Matcha Bingsu is a refreshing twist on the classic Korean shaved ice dessert that’s perfect for cooling down on warm days. This vibrant green treat combines finely shaved ice with the rich, earthy flavor of matcha powder, creating a delightful balance of sweet and slightly bitter notes. It’s a visually stunning dessert that’s as delicious as it is Instagram-worthy.
We love how easy it is to customize Matcha Bingsu with toppings like sweet red beans, mochi, or condensed milk to suit your taste. Whether you’re new to bingsu or a longtime fan, this recipe brings a fresh matcha flair that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into making this cool, creamy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
To create an authentic and refreshing Matcha Bingsu, we need carefully selected ingredients for the matcha syrup, the bingsu base, and the toppings. These elements come together to build the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and visual appeal.
Matcha Syrup Ingredients
Our Matcha Syrup infuses the shaved ice with that signature earthy bitterness balanced by sweetness. We’ll need:
- 2 teaspoons of high-quality matcha powder (preferably ceremonial grade for vibrant color and taste)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water (filtered for best flavor)
We dissolve the sugar into the water over low heat, then whisk in the matcha powder until smooth and fully combined.
Bingsu Base Ingredients
The base sets the stage for the dessert’s texture and subtle sweetness. Gather:
- 2 cups of ice cubes (preferably purified or spring water ice for clean taste)
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk (for drizzling and extra creaminess)
- 1/4 cup whole milk (optional, for softer ice shavings)
Toppings
A glorious Matcha Bingsu is incomplete without toppings that add flavor contrasts and interesting textures. Consider these essentials:
| Topping Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet red beans (pat) | 1/2 cup | Cooked and sweetened |
| Mochi | 1/4 cup | Small chewy rice cake pieces |
| Toasted almond slices | 2 tablespoons | Adds crunch |
| Fresh strawberries | 1/4 cup sliced | Optional for fruity freshness |
| Additional condensed milk | To taste | For extra sweetness drizzle |
These Ingredients allow us to craft a Matcha Bingsu that is balanced, visually stunning, and deliciously refreshing.
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect Matcha Bingsu, having the right equipment is essential. Each tool plays a crucial role in achieving the ideal texture and presentation of this refreshing dessert. Below we outline the key equipment and their purposes to ensure our Matcha Bingsu turns out flawlessly.
Essential Tools
- Ice Shaver or Blender: We require a device capable of producing ultra-fine shaved ice. An electric ice shaver designed for bingsu is ideal for achieving the light fluffy texture. Alternatively, a high-powered blender with crushed ice function can work in a pinch but may produce coarser ice.
- Mixing Bowls: Use medium-sized bowls for preparing the matcha syrup and combining ingredients. Stainless steel or glass bowls work best to avoid odors or stains.
- Measuring Tools: Precision is key for balancing flavors. A digital kitchen scale and measuring spoons ensure accurate amounts of matcha powder, sugar, and condensed milk.
- Whisk: A small bamboo matcha whisk (chasen) or a fine-wire whisk helps blend matcha powder smoothly into water creating a vibrant green syrup without lumps.
- Serving Bowls and Spoons: Clear, wide bowls showcase the visual layers of Matcha Bingsu beautifully. Choose shallow bowls and long-handled spoons for easy enjoyment.
Optional but Helpful
- Ice Cube Trays: For preparing the shaved ice base, freezing fresh water or milk in specific quantities helps control melting rate and creaminess.
- Squeeze Bottle: Useful for drizzling matcha syrup or condensed milk evenly over the shaved ice.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ice Shaver/Blender | Creates finely shaved ice base | Electric shaver preferred |
| Mixing Bowls | Preparing syrup and mixing | Stainless steel or glass |
| Digital Scale | Accurate measurement of ingredients | Necessary for balance |
| Matcha Whisk (Chasen) | Whisking matcha powder without lumps | Bamboo whisk ideal |
| Serving Bowls | Display and serve Matcha Bingsu | Clear and shallow recommended |
| Ice Cube Trays | Freezing ice base with control over size | Optional but useful |
| Squeeze Bottle | Drizzling syrups or condensed milk evenly | Optional for precision toppings |
Pro Tip: Using a specialized ice shaver elevates the texture of your bingsu from coarse and crunchy to light and fluffy—this is the key to an authentic Matcha Bingsu experience.
Having this equipment ready and within reach will streamline our process and make preparing this refreshing treat enjoyable and efficient.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing Matcha Bingsu ahead of time ensures we can quickly assemble this refreshing dessert without compromising its delicate flavors and textures. Here’s how we can get organized for a smooth and efficient serving experience.
Prepare and Store the Matcha Syrup
- Mix matcha powder, granulated sugar, and water in a bowl using a whisk until fully dissolved and smooth.
- Transfer the syrup into an airtight container or a squeeze bottle for easy dispensing.
- Refrigerate the matcha syrup for up to 3 days to maintain its fresh, vibrant flavor.
