Hwachae: A Refreshing Korean Fruit Punch
Hwachae is a traditional Korean punch made from a variety of fruits, often served during warm weather for its refreshing, sweet, and fruity flavors. This particular version combines fresh watermelon, berries, fruit cocktail, and the delightful addition of strawberry milk and a carbonated beverage, giving it a fun twist that’s perfect for any summer gathering or special occasion.
With its vibrant colors and juicy, fresh ingredients, Hwachae is not only delicious but also visually stunning. Let’s explore how to make this refreshing and fruity Korean punch!
Ingredients
- 4 cups chopped fresh watermelon
- 1 ½ cups fresh fruit (such as berries, melon, or your favorite seasonal fruits)
- 1 can (14 ounces) fruit cocktail, drained
- 12 ounces carbonated beverage (Sprite, 7Up, or similar)
- 14 ounces strawberry milk
- 1 cup ice cubes
Directions
1. Combine the Fruits
In a large bowl, mix together the chopped watermelon, fresh fruit, and drained fruit cocktail. Stir the fruit to evenly distribute the flavors and textures. You can use any combination of your favorite fruits—berries and melons work particularly well in this recipe.
2. Add the Strawberry Milk and Ice
Pour the strawberry milk over the fruit mixture, followed by the ice cubes. Stir gently to combine the ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld. The strawberry milk adds a creamy, sweet touch to the punch that complements the fruit beautifully.
3. Finish with a Fizzy Twist
Finally, pour in the carbonated beverage of your choice. The fizz from the soda gives the punch a fun and bubbly texture, making it all the more refreshing. Gently stir everything together, being careful not to lose too much of the carbonation.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Serve Hwachae immediately for the best experience, as it’s meant to be enjoyed cold and bubbly. You can serve it in individual bowls or glasses, making sure each serving gets a generous portion of fruit and liquid.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 120 kcal per serving
Tips for Success
- Fruit Variations: You can customize Hwachae with whatever fruits are in season or to your liking. Pineapple, kiwi, and peaches are all excellent options.
- Strawberry Milk: If strawberry milk isn’t available, you can substitute with regular milk and add a splash of strawberry syrup, or use flavored plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
- Serving Style: Hwachae is traditionally served in bowls rather than glasses, so be generous with the fruit in each portion to make it extra satisfying!
Final Thoughts
Hwachae is the ultimate summer punch, combining the natural sweetness of fresh fruit with the creamy richness of strawberry milk and the fizzy fun of soda. It’s perfect for cooling down on a hot day, serving at a party, or simply treating yourself to a refreshing drink. With just 10 minutes of prep time, this fruit punch is quick, easy, and sure to impress.
Print
Hwachae
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
Hwachae is a refreshing Korean fruit punch made with a colorful mix of fresh watermelon, berries, and other fruits, all soaked in sweet strawberry milk and topped with a fizzy splash of soda. The combination of sweet, juicy fruits and the gentle fizz of the carbonated beverage creates a refreshing and fun drink that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients
4 cups chopped fresh watermelon
1 ½ cups fresh fruit (berries, melon, etc.)
1 can (14 ounces) fruit cocktail, drained
12 ounces carbonated beverage (Sprite, 7Up, etc.)
14 ounces strawberry milk
1 cup ice cubes
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the chopped watermelon, fresh fruit, and drained fruit cocktail. Stir to mix the fruits evenly.
Pour the strawberry milk over the fruit mixture, followed by the ice cubes. Stir to combine.
Finally, add the carbonated beverage and gently stir everything together.
Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing and fruity Korean punch!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 120