🌿 Why Is Everyone Obsessed with Mugwort Desserts in Korea This Spring?


A cozy, anime-style Korean café in spring with pastel tones and blooming flowers, featuring a character enjoying a mugwort latte and cake
A cozy, anime-style Korean café in spring with pastel tones and blooming flowers, featuring a character enjoying a mugwort latte and cake.

Every spring in Korea, a soft green hue quietly takes over social media feeds, menus, and even department stores. That color? Mugwort green.

Once considered a humble ingredient found in grandmothers' kitchens, mugwort (쑥) has transformed into a modern seasonal sensation—especially when it comes to desserts. From mugwort lattes to baumkuchen and cream cakes, Korea's spring dessert scene is blooming with flavor and tradition.

✅ Why Is Mugwort a Big Deal Right Now?

ReasonExplanation
✅ Seasonal IngredientMugwort is harvested in March–April, when it's freshest and most fragrant.
✅ Healthy ImageRich in antioxidants and detox properties, it's seen as a "clean dessert" option.
✅ Retro CharmBlends traditional flavors with trendy modern presentation.
✅ Instagram-ReadyThe soft green color and earthy texture are perfect for social media aesthetics.

🍵 How to Make a Mugwort Injeolmi Latte at Home

Bring the café vibe home with this soothing spring drink that balances earthy tones with cozy sweetness.

Ingredients:

  • 1–2 tsp mugwort powder (or 1 tbsp mugwort syrup)

  • 200ml warm milk

  • 1 tsp honey or jocheong (rice syrup)

  • 2 pieces of injeolmi (Korean rice cake)

  • A sprinkle of roasted soybean powder (konggaru)

  • Optional: whipped cream

Instructions:

  1. Warm the milk and dissolve the mugwort powder.

  2. Add honey/syrup to taste.

  3. Place injeolmi pieces in a mug and pour the mugwort milk over them.

  4. Top with whipped cream and soybean powder if desired.

  5. Stir gently before drinking for full flavor.

Pro Tip: Use fresh injeolmi from a local rice cake shop and microwave for 10 seconds to restore softness.

🍰 Where to Buy Mugwort Baumkuchen & More in Korea

LocationBrandSpecialtyNotes
OnlineMonsusuSeasonal premium mugwort baumkuchenLimited spring only
Seoul (Seongsu)T. GreyKnown for marbled mugwort baum with layered textureDM for order
Busan (Jeonpo)SSOOM DessertMugwort cream baumkuchen with gelato comboIn-store only
JejuCafe IslandMugwort scones + cakes with ocean viewIn-person purchase only

Mugwort desserts are often seasonal, so check Instagram or Naver Smart Store for availability.

💼 Health Benefits of Mugwort in Desserts

CompoundBenefit
LuteolinAntioxidant, anti-aging
Beta-caroteneSkin & eye health
Dietary FiberDigestion support
Vitamins A/C/KImmune boost, circulation, fatigue recovery

"Sweet but guilt-free!" — That's the common review. Mugwort's clean finish and nostalgic aroma make it both comforting and refreshing.

📲 Social Buzz: What Koreans Are Saying

“Mugwort injeolmi latte is spring in a cup."

“The baumkuchen? It tastes like a cherry blossom picnic!"

“Smells like my childhood, tastes like trend heaven."

“That subtle bitterness and creamy sweetness... unmatched."

🌟 Final Thoughts: Mugwort Is Korea's Spring Flavor

Mugwort is more than just a seasonal ingredient in Korea—it's a nostalgic symbol of spring with a modern twist. From trendy cafes to homemade recipes, it brings warmth, wellness, and aesthetic charm.

If you're visiting Korea in March or April, don’t miss out on this earthy, elegant taste of spring.

Location: 대한민국

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