If you are craving a delightful snack that masterfully combines gooey cheese with a crispy, golden exterior, then this Korean Cheese Pancakes Recipe is just what you need. This recipe offers a wonderful twist on the classic Korean street snack, blending soft, airy dough with a sweet and cheesy filling that melts beautifully as you bite into it. Each pancake delivers a satisfying texture contrast and a subtle sweetness that keeps you coming back for more. It’s an irresistible treat that’s surprisingly simple to make and perfect for sharing with friends or family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving the perfect balance of texture and flavor in this Korean Cheese Pancakes Recipe. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from creating the tender dough to adding the signature cheesy sweetness that makes these pancakes unforgettable.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for the dough, providing structure and tenderness.
- 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise and become light and fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness to the dough.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances flavor and enhances the overall taste.
- 1/2 cup warm water (110°F/45°C): Activates the yeast for proper fermentation.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for dough): Adds moisture and softness to the dough.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: The star of the filling, gooey and melty.
- 2 tablespoons sugar (for filling): Adds a lovely sweetness that complements the cheese.
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon (optional): A warm spice that offers a delightful aroma and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying): Essential for achieving a crispy, golden crust.
How to Make Korean Cheese Pancakes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by mixing the all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Slowly add the warm water and vegetable oil, stirring until a cohesive dough begins to form. Once combined, knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This kneading process is key to developing the perfect chewy texture in your pancakes.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
Cover your dough with a damp cloth and leave it to rise in a warm spot for about an hour. You’ll know it’s ready once it has doubled in size, which means the yeast has worked its magic and the dough is airy and soft—perfect for making your pancakes light and fluffy.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Filling
While the dough is rising, mix the shredded mozzarella cheese with sugar and cinnamon (if using) in a small bowl. This sweet cheese filling will be the delightful surprise inside each pancake, ensuring every bite is rich, cheesy, and mildly sweet.
Step 4: Shape and Fill the Pancakes
After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release excess air. Divide it into 8 equal pieces, then flatten each piece into a small disc. Spoon a generous amount of the cheese filling onto the center of each disc, carefully folding the edges around the filling to form a sealed ball. This step guarantees no cheese escapes during cooking and creates those beautiful pockets of melted goodness inside.
Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Place the filled dough balls in the pan and gently press them down with a spatula to create slightly flattened pancakes. Fry each side for 2 to 3 minutes until they are golden brown and irresistibly crispy. The sizzling sound will signal that these pancakes are just about ready to enjoy!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the pancakes immediately while the cheese is warm and gooey. If you want to add a touch of extra indulgence, drizzle them with a little honey for an incredible sweet-savory contrast that will delight your taste buds.
How to Serve Korean Cheese Pancakes Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of sesame seeds can enhance the look and flavor of these pancakes. Fresh mint leaves or a drizzle of honey or syrup add a lovely finishing touch, balancing the richness with freshness or sweetness.
Side Dishes
Korean Cheese Pancakes pair wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a comforting snack. If you want to make a more substantial meal, consider serving them alongside light kimchi or a fresh salad to introduce some contrasting textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try stacking the pancakes and layering them with additional cheese or fruit preserves between layers for a playful presentation. You can also cut them into smaller pieces and serve with dipping sauces like soy sauce mixed with a touch of vinegar or a sweet chili sauce for an exciting flavor experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover pancakes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They tend to lose some crispiness but still remain tasty and satisfying.
Freezing
These pancakes freeze beautifully. After cooking and cooling completely, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. This way, you can enjoy your Korean Cheese Pancakes Recipe anytime without the extra prep.
Reheating
To reheat, the best method is to use a non-stick pan over medium heat, which will help restore the crispy exterior while warming the melty cheese inside. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make them soggy and unappetizing.
FAQs
Can I use cheese other than mozzarella?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is ideal for its meltiness, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack for different flavors. Just be mindful of the melting properties to keep that gooey center.
Is active dry yeast necessary for this recipe?
Yes, the yeast is crucial for making the dough rise and become fluffy. Without it, the pancakes would turn out dense and heavy, missing that light texture everyone loves in this recipe.
Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?
While this recipe calls for all-purpose flour, you can substitute a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Just keep in mind that the texture might differ slightly, and the dough may behave a little differently during kneading and rising.
Why add sugar to the cheese filling?
The sugar balances the saltiness of the cheese and adds a subtle sweetness that complements the crispy exterior of the pancake. It’s a small touch that makes a big flavor difference.
Can I bake instead of fry the pancakes?
You could try baking, but frying gives the pancakes their characteristic golden crispiness that is hard to replicate in the oven. If baking, use a well-oiled sheet and bake at a high temperature for a shorter time, though the texture will be different.
Final Thoughts
This Korean Cheese Pancakes Recipe has a special way of bringing joy to any table with its perfect harmony of textures and flavors. Whether you’re making these for a cozy snack, a party treat, or a fun cooking project, you’ll find warmth and satisfaction in every bite. I encourage you to try this recipe soon and share the happiness with everyone around you—it truly is a delightful culinary treasure!
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Korean Cheese Pancakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 27 minutes
- Yield: 8 pancakes (servings)
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Korean
Description
Delight in the warm, cheesy goodness of Korean Cheese Pancakes, a crispy-on-the-outside, gooey-on-the-inside treat. This recipe combines a soft yeast dough filled with melted mozzarella cheese, lightly sweetened with sugar and optionally spiced with cinnamon. Pan-fried to golden perfection, these pancakes make an irresistible snack or dessert, perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for dough)
Filling Ingredients
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon (optional)
For Frying
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Make the dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, active dry yeast, sugar, and salt. Add the warm water (110°F/45°C) and 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Mix until the dough begins to form, then knead on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let the dough rise: Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This fermentation step allows the dough to develop flavor and texture.
- Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese, 2 tablespoons sugar, and cinnamon if using. Mix well to evenly distribute the sugar and spice through the cheese.
- Shape the pancakes: Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles, then divide it into 8 equal portions. Flatten each portion into a small disc. Spoon a generous amount of cheese filling into the center of each disc, then fold the dough edges around the cheese, pinching securely to form a filled ball.
- Fry the pancakes: Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Place the filled dough balls seam-side down in the pan. Gently flatten each ball with a spatula to form a pancake shape. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy, and the cheese inside is melted and gooey.
- Serve hot: Remove the pancakes from the pan and serve immediately while the cheese is warm and melty. Optionally, drizzle with honey for a sweet contrast and enjoy your delicious Korean Cheese Pancakes!
Notes
- Warm water temperature is important to activate the yeast without killing it; about 110°F is ideal.