Make and Freeze the Bingsu Base
- Blend ice cubes with sweetened condensed milk and optional whole milk until you achieve the signature fine, fluffy texture.
- Spoon the shaved ice mixture into a shallow container.
- Freeze the bingsu base in a flat layer to preserve its texture.
- Use within 24 hours for optimal fluffiness and softness.
Prepare and Store Toppings
We can also prep toppings such as sweet red beans, mochi, toasted almonds, and fresh fruits in advance.
| Topping | Prep Method | Storage Time | Storage Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sweet Red Beans | Cook and chill | Up to 3 days | Refrigerate in airtight container |
| Mochi | Cut and store | Up to 2 days | Keep covered at room temperature |
| Toasted Almonds | Toast and cool | Up to 1 week | Store in an airtight jar |
| Fresh Strawberries | Wash and slice | Same day recommended | Refrigerate in sealed container |
Assembly Tips for Make-Ahead
- Keep the matcha syrup chilled separately until just before serving to prevent melting.
- For best results, shave ice or fluff the frozen bingsu base once again before plating.
- Assemble toppings last to maintain optimal texture and appearance.
Pro tip: Label each container with the preparation date to enjoy every component of our Matcha Bingsu at its freshest and most vibrant.
Instructions
Follow these precise steps to craft the perfect Matcha Bingsu with a balance of creamy texture and vibrant matcha flavor.
Prepare Matcha Syrup
- Measure 2 tablespoons of high-quality matcha powder and sift it into a mixing bowl to prevent clumps.
- Add 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of warm water (about 140°F) to the bowl.
- Whisk vigorously with a bamboo whisk or a small whisk until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture becomes smooth and slightly frothy.
- Transfer the syrup to a clean container, cover, and refrigerate for up to 3 days to infuse the flavors.
Prepare Bingsu Base
- Combine 3 cups of ice cubes with 1/4 cup of sweetened condensed milk in a blender.
- Optionally add 1/4 cup of whole milk for extra creaminess.
- Blend on high speed until the mixture becomes fluffy and slushy with ultra-fine ice particles.
- Pour the blended base into ice cube trays and freeze for at least 24 hours to maintain fluffiness when shaved.
Shave the Ice
- Remove the frozen bingsu base cubes from the freezer.
- Use an ice shaver or a high-power blender with a shredding blade.
- Shave the ice finely until you have a soft, snow-like texture resembling fresh powder.
- Transfer the shaved ice immediately into chilled serving bowls to retain coldness.
Assemble the Matcha Bingsu
- Drizzle 2-3 tablespoons of the prepared matcha syrup evenly over the shaved ice.
- Add 1-2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk on top to enhance creaminess.
- Gently mix to create a marbled effect combining the green matcha and white condensed milk.
Add Toppings
Top the assembled bingsu with your choice of toppings to enhance the flavor and texture contrast. Here is a suggested serving portion table for common toppings:
| Topping | Amount per Serving | Preparation Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet Red Beans | 2 tablespoons | Rinse and boil until soft |
| Mochi | 3 pieces (cubed) | Use store-bought or homemade |
| Toasted Almond Slices | 1 tablespoon | Lightly toast until golden brown |
| Fresh Strawberries | 3-4 medium pieces | Wash and slice |
- Arrange the toppings artistically over the matcha bingsu surface.
- For an added touch, dust with a pinch of matcha powder or drizzle extra condensed milk.
Pro Tip: Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect mix of flavors and textures before the ice melts.
Serving Suggestions
To maximize the flavor and presentation of our Matcha Bingsu, let’s explore how to serve this refreshing dessert for the best sensory experience.
Presentation Tips
- Use clear shallow bowls or wide dessert glasses to showcase the snow-like texture of the shaved ice and the vibrant green matcha syrup.
- Layer the toppings artfully around the shaved ice mound. For example, place sweet red beans, mochi pieces, and almond slices in small clusters to add visual interest.
- Drizzle extra matcha syrup or condensed milk over the top just before serving for added richness and a beautiful glaze.
Pairing Suggestions
- Serve alongside a hot cup of green tea or jasmine tea to balance the cold refreshing qualities of the bingsu.
- Fresh fruits like strawberries or kiwi complement the earthiness of matcha and add a bright pop of color.
- For added texture contrast, include crunchy toppings such as crispy rice crackers or roasted nuts.
Portioning Guide
We recommend the following topping quantities per serving to achieve a balanced bite of sweetness, earthiness, and creaminess:
| Topping | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet red beans | 3 tbsp | Use cooked or canned sweetened beans |
| Mochi pieces | 4-5 small cubes | Chewy texture contrasts the ice |
| Toasted almonds | 1 tbsp | Adds crunch and nutty flavor |
| Fresh fruit slices | 2-3 slices | Strawberries or kiwi work best |
| Condensed milk | 1 tbsp (drizzle) | Enhances creaminess and sweetness |
| Matcha syrup | 2 tbsp (drizzle) | Intensifies the earthy matcha flavor |
Serving Temperature
Serve Matcha Bingsu immediately after assembly to savor the fluffy shaved ice and fresh toppings at their best. If not eating right away, store the components separately and assemble just before serving to prevent melting and sogginess.
