Refreshing Korean Soju Yogurt Cocktail: An Easy 3-Ingredient Recipe

Experience a delightful fusion of traditional Korean spirit and creamy sweetness with this incredibly easy Soju yogurt cocktail. Requiring just three simple ingredients, this unique beverage offers a sweet, tangy, and wonderfully refreshing taste that’s perfect for any occasion. Dive into the world of Korean cocktails and discover your new favorite drink!

About This Soju Yogurt Cocktail

Prepare to be pleasantly surprised by this Soju yogurt cocktail. It’s a beautifully balanced drink that brings together the crispness of Korean Soju with the smooth, tangy notes of a yogurt drink, all brightened by the fizz of lemon-lime soda. This isn’t just another cocktail; it’s a delightful experience that stands out from typical Western alcoholic beverages, offering a unique flavor profile that’s both exotic and incredibly approachable. The moment you take your first sip, you’ll understand why this easy Soju mix has become a beloved classic.

While the idea of a yogurt-based alcoholic drink might sound unconventional to some, it’s a staple in Korean drinking culture and has gained immense popularity across Asia. Its widespread appeal is a testament to its irresistible taste and refreshing qualities. What makes this particular Soju cocktail so special is its incredible versatility. With endless possibilities for customization, from adjusting the strength of the Soju to experimenting with various flavored versions or simply tweaking the ingredient ratios, you can effortlessly tailor this drink to perfectly match your personal preferences. It’s a fantastic conversation starter and an ideal choice for those looking to explore new and exciting flavors in their home bar, offering a sweet, creamy, and truly refreshing experience.

What Exactly Is Soju?

Soju is Korea’s national spirit, a clear, distilled beverage typically made from fermented grains like rice, wheat, or barley. Its characteristically smooth and clean flavor makes it an incredibly versatile base for a wide array of cocktails. Unlike many spirits, Soju’s alcohol content can vary significantly, ranging from a mild 16% ABV (Alcohol By Volume), similar to a strong wine, up to a potent 45% ABV, rivaling many vodkas. This broad spectrum allows for great flexibility in crafting drinks, making it suitable for both casual sipping and more potent concoctions. The subtle sweetness inherent in many Soju varieties also contributes to its pleasant drinkability.

The adaptability of Soju is one of its greatest assets. It harmonizes beautifully with an extensive palette of flavors, allowing for cocktails that span the taste spectrum from delightfully sweet and fruity to intriguingly savory and even spicy. This makes it a bartender’s dream and a home entertainer’s secret weapon, especially for those looking to create a unique Korean alcoholic drink. Its relatively neutral base ensures it complements other ingredients rather than overpowering them, making it an excellent choice for crafting a delicious Soju mix.

My first encounter with Soju dates back to the era when the Korean pop sensation PSY took the world by storm. His cultural impact even extended to launching his own line of Soju, which naturally piqued my curiosity. It was during this exciting period that I began exploring Soju cocktails, eventually discovering and refining this classic Soju yogurt cocktail recipe into my own signature version. It’s a testament to how global trends can inspire wonderful culinary and mixological discoveries, proving that a DIY Soju cocktail can be both simple and spectacularly satisfying.

(Note: This article is an updated and expanded version of content originally published on November 22, 2013, bringing you even more insights and details about this amazing Korean spirit and its perfect pairing with yogurt.)

Essential Ingredients for Your Soju Cocktail

Crafting the perfect Soju yogurt cocktail starts with selecting the right ingredients. Despite its simple three-component list, each element plays a crucial role in achieving that signature sweet, creamy, and bubbly balance, making it a truly refreshing drink.

Soju

This clear, distilled Korean spirit is the heart of our cocktail. Soju comes in a fascinating array of variations, not only in terms of flavor but also in its alcohol by volume (ABV) content. You can find everything from milder versions around 16% ABV to stronger spirits hitting 45% ABV. For this easy Soju recipe, we often lean towards a higher ABV (e.g., 45%) unflavored Soju to give the cocktail a noticeable kick without overpowering the other delicate flavors. Unflavored Soju provides a clean canvas, allowing the yogurt and soda to shine, while flavored Sojus can introduce exciting new dimensions. Consider trying various brands like Jinro, Chum Churum, or Good Day, as each offers a slightly different nuance.

