
I instantly adored this stunning Korean fruit medley when I first whipped it up at home. The mix of plump fruits floating in rosy milk with sparkling soda creates absolute wonder in every bowl. Whenever I bring this out during my summer parties, it vanishes in seconds with guests begging to know how I made it.
Why This Refreshing Beverage Stands Out
What makes this drink incredible is how perfectly the tastes and textures work together. I'm amazed at how the fruity sweetness mingles with smooth strawberry milk and fizzy soda to make something truly remarkable. You can swap fruits based on what's fresh or whatever grabs your attention at the store. Believe me, you really can't go wrong with this.
Kitchen Items You'll Want to Gather
- Ingredient: 1 cup ice cubes (I like to throw in mint leaves with mine)
- Ingredient: 3 cups watermelon cubes (go for the juiciest one available)
- Ingredient: 3 cups mixed fruits (I grab strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, mangoes, banana, but pick whatever you enjoy)
- Ingredient: 1 cup jelly (sakura jelly looks fantastic, though any type does the job)
- Ingredient: ¼ cup popping boba (completely optional but adds excitement)
- Ingredient: 1½ cups Sprite (any bubbly soda works wonderfully)
- Ingredient: 1¾ cups Pink Drink (strawberry milk works amazingly too)
- Ingredient: ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk (tweak sweetness as you like)
- Optional: ½ cup vanilla ice cream (makes everything creamier)
Simple Steps to Combine Everything
- Prep Your Items
- Slice your watermelon and other fruits into small chunks. Get your jelly or boba ready if you're using them. I prefer freezing mint ice cubes beforehand.
- Combine Components
- Find your largest pretty serving bowl and toss in all your fruits, jelly, boba and ice.
- Add the Liquids
- Here comes the exciting part. Drizzle in your soda, Pink Drink or strawberry milk, followed by sweetened condensed milk. Stir everything lightly.
- Ready to Serve
- Drop in some ice cream if you want to treat yourself. Dish it out immediately while everything's nice and chilly with bubbles.

Insider Tricks for Your Spectacular Creation
This drink tastes best consumed immediately while it's still fresh and bubbly. I enjoy trying different fruit combos depending on seasonal availability. Sometimes I'll toss in some pretty edible flowers or vibrant jellies to dress it up for gatherings. You can really take this in countless directions.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I prepare Hwachae early?
While you can cut the fruits ahead of time, it’s better to mix everything right before you’re serving. Adding soda too soon can make it go flat, and it won’t taste as fresh.
- → Which fruits are best for this drink?
Watermelon is a classic choice, but ripe fruits like mango, kiwi, berries, or melons work wonderfully. Use what’s sweet and seasonal for the best results.
- → Is it okay to skip the soda?
Absolutely! Swap it with sparkling water, fruit juice, or even Korean citron tea for a more traditional vibe. You can also sweeten with syrup and plain water.
- → How long can I store Hwachae?
It’s ideal to enjoy it within a few hours of making it. After around 2-3 hours, fruits may get mushy, and the drink loses its fizzy punch. Avoid storing leftovers for next day use.
- → Can I turn it into a cocktail?
Sure! Add a splash of soju or vodka for an adult-friendly version. Start small, taste, and adjust as needed. The fruits might taste a bit different with the alcohol, though.