Red Bean Slush is a chilled, smooth, and lightly sweet drink that blends cooked red beans with milk and ice. It’s a popular dessert beverage in many Asian countries, especially during warmer months. The texture is creamy but icy, and the flavor offers a pleasant balance between the nutty, earthy profile of adzuki beans and the cool richness of milk. I find it incredibly refreshing, and it only takes a few minutes to make using minimal ingredients. Whether I want something light after a meal or a mid-day treat, this slush hits the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy and fast it is to make this Red Bean Slush. It doesn’t need any fancy equipment—just a blender and a few pantry staples. The flavor is unique yet comforting, and I can adjust the sweetness or milkiness based on what I’m craving. It’s also a great way to enjoy red beans in a new, fun form—especially if I have leftover red bean paste at home. Plus, it’s a nice alternative to sugary sodas or overly sweet iced drinks.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup smooth red bean paste – I use sweetened adzuki bean paste that’s soft and easily scoopable

• 1 cup milk – Whole milk works best for a creamier texture, but I sometimes use 2% or even non-dairy alternatives like soy or almond milk

• 1 cup ice cubes – I prefer standard ice cubes but crushed ice can give a finer slush

• 1 tablespoon sweetened whole red beans – This is optional, but I like to use it as a chunky topping for contrast

• Optional toppings – A swirl of whipped cream or a light drizzle of sweetened condensed milk can enhance the richness

Directions

1. Add the ice cubes to a blender and pulse until they break down into small shards or a snowy texture.

2. Add the red bean paste and milk to the blender with the crushed ice.

3. Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined. The consistency should be icy and creamy.

4. Taste the slush and adjust if needed. If I want it thinner, I add a splash more milk. For extra sweetness, a teaspoon of sugar or syrup can be added.

5. Pour the slush into serving glasses.

6. Spoon sweetened red beans over the top if using, and add any optional toppings like whipped cream or condensed milk.

7. Serve immediately while cold and icy.

Servings And Timing

• Servings: 2

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Total Time: 5 minutes

Variations

• Coconut Milk Twist: I sometimes substitute regular milk with coconut milk for a more tropical flavor. It pairs beautifully with red beans.

• Ice Cream Float: For a richer dessert, I scoop a bit of vanilla or red bean ice cream on top.

• Vegan Version: I switch to almond or oat milk and skip dairy-based toppings to keep it fully plant-based.

• Extra Texture: Instead of smooth paste, I blend in a few whole cooked red beans for a more rustic mouthfeel.

• Matcha Fusion: I add half a teaspoon of matcha powder for a green tea version that adds complexity and color.

Storage/Reheating

Red Bean Slush is best enjoyed fresh, right after blending, because the ice melts quickly and changes the texture. If I need to prepare it a bit in advance:

• I keep the red bean paste and milk mixture in the fridge

• I blend with ice only when I’m ready to serve

• If leftovers become watery, I re-blend with more ice to restore the slush texture

This drink is not suitable for reheating, since it’s meant to be served cold.

FAQs

Can I Make Red Bean Paste From Scratch?

Yes, I cook adzuki beans until soft, mash them, and then sweeten with sugar over low heat until thick. It takes time but tastes fantastic when homemade.

What Type Of Ice Works Best?

I use standard ice cubes, but crushed ice blends quicker and gives a finer slush. Both work well depending on the texture I’m going for.

Is This Drink Very Sweet?

Not overly. The sweetness comes mainly from the red bean paste. If I want it sweeter, I simply add condensed milk or syrup during blending or topping.

Can I Use Canned Red Beans?

Yes, if the canned red beans are sweetened and soft, they work well for both blending and topping. Just drain excess liquid before using.

How Do I Serve This For Guests?

I serve it in tall glasses or dessert cups, topped with whole red beans and a drizzle of condensed milk. It looks beautiful and feels special without much effort.

Conclusion

This Red Bean Slush is one of my go-to treats when I want something cool, simple, and satisfying. It’s a great way to use up red bean paste and transform it into something refreshing. I love how customizable it is—I can change the milk, adjust sweetness, or add fun toppings to make it my own. If I’m craving something light yet indulgent, this slush is the answer.