Drinkable Yogurt

The secret to the creamy tang in this cocktail lies in the drinkable yogurt. Our top recommendation is Yakult, a popular probiotic dairy drink known for its distinct sweet and slightly tart flavor. Yakult’s consistency is ideal – not too thick, not too thin – and its subtle citrus notes complement Soju beautifully. While Yakult is a fantastic choice and widely available in many grocery stores and Asian markets, you can certainly use other brands of sweetened, drinkable yogurt for your Yakult cocktail. However, a word of caution: we strongly advise against using Greek yogurt-based drinkable yogurts. Their typically higher protein content often results in a much thicker, more tart consistency that can unbalance the cocktail’s delicate flavor profile, making it too sour for most palates, thus hindering the refreshing quality of the drink.

Lemon-Lime Soda

To introduce that refreshing effervescence and a touch of sweetness, a lemon-lime soda is essential. Sprite is our go-to choice for its consistent flavor and balanced sweetness, but any brand of lemon-lime soda you enjoy, such as 7UP or Sierra Mist, will work wonderfully. The bubbles add a lively texture that makes this a truly effervescent and refreshing cocktail. For those who prefer a less sweet beverage or wish to control the sugar content, a fantastic alternative is to use sparkling water or club soda. If you opt for sparkling water, we recommend adding a splash of simple syrup, a quarter ounce at a time, to achieve your desired level of sweetness and ensure the cocktail remains perfectly balanced without excessive sugar.

Must-Have Equipment for This Recipe

One of the beauties of this Soju yogurt cocktail recipe is that it doesn’t require an elaborate setup. You’ll only need a few basic bar tools to whip up this delicious drink:

• Cocktail Shaker: Essential for thoroughly chilling and combining the Soju and yogurt. A good shake ensures a perfectly integrated, creamy texture.
• Cocktail Strainer: To ensure a smooth drink, free from ice shards, as you pour into your glass. A Hawthorne or Julep strainer works perfectly.
• Cocktail Stirring Spoon: Handy for a quick stir after adding your soda, ensuring all components are perfectly mixed without over-diluting.
• Jigger or Measuring Spoons: For precise measurements of your Soju and yogurt, guaranteeing a consistent and delicious cocktail every time. Accuracy is key for balance.

As for serving, the presentation can elevate the experience. The glasses featured in our photos were sourced from IKEA, but you can find similar stylish options online. Consider these Viski spinning whiskey glasses for a touch of elegance and fun, or simply use any rock glasses or tumblers you have on hand.

How to Make a Soju Yogurt Cocktail: Step-by-Step

Creating this delightful Korean Soju yogurt cocktail is incredibly straightforward, making it perfect for both seasoned mixologists and home enthusiasts alike. Follow these simple steps for a perfectly refreshing drink every time. This easy Soju recipe comes together in minutes!

The Perfect Shake

Begin by filling your cocktail shaker about two-thirds full with fresh, good-quality ice. Next, carefully pour in the measured amounts of Soju and your chosen drinkable yogurt. Secure the lid tightly onto the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. The goal is to ensure the ingredients are not only thoroughly combined but also perfectly chilled. You’ll know it’s ready when the outside of the shaker feels noticeably cold and frosty. This chilling process is crucial for the optimal taste and creamy texture of your Soju mix.

Once sufficiently chilled, use your cocktail strainer to strain the creamy Soju and yogurt mixture into your serving glasses. These glasses should ideally also be filled with fresh ice to keep your drink wonderfully cold and refreshing from the first sip to the last. Discard the ice from the shaker as it will be somewhat diluted.

Add the Sparkle

The final touch is the effervescence that completes this refreshing cocktail. Top off each glass with your preferred lemon-lime soda, such as Sprite, or sparkling water if you’ve chosen that option for a less sweet profile. The soda adds a lively fizz and a touch more sweetness, beautifully balancing the tanginess of the yogurt. Give the cocktail a gentle stir with a cocktail stirring spoon—just enough to integrate the soda without losing too much of its carbonation. Avoid over-stirring. Serve immediately and enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors and textures in your homemade Soju at home creation!