“The secret to a memorable Matcha Bingsu is in the immediate serving and thoughtful layering of textures and flavors.“
Customization Ideas
- Swap sweet red beans for azuki paste for a smoother texture.
- Add a scoop of matcha or vanilla ice cream on top to elevate creaminess.
- Sprinkle a pinch of matcha powder just before serving for an extra burst of green tea aroma.
By following these serving suggestions, we ensure our Matcha Bingsu delights all the senses — from its visual appeal to its refreshing, layered taste experience.
Storage Tips
Proper storage of Matcha Bingsu components ensures freshness and preserves the delicate flavors of this refreshing dessert. Since bingsu relies on the soft texture of shaved ice, storing the assembled dessert is not recommended. Instead, we focus on preserving the matcha syrup, bingsu base, and toppings separately for future use.
Storing Matcha Syrup
- Transfer the prepared matcha syrup into an airtight container or a glass bottle.
- Keep it refrigerated to maintain its vibrant color and fresh flavor.
- Use within 5 to 7 days for optimal taste and quality.
Storing Bingsu Base
- Freeze the bingsu base mixture (ice cubes blended with sweetened condensed milk and milk) in an airtight container.
- Maintain a consistent freezer temperature at or below 0°F (-18°C) to prevent ice crystal formation.
- Use within 1 week to preserve the fine texture necessary for smooth shaving.
Storing Toppings
- Sweet red beans and mochi store best in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
- Fresh fruits like strawberries should be stored separately in perforated containers to allow airflow, ideally consumed within 2 days.
- Toasted almond slices or crunchy toppings should be kept in sealed dry containers at room temperature to maintain crispness.
| Component | Storage Method | Temperature | Recommended Use Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Matcha Syrup | Airtight container | Refrigerate 35–40°F | 5–7 days |
| Bingsu Base | Airtight container | Freeze at 0°F (-18°C) | 1 week |
| Sweet Red Beans | Airtight container | Refrigerate 35–40°F | 5 days |
| Mochi | Airtight container | Refrigerate 35–40°F | 3–4 days |
| Fresh Fruits | Perforated container | Refrigerate 35–40°F | 2 days |
| Toasted Almonds | Sealed dry container | Room temperature | 1 week |
Important Tips
- Shaved ice texture cannot be restored once melted. Always shave ice fresh before serving.
- When storing components separately, label containers with preparation date for easy tracking.
- Avoid mixing syrup or toppings directly with the base prior to serving to prevent textural compromise.
“For the best Matcha Bingsu experience always prepare the shaved ice and assemble the dessert fresh, using stored components quickly and efficiently to capture its signature taste and texture.”
By carefully following these storage techniques, we ensure that every serving of Matcha Bingsu retains its signature smoothness and vibrant matcha flavor.
Conclusion
Matcha Bingsu offers a refreshing and visually stunning way to enjoy the rich flavors of matcha in a cool dessert. With the right ingredients and tools, creating this treat at home is both fun and rewarding. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and earthiness.
By customizing toppings and serving it fresh, we can elevate the experience every time. Give it a try and discover how this delightful dessert can brighten up any warm day with its unique taste and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Matcha Bingsu?
Matcha Bingsu is a Korean shaved ice dessert flavored with matcha powder, offering a sweet and slightly bitter taste. It’s topped with ingredients like sweet red beans, mochi, or condensed milk for a refreshing treat.
What ingredients are needed to make Matcha Bingsu?
You need high-quality matcha powder, granulated sugar, water for the matcha syrup; ice cubes, sweetened condensed milk, and optional whole milk for the bingsu base; plus toppings like sweet red beans, mochi, almonds, and fresh fruits.
How do I achieve the perfect shaved ice texture?
Use a specialized ice shaver or blender to create ultra-fine, snow-like shaved ice. This tool ensures a soft, fluffy texture essential for authentic Matcha Bingsu.
Can I prepare Matcha Bingsu in advance?
It’s best to prepare and assemble Matcha Bingsu fresh. The shaved ice texture cannot be restored once melted, so store matcha syrup, bingsu base, and toppings separately until ready to serve.
What are good serving suggestions for Matcha Bingsu?
Serve in clear shallow bowls or wide dessert glasses to showcase layers. Pair with hot green or jasmine tea, fresh fruits, and crunchy toppings for balanced flavors and a beautiful presentation.
How do I store leftover matcha syrup and bingsu components?
Keep matcha syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Freeze the bingsu base for up to one week. Store toppings like red beans and mochi refrigerated in airtight containers, and fruits in perforated containers.