Hwachae Recipe (Korean Fruit Punch)

Name: Hwachae Recipe (Korean Fruit Punch)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 kg Watermelon

Hwachae is a classic Korean fruit punch that transforms fresh, colorful fruits into a sweet, chilled dessert drink perfect for hot summer days. Bursting with juicy watermelon, strawberries, and a lightly fizzy or honey-sweetened base, this easy recipe delivers a beautiful, refreshing taste of Korean tradition that’s ideal for sharing at parties or family gatherings. This Hwachae recipe is perfect for cooling off on warm days or adding a festive, colorful touch to your table. With simple steps and fresh ingredients, you can create a beautiful, crowd-pleasing treat that’s as fun to make as it is to share.

4.8

(7)

Updated : 08 July, 2025

Easy

About 10 min.

Ingredients

2 kilograms

Watermelon

1 cup

Strawberry

0.5 cup

Melon

500 milliliters

Soda

as needed

Ice

Fresh mint

Grape

Kiwi

Oranges

Pineapple

Blueberry

Table

Table of volume measurements:

teaspoon - 5 ml
dessert spoon - 10 ml
tablespoon - 20 ml
glass - 200 ml

Advices

Advice 1

What is Hwachae?

Hwachae (화채) is a traditional Korean fruit punch. It’s a colorful, refreshing drink-dessert made by soaking fresh fruits in a sweet, chilled liquid. Hwachae is especially popular in summer, when its icy, fruity sweetness offers the perfect way to cool down. The word hwachae literally combines hwa (flower) and chae (vegetable or dish), reflecting the beautiful presentation that often includes floating flower petals or vibrant fruits.

Historically, hwachae was served during Korean festivals and special occasions such as Dano (a traditional spring festival) or Chuseok (harvest festival), symbolizing hospitality and abundance. It was enjoyed in royal courts as well as by everyday people, with recipes evolving over centuries.

Advice 2

Types of Hwachae Hwachae bowl isn’t just one drink, it’s a whole family of traditional Korean fruit punches and sweet beverages, each with its own distinctive ingredients and seasonal charm. Below are some of the most popular and traditional types of hwachae you’ll find in Korea.

Subak Hwachae (Watermelon Punch). The best-known and most popular summer hwachae. It features fresh watermelon chunks or balls in a sweetened, chilled liquid such as Sprite, lemon-lime soda, or honey water. Other fruits like strawberries or melon can be added for extra color and flavor. Served over ice, it's the go-to refreshment during Korea’s hot, humid summer months.
Omija Hwachae (Magnolia Berry Punch). Made with omija (오미자), the “five-flavor berry” known for its tart, herbal, slightly spicy taste. Omija tea is prepared first, creating a vivid ruby-red base. Pear slices and pine nuts are often added for subtle sweetness and crunch. Omija hwachae is prized for its stunning color and sophisticated flavor profile, popular during festive occasions.
Yuja Hwachae (Citron Punch). This citrus-forward hwachae uses yuja-cheong (유자청), a traditional Korean citron marmalade or syrup, mixed with chilled water or soda. It has a bright, zesty aroma and flavor, perfect for winter or early spring. Thin slices of yuja peel add visual appeal and an extra punch of citrus.

Advice 3

Nutrition Information (Approximate per Serving)
(Based on 8 servings. Values may vary depending on exact fruit and soda used.)

Calories: ~90–110 kcal
Carbohydrates: ~25 g
Sugars: ~22–24 g
Fat: 0 g
Protein: ~1 g
Fiber: ~1–2 g

Preparation

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Step 1

Prepare the Fruit. Cut the watermelon in half and then scoop out the flesh with a melon baller for round shapes or cut it into bite-sized cubes. Slice the strawberries. Cut the melon into small cubes or balls.

Step 2

Make the Sweetened Base. If using honey water: Mix 1–2 tablespoons of honey into 500 ml of cold water until fully dissolved. If using soda: no prep needed, just chill it in the fridge beforehand for best results.

Step 3

Combine in a Serving Bowl. Place all the prepared fruit into a large punch bowl or mixing bowl. Pour the chilled soda or honey water over the fruit. Gently stir to distribute the fruits evenly.

Step 4

Add plenty of ice cubes to keep the punch ice-cold and stir again gently to combine.

Step 5

Garnish and Serve. Top with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and refreshing aroma. Serve immediately in bowls or glasses with a spoon so everyone can enjoy the fruit pieces and liquid.

Author note

What Does the Hwachae Taste Like

Hwachae bowl tastes light, sweet, and incredibly refreshing, with the natural juiciness of fresh fruits like watermelon and strawberries mingling in a chilled, lightly sweetened base which is often lemon-lime soda or honey water and giving it a subtle fizz or gentle floral sweetness. It’s cool, fruity, and thirst-quenching, like a vibrant fruit salad in punch form, making it the perfect treat to beat the summer heat.

Ingredients for Hwachae recipe

Making Hwachae at home is surprisingly easy and highly customizable. Whether you’re making the classic Subak Hwachae fruit bowl (Watermelon Punch) or adding your own twist.