Tips, Tricks, and Variations for Your Soju Yogurt Cocktail

While the classic Soju yogurt cocktail is fantastic on its own, its simple base makes it incredibly adaptable. Here are some ideas to help you customize and elevate your drinking experience, transforming this easy Soju recipe into a bespoke creation every time:

• Experiment with Flavored Soju: The world of Soju offers a vast array of fruit-flavored options, such as strawberry, peach, grape, apple, and even grapefruit. Swapping unflavored Soju for a flavored variety can completely transform your cocktail. For instance, a peach-flavored Soju would enhance the sweetness and add a delicate fruity aroma, while a grapefruit Soju could introduce a pleasant tartness and brighter notes. Don’t be afraid to mix and match; I’ve had great success combining strawberry and peach Soju for a layered fruit profile, creating a truly unique Soju mix.
• Tailor the Ratios to Your Taste: This recipe is a starting point, a canvas for your personal preferences. Do you prefer a bolder, stronger drink? Increase the Soju. Craving more creaminess and tang? Add a little extra yogurt, perhaps even a flavored drinkable yogurt to amplify certain notes. If you find it too sweet or too strong, simply adjust the amount of lemon-lime soda or sparkling water. Play around with the proportions until you discover your ideal balance for a perfect sweet Soju drink or a creamier variation.
• Opt for Sparkling Water for Less Sweetness: If you’re mindful of sugar intake or simply prefer a less sweet cocktail, replace the lemon-lime soda with plain sparkling water or club soda. This gives you full control over the sweetness. To achieve the perfect balance, add simple syrup (a 1:1 mixture of sugar and water) gradually, about ¼ ounce at a time, tasting after each addition until it’s just right for your palate. You can also experiment with flavored simple syrups like ginger or mint.
• Infuse with Fresh Fruit: Elevate the natural fruit notes by muddling fresh fruits directly into your shaker before adding the Soju and yogurt. Berries like strawberries or raspberries, slices of ripe peach, chunks of mango, or even a few cucumber slices can add incredible depth and freshness. The muddling process releases their juices and aromas, integrating them seamlessly into the drink. This is an excellent way to create a seasonal DIY Soju cocktail.
• Add a Garnish for Visual Appeal: Don’t underestimate the power of a simple garnish! A fresh mint sprig, a slice of lime or lemon, a few fresh berries (like blueberries or raspberries), or even a delicate edible flower can add visual appeal and an aromatic touch that enhances the overall drinking experience. Garnishes aren’t just for looks; they often contribute to the aroma, which is a significant part of taste.

Craving more easy cocktail recipes? Explore our collection: Lemon Mojito | Limoncello Spritz | Aperol Spritz | Strawberry Mimosa

Soju vs. Vodka: Understanding Alcohol Content

A common question arises regarding Soju’s potency compared to other spirits, particularly vodka. The truth is, there’s no single answer, as Soju’s alcohol content is remarkably diverse. While some Soju varieties are quite mild, hovering around 16-20% ABV (Alcohol By Volume), making them comparable to a strong glass of wine or sake, other premium or traditional Sojus can reach 40-45% ABV, putting them firmly in the same league as standard vodka. When choosing Soju for your cocktail, be sure to check the label for its ABV to ensure you achieve your desired strength. For a cocktail with a noticeable kick, opt for higher proof Soju, similar to how you would choose vodka for a strong mixed drink. This variability is one of the unique characteristics of this versatile Korean liquor.

Can I Use Flavored Soju in This Cocktail?

Absolutely, and we highly encourage it! Flavored Soju varieties are a fantastic way to introduce new dimensions to your Soju yogurt cocktail. The market is rich with options like strawberry, peach, grape, apple, and even tropical fruit flavors such as mango. These fruity variations blend exceptionally well with the creamy tang of the yogurt and the citrus notes of the lemon-lime soda. When experimenting, start with flavors you already enjoy in other beverages. Strawberry, peach, and mango are particularly popular choices that create a delightful, harmonious flavor profile in this creamy, bubbly concoction, enhancing its sweet Soju drink appeal. This allows for endless customization of your Soju mix.

Adding Fresh Fruit to Your Soju Cocktail

Infusing your Soju yogurt cocktail with fresh fruit is an excellent way to elevate its flavor and aesthetic appeal. It’s a simple trick that adds complexity and a burst of natural sweetness. Before you add your Soju and yogurt to the shaker, place a few pieces of your chosen fruit at the bottom. Berries like raspberries, blueberries, or sliced strawberries are wonderful for their sweet-tart juice. Peaches or mango chunks can add a lush, tropical sweetness, enhancing the creamy Soju cocktail experience. Gently muddle the fruit with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release its juices and essential oils. Then proceed with the recipe as usual. This method ensures the fruit’s essence is thoroughly integrated into the drink, creating a more vibrant and customized cocktail experience. Don’t forget to add a few extra fruit pieces as a colorful garnish to your Soju at home drink!

