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Makgeolli Shake

Makgeolli shake, a chic Korean alcoholic beverage, masterfully blends the subtle sweetness and fizziness of makgeolli with the rich, creamy texture of vanilla custard and ice cream. This delightful drink has won the hearts of many, and the best part is that you can now create your very own from the comfort of your home!

Two glasses filled with a blended makgeolli shake, served with sleek stainless steel straws.

Before we start talking about the delicious makgeolli shake, let’s take a moment to understand what makgeolli actually is.

What is Makgeolli

Makgeolli or Makgeoli (막걸리) is a traditional Korean alcoholic beverage made from rice. It’s often referred to as Korean rice wine, but it has a unique milky appearance and a slightly sweet and bitter taste, complemented by a bit of a fizzy sensation.

Makgeolli is created through fermenting rice with water and a special fermentation starter called “nuruk (누룩)” This process gives the drink its distinct flavor and low alcohol content, usually around 6-8%.

It is a popular drink that is commonly enjoyed at social gatherings. It’s usually served in small bowls or cups and pairs perfectly with other Korean dishes like pajeon (Korean pancake), kimchi (fermented cabbage) and dotorimuk (acorn jelly). 

Two bottles of makgeolli positioned against a wall.

What is Makgeolli Shake

Makgeolli shake (막걸리 쉐이크) is a trendy Korean alcoholic drink that has recently become popular in food circles. Its slightly sweet, bitter and fizzy taste is perfectly complemented by smooth and fragrant vanilla custard and ice cream, creating a delicious and intriguing flavor that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.

I first had the opportunity to try this delicious concoction at an unexpected location – Shake Shack burger joint in Korea last year. The unique taste of the makgeolli shake had me hooked right away, although it may no longer be available there since it was part of a limited summer time promotion.

I recently read that Paris Baguette franchises in Korea are offering a limited-time treat this year. If you’re interested, make sure to get it while you can. However, there’s a chance that it may be discontinued altogether, so this recipe will certainly come in handy!

From my perspective, the flavor profile of makgeolli shake is reminiscent of the classic tropical drink, the pina colada. Ultimately, everyone will have their own opinion on if they agree with me or not. 🙂

Whether you’re looking to try something new or indulge in a tasty treat, the makgeolli shake is definitely worth a try! 

Close-up image of two glasses containing blended makgeolli shakes, accompanied by stainless steel straws.

Tips for Making a Delicious Makgeolli Shake

Excited about creating your own delicious makgeolli shake? Let’s dive into my personal tips for the perfect blend:

  • Chill your makgeolli before using it. This will help the shake to be cold and refreshing.
  • For best results, use a high-quality blender to blend the rest of the ingredients, including ice cubes, with your makgeolli.
  • Some franchises serve special rice cereals as a garnish to provide an interesting texture, but I haven’t tried this version, so I didn’t add into mine. But it goes by the name ‘rice crunch’ (or 쌀토핑 in Korean), so if you can find it try adding some.
  • Serve the shake in a tall glass with a straw for a fun and enjoyable drinking experience. I love using a wide-base stainless steel straw, which I find incredibly versatile.
  • Keep in mind that the amount of each ingredient you use can make a big difference in how your final makgeolli shake tastes. To get just the right flavor combination for your palate, don’t be afraid to try using different amounts of ingredients until you find your perfect balance. Also, if you’re looking for that authentic, robust makgeolli flavor, try using less custard and sweetened condensed milk in your shake.

Holding a glass of blended makgeolli shake in one hand.

More Korean Drink Recipes to Love

Below recipes are not only delicious and fun to make, but some also have the added bonus of being better for you.

Ingredients for Makgeolli Shake

  • 2 cup makgeolli (Korean rice wine), chilled
  • 1 cup vanilla custard
  • 1/3 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 100g / 3.5 ounces vanilla ice cream
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 160g / 5.6 ounces ice cubes

* 1 cup = 250 ml

Ingredients for makgeolli shake lineup on a white marble background.

How To Make Makgeolli Shake

Begin by carefully stacking the required ingredients into the blender. Engage the blender for approximately 30 seconds, or until the mixture achieves a smooth consistency, speckled with small ice fragments. Be mindful to stop blending before it becomes fully liquid – these tiny ice pieces contribute to a delightful texture in the shake. Pair it with your meal of choice. You might be surprised how well it complements a burger!

Step-by-step images of a makgeolli shake being blended in a blender.

Love Korean food? Browse even more delicious ideas from my collection of easy Korean recipes. Don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter to stay updated on new recipes, what the MKK community is cooking, and K-Dramas!

Two glasses filled with a blended makgeolli shake, served with sleek stainless steel straws.

Makgeolli Shake

Indulge in a unique dessert experience with a blended makgeolli shake, crafted from Korean rice wine, vanilla custard, ice cream, and more. A sweet treat like no other!
5 from 3 votes
Print Pin Rate Save
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Korean
Keyword: makgeolli, makgeolli shake
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 2 to 3
Calories: 513kcal
Author: Sue | My Korean Kitchen

Ingredients

  • 2 cup makgeolli (Korean rice wine), chilled
  • 1 cup vanilla custard
  • 1/3 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 100 g vanilla ice cream (3.5 ounces)
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 160 g ice cubes (5.6 ounces)

Instructions

  • Begin by carefully stacking the required ingredients into the blender. Engage the blender for approximately 30 seconds, or until the mixture achieves a smooth consistency, speckled with small ice fragments. Be mindful to stop blending before it becomes fully liquid - these tiny ice pieces contribute to a delightful texture in the shake. Pair it with your meal of choice. You might be surprised how well it complements a burger!

Notes

  • 1 cup = 250 ml
  • If you're looking for an authentic, robust makgeolli flavor, consider using less custard and sweetened condensed milk in your shake.

Nutrition Info (per serving)

Calories: 513kcal | Carbohydrates: 81g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 111mg | Sodium: 227mg | Potassium: 582mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 45g | Vitamin A: 603IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 407mg | Iron: 1mg

The nutrition information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.

Tried this recipe?I love hearing how you went with my recipes! Rate this recipe with a comment below and tag me on Instagram @MyKoreanKitchen.

Written by: Sue

Last Updated:

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Welcome to my Korean kitchen! I’m so happy that you're here. I am Sue, the creator behind My Korean Kitchen (since 2006). I love good food and simplifying recipes. Here you will find my best and family approved recipes. Thanks for stopping by!

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