Korean Banana Milk Glass

There is something nostalgic and comforting about a tall, cold glass of Korean banana milk. As a child, I would always beg for the pastel yellow carton at the Asian supermarket. Now, making it at home is a breeze and I can adjust the sweetness and real banana flavor just the way I like it. This version captures that smooth, creamy taste with simple ingredients and a luscious texture that is even better than the store-bought kind.

I first tried making this when my usual snack routine got dull. My whole family finished the pitcher in one sitting, so now it is a weekly staple.

Ingredients

• Overripe bananas: bring natural sweetness and creamy texture. Look for fruit with lots of brown speckles
• Whole or plant-based milk: offers richness and allows for dairy-free options
• Granulated sugar: lets you control sweetness to your preference
• Sweetened condensed milk: makes the drink extra velvety and gives the signature Korean banana milk taste. Choose a thick, glossy brand
• Vanilla extract: gives a bakery-like aroma. Pure extract is best but optional
• Extra bananas diced very small: add an optional chewy bite for texture lovers

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Bananas:

Peel and slice three medium overripe bananas into coins. These bananas should be deeply spotted for best flavor and blend easily into the milk for the most authentic taste.

Blend the Banana Milk Base:

Combine the sliced bananas with two thirds cup milk, one to two tablespoons sugar, a quarter to one third cup sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract if using. Use an immersion blender to process the mixture into a smooth and creamy base. It should look pale and glossy with no lumps.

Mix in the Milk:

Pour the banana milk base into a large beverage container. Add three cups cold milk to the base and stir vigorously so everything blends together. Check for sweetness and thickness. Adjust with a bit more sugar or condensed milk if you want it richer or sweeter.

Add Texture:

If you like a pulpy drink, finely dice one or two more bananas and stir the cubes into the mixed milk. This makes each sip more satisfying and fun to drink.

Chill or Serve:

Refrigerate the banana milk several hours to let the flavors meld and reach maximum chill. You can also serve it right away over ice if you just cannot wait.

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My favorite part is using bananas that would otherwise go to waste. Once my little one insisted on adding extra banana chunks and now we always stir them in for new texture each time. There are countless fun memories associated with making this for Sunday breakfasts.

Storage Tips

Store banana milk in a tightly sealed pitcher or jar in the refrigerator. It remains fresh for up to three days. Give it a good stir before serving because natural separation is normal. Leftover condensed milk lasts about a month in the fridge as long as it is kept in an airtight container.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter drink use half the condensed milk and add extra bananas for smoothness. Any kind of unsweetened plant milk works well if you prefer dairy-free. Maple syrup or honey can be swapped for sugar if you like natural sweetening. Skip the vanilla or use almond extract for a twist.

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Serving Suggestions

Banana milk tastes best when icy cold. Pour it over ice cubes for an extra-refreshing treat. Try it with breakfast cereal or granola for a dreamy snack. It is also delicious blended with a scoop of ice cream for a quick banana milkshake or poured over oatmeal.

Cultural Context

Korean banana milk was first launched in the 1970s and quickly became an iconic beverage across generations. Its pastel color and nostalgic packaging make it a beloved comfort drink in Korea. Homemade versions bring that joy to anyone’s kitchen and allow for fresher flavors.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of bananas should I use for this drink?

Fully ripe, spotted bananas give the best flavor and creaminess to the finished beverage.

→ Is it possible to use plant-based milk instead of dairy?

Yes, both whole and plant-based milks work beautifully, so feel free to use oat, almond, or soy milk as you prefer.

→ Can I control the sweetness of this banana milk?

Absolutely. Adjust the sugar and sweetened condensed milk to your taste for a beverage that suits your preference.

→ How long does homemade banana milk stay fresh?

Keep your banana milk in a sealed container in the refrigerator; it’s best consumed within 3 days.

→ What are some serving ideas for banana milk?

Enjoy it chilled or over ice, pour it over cereal or oatmeal, or blend it into smoothies for added flavor and nutrition.

→ Do I need to blend the banana milk or can I just stir it?

For a silky drink, blend the bananas with the milk. For texture, stir in cubed banana pieces after blending.