Choosing the Best Yogurt for Your Drink

The type of drinkable yogurt you select is paramount to the success of this Soju cocktail. Our top recommendation, and the one we typically use, is Yakult. Yakult is a globally recognized sweetened probiotic dairy drink, readily available in most large grocery stores, health food sections, or, more commonly, Asian markets. It comes in convenient small bottles, making it perfect for individual cocktail servings. We appreciate Yakult not only for its probiotic benefits but also for its distinctive sweet, slightly tart, and subtle citrus flavor profile, which harmonizes exceptionally well with Soju and lemon-lime soda, creating an ideal Yakult cocktail.

While Yakult is ideal, you can use other brands of sweetened drinkable yogurts. Look for options that have a similar consistency – not too thick, not too watery – and a balanced sweetness. However, a crucial piece of advice: avoid drinkable yogurts made with Greek yogurt. Greek yogurts, even in drinkable form, tend to be significantly thicker and possess a much more pronounced tartness. This intense tang can easily overpower the other ingredients in this delicate cocktail, resulting in an unbalanced and overly sour taste that detracts from the intended refreshing experience. Stick to traditional, lighter drinkable yogurts for the best results in your drinkable yogurt cocktail.

How Strong Is a Soju Yogurt Cocktail?

The strength of your Soju yogurt cocktail largely depends on the specific Soju you choose. As mentioned, Soju’s alcohol content can vary wildly, from roughly 16% ABV (like a robust wine) to a potent 45% ABV (comparable to vodka). If you opt for a higher-proof Soju, such as one with 40-45% ABV, your cocktail will be quite strong, similar to a standard mixed drink you’d get at a bar. Using a lower-proof Soju will result in a lighter, more sessionable drink. Additionally, the ratio of Soju to yogurt and soda also impacts the final strength. By experimenting with these variables, you can easily adjust the potency to suit your preference, whether you’re looking for a gentle buzz or a more potent concoction. Always drink responsibly, especially when exploring the varying strengths of Korean liquor.

Other Delicious Mixers for Soju

Soju’s neutral and clean flavor profile makes it incredibly versatile, often compared to vodka in its adaptability. This means that if a mixer works well with vodka, there’s a good chance it will pair beautifully with Soju. Beyond the classic lemon-lime soda and yogurt combination in this easy Soju recipe, here are some other fantastic mixers to try with Soju, allowing you to unleash your inner mixologist and create a variety of Soju mixes:

• Fruit Juices: Classic choices like cranberry juice, orange juice, and pineapple juice are always a hit. For a more exotic twist, try tart grapefruit juice or a blend of tropical juices for a refreshing drink.
• Other Sodas: Beyond lemon-lime, consider ginger ale for a spicy kick, tonic water for a bitter edge (perhaps with a lime wedge), or even a clear fruit soda like grape or peach soda for an extra layer of sweetness and fruit flavor in your sweet Soju drink.
• Iced Tea: Unsweetened or lightly sweetened iced tea, especially green tea, barley tea (boricha), or even black tea, can create a surprisingly refreshing and complex drink, offering a sophisticated twist to your Soju at home experience.
• Sparkling Water & Syrups: For maximum control over sweetness and flavor, combine sparkling water with various fruit syrups (like grenadine, raspberry, or mango syrup) or simple infused syrups (ginger, mint). This lets you craft a truly customized DIY Soju cocktail.
• Milk-based Drinks: Beyond drinkable yogurt, some enjoy Soju mixed with regular milk or sweetened condensed milk for a richer, creamier texture, often seen in specific Korean drinking games or styles. This creates a different kind of creamy Soju cocktail.
• Energy Drinks: While not for everyone, Soju bombs (Soju + beer) and Soju mixed with energy drinks are popular choices for a quick, potent pick-me-up in some social settings, offering a different kind of Korean alcoholic drink experience.

Soju’s ability to seamlessly integrate with so many different flavors makes it a wonderful spirit to experiment with, whether you’re crafting simple two-ingredient mixes or complex cocktails that showcase its unique qualities.

Need some inspiration for happy hour? Check out my cocktail recipes page for more creative ideas and refreshing drinks!

