Hotteok (Sweet Korean Pancakes)

Hotteok is a traditional Korean street food known for its irresistible combination of crispy exterior and warm, gooey, sweet filling. These pancakes are typically stuffed with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts, making them a popular snack or dessert, especially during colder months.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hotteok offers a delightful contrast between the crunchy outer layer and the soft, sweet center. It’s simple to prepare, fun to make, and perfect for anyone craving a comforting homemade treat. The recipe is customizable, allowing you to try various fillings based on your preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Sweet rice flour (glutinous rice flour)
• Warm water
• Active dry yeast
• Sugar
• Salt
• Neutral oil (such as vegetable or canola oil)
• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Chopped nuts (such as walnuts, peanuts, or sunflower seeds)

Directions

1. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for about 10 minutes until foamy. Add salt and oil, then gradually stir in all-purpose flour and sweet rice flour. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Cover and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Make the filling: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and chopped nuts. Set aside.
3. Shape the pancakes: Once the dough has risen, oil your hands and divide the dough into equal portions. Flatten each portion into a disc, place a spoonful of the filling in the center, and pinch the edges to seal.
4. Cook the pancakes: Heat a lightly oiled pan over medium heat. Place the filled dough balls seam-side down and cook for 30 seconds. Press gently with a spatula to flatten. Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Reduce the heat, cover, and cook for another minute to melt the filling.
5. Serve: Let them cool for a minute before serving. Be cautious, as the filling can be very hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 to 8 pancakes
• Preparation Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including rising time)
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Different Fillings: Try sweet red bean paste, chocolate, or even fruit preserves for a twist on the classic.
• Savory Hotteok: Fill with cheese, cooked vegetables, or seasoned ground meat for a savory version.
• Alternative Dough Flavors: Add matcha powder or cocoa powder to the dough for a flavored variation.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cooled hotteok in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap each pancake in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in a pan, toaster oven, or air fryer to maintain crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it softens the texture.

FAQs

What is hotteok?

Hotteok is a Korean pancake made with yeast dough and filled with a sweet mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts, then pan-fried until golden.

Can I make hotteok without sweet rice flour?

Yes, but the texture will be slightly less chewy. Sweet rice flour enhances the chewiness that hotteok is known for.

Is yeast necessary for this recipe?

Yes, yeast is essential to give the dough its characteristic rise and chewiness.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, instant yeast can be used and does not need to be proofed in water beforehand.

Can I bake hotteok instead of frying?

Frying is traditional and gives the best texture, but you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) until golden if you prefer a lower-fat option.

How can I keep the filling from leaking out?

Ensure the dough is sealed tightly around the filling and avoid overfilling.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be refrigerated overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and cooking.

What kind of nuts are best for the filling?

Walnuts, peanuts, and sunflower seeds work well, but you can use any chopped nuts you prefer.

Can I make mini versions?

Yes, simply use smaller portions of dough and filling. Reduce cooking time slightly for minis.

Are hotteok gluten-free?

Not traditionally, but you can make them gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free sweet rice flour.

Conclusion

Hotteok is a delicious Korean treat that combines crispiness, chewiness, and sweet warmth in every bite. Whether you enjoy them traditionally or try new variations, these pancakes are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Perfect for cold days or any time you want a comforting homemade dessert.

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