananas form the natural sweet base of your Quick Korean Banana Milk Recipe. If you want to add extra texture or have a few more bananas on hand, finely cube 1 to 2 additional bananas now and set them aside for later to stir in.
Step 2: Blend the Banana Milk Base
Add 2/3 cup of milk, 1 to 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 1/4 to 1/3 cup of condensed milk into the bowl with your sliced bananas. If you love a subtle vanilla touch, add the optional 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract here. Use an immersion blender or regular blender to blend everything until completely smooth and lump-free. This step ensures the drink has that classic creamy texture everybody loves.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
Pour the banana milk base into a large container. Next, add the remaining 3 cups of milk and stir gently to combine. If you reserved cubed bananas in step 1, fold them in now to add a delightful bit of texture. For the best flavor experience, chill the mixture for a few hours in the refrigerator, but if you’re impatient (like most of us!), serve immediately over ice for a refreshing treat.
How to Serve Quick Korean Banana Milk Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your serving experience by adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top, which adds a warm, fragrant twist that perfectly complements the banana’s sweetness. A few fresh banana slices on the rim or a tiny drizzle of honey can also create a visually inviting finish that’s as pretty as it is tasty.
Side Dishes
This creamy banana milk pairs wonderfully with light, subtly flavored treats like simple butter cookies, almond biscotti, or even a fresh fruit salad. These accompaniments balance the richness of the milk and give you a delightful snack-time combo that’s perfect any time of day.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try pouring the Quick Korean Banana Milk Recipe into cute glass bottles or mason jars with colorful straws for an Instagram-worthy presentation. You can also freeze the banana milk into popsicle molds for a naturally sweet frozen dessert that’s perfect for warm days. Those little details make enjoying this drink even more joyous!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover banana milk in an airtight container or bottle in the fridge for up to 2 days. Because fresh bananas can brown over time, give the drink a quick stir or shake before serving to redistribute flavors and texture evenly.
Freezing
Freezing banana milk can alter its smooth texture slightly, so if you want to freeze it, do so in ice cube trays and blend those cubes into smoothies later. This way, you enjoy the flavor without any loss of creaminess.
Reheating
This drink is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you prefer it warm, gently heat it on the stove over low heat, stirring constantly. Avoid microwaving directly to prevent curdling and keep that smooth, luscious texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use green bananas for the Quick Korean Banana Milk Recipe?
Green bananas are not recommended because they lack the natural sweetness and soft texture needed to make the milk creamy and flavorful. Overripe bananas are ideal for that perfect sweet taste and smooth consistency.
What milk alternatives work best for this recipe?
Oat milk and almond milk are excellent dairy-free options that maintain creaminess without overpowering the banana flavor. Just be mindful of their own sweetness levels to adjust the sugar accordingly.
Is it necessary to add sugar and condensed milk?
While bananas provide sweetness, sugar and condensed milk add depth and the signature rich flavor commonly found in Korean banana milk. You can adjust or reduce these ingredients if you prefer a more natural taste or a less sweet drink.
How long does the Quick Korean Banana Milk Recipe keep in the fridge?
For best taste and freshness, consume it within 2 days of preparation. Over time, the banana flavor may become stronger and the texture might change slightly, so enjoy it sooner rather than later.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Use plant-based milk like oat or almond milk and substitute sweetened coconut condensed milk or a homemade vegan version to keep that creamy sweet quality intact while keeping the recipe plant-based.
Final Thoughts
Trying out the Quick Korean Banana Milk Recipe is like inviting a little joy and sweetness into your day with minimal effort. It’s a simple recipe packed with nostalgic charm and rich flavor that’s perfect for sharing or savoring solo. Whether as a refreshing drink on a sunny afternoon or a sweet finish to a meal, this banana milk will quickly become one of your go-to favorites. So grab those bananas, and let the magic happen!
PrintQuick Korean Banana Milk Recipe
This Quick Korean Banana Milk recipe is a creamy and sweet homemade beverage inspired by the popular Korean drink, perfect for a refreshing treat. Made with ripe bananas, milk, and a touch of condensed milk, it’s easy to prepare in just 10 minutes and can be customized for sweetness and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Korean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Banana Base
- 3 medium overripe bananas (about 7″ long)
- 1 – 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust for sweetness preference)
- 1/4 – 1/3 cup condensed milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Milk Mixture
- 3 2/3 cups milk (or oat, almond, or preferred milk alternative)
Optional
- 1 – 2 additional bananas, finely cubed for texture
Instructions
- Prepare Bananas: Slice 3 medium ripe bananas and place them into a large bowl or measuring cup. If you want extra texture or a stronger banana flavor, finely cube 1-2 additional bananas to add later.
- Make Banana Milk Base: Add 2/3 cup of milk, 1 to 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1/4 to 1/3 cup of condensed milk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (if using) to the bowl with sliced bananas. Use an immersion blender to blend the mixture until smooth and lump-free. For a less sweet version, use 1 tablespoon of sugar and 1/4 cup condensed milk. Adjust sweetness to taste based on banana ripeness.
- Combine with Milk: Pour the banana milk base into a large drink container. Add the remaining 3 cups of milk and stir to combine thoroughly.
- Add Texture (Optional): If using cubed bananas, fold them into the combined banana milk mixture.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for a few hours to chill or serve immediately over ice for a refreshing drink.
Notes
- Use ripe or overripe bananas for the best sweetness and flavor.
- Sugar and condensed milk quantities can be adjusted based on your preferred sweetness and banana ripeness.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with oat or almond milk.
- Adding cubed bananas provides a pleasant texture but is optional.
- Best served chilled, but can be enjoyed over ice if served immediately.