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Your Soju Yogurt Cocktail

The Soju yogurt cocktail, with its unique balance of sweet, creamy, and tangy notes, is incredibly versatile when it comes to food pairings. Generally, I find it pairs exceptionally well with bold, savory, and often spicy flavors, particularly those found in Korean cuisine and street food. The refreshing qualities of the drink act as a wonderful counterpoint to rich or fiery dishes, making it an ideal companion for a variety of meals or appetizers. This creamy Soju cocktail can beautifully balance intense flavors.

Savory Snacks and Appetizers:

• Crispy Korean BBQ Chicken Wings: The robust flavors of a Korean BBQ sauce, often sweet and spicy, are perfectly cut by the creamy tang of the cocktail. The crispy texture also provides a satisfying contrast, making them an irresistible match. Try our recipe for Crispy Korean BBQ Chicken Wings.
• Creamy Crab Rangoon Dip with Crispy Wonton Chips: This indulgent appetizer, with its rich, savory filling and crunchy dippers, finds a refreshing balance with the Soju yogurt cocktail. The creaminess of both complements each other beautifully. Our Crab Rangoon Dip is a must-try for a delightful pairing.
• Kimchi Pancakes (Kimchijeon): The fermented spice of kimchi in a crispy pancake makes for an excellent textural and flavor contrast. The tang of the pancake resonates with the yogurt, while the cocktail’s sweetness mellows the kimchi.
• Tteokbokki (Spicy Rice Cakes): For those who love a fiery kick, the sweetness and creaminess of the cocktail can temper the intense heat of tteokbokki, providing a much-needed cooling effect.
• Mandu (Korean Dumplings): Whether steamed, pan-fried, or deep-fried, savory dumplings, especially those filled with meat and vegetables, are always a fantastic companion to a refreshing drink like this Soju mix.

Hearty Main Meals:

• Spicy Kimchi Udon: The bold, fermented flavors and heat of kimchi udon are beautifully mellowed by the cool, creamy cocktail. This is a quick and satisfying meal that balances complex flavors. Check out our Spicy Kimchi Udon recipe.
• Savory Curry Udon: Another fantastic noodle dish, the rich, aromatic curry pairs wonderfully with the bright notes of the cocktail, creating a harmonious and comforting dining experience. Try our Curry Udon.
• Spicy Chicken Ramen: A comforting bowl of spicy ramen, whether homemade or from an instant pot, creates a dynamic duo with this refreshing drink. The cocktail helps to cleanse the palate between flavorful bites. Find a great recipe for Instant Pot Spicy Chicken Ramen.
• Korean BBQ (Grilled Meats): The rich, smoky, and often sweet-savory profiles of grilled meats like Galbi (short ribs) or Bulgogi (marinated beef) are incredibly well-suited to the cleansing and refreshing properties of the Soju yogurt cocktail. It acts as a perfect palate cleanser for heavy, flavorful dishes.

When selecting food to serve with this cocktail, think about creating a balance – let the food bring the spice and savoriness, and let the cocktail provide a cool, sweet, and creamy counterpoint, enhancing both the meal and the drink.

More Sparkling Cocktail Inspirations

If you’re a fan of bubbly drinks and refreshing concoctions, you’ll love exploring these other sparkling cocktail recipes that are perfect for any gathering or a quiet evening in:

• A Sparkling Whiskey Sour offers a delightful twist on the classic, introducing a lively fizz that makes it lighter and brighter without losing any of its beloved complexity. It’s a truly refreshing cocktail.
• For a burst of fruity freshness, this Blackberry Gin Fizz combines succulent fresh blackberries with aromatic gin, topped with a sparkling finish for an invigorating taste.
• And for those who appreciate a touch of bitterness with their fizz, this incredibly easy Aperol Soda is a must-try. It’s the perfect light and bubbly drink to highlight the distinctive flavor of Aperol, offering another fantastic refreshing drink option.

We hope you’re inspired to try this fantastic Soju yogurt cocktail recipe! If you do, we would be absolutely thrilled if you could take a moment to give this recipe a star rating on the recipe card below and/or leave a comment! Your feedback means the world to us, and we genuinely love hearing about your experiences in making our recipes. We also dedicate time to respond to every single comment and are always happy to answer any questions you might have about this easy Soju mix or other Korean alcoholic drinks.

Don’t forget to tag us on Instagram if you share your creation! Seeing our recipes come to life in your homes – like this delightful Soju at home cocktail – is truly our favorite part, and it means so much to see your photos. It really means the world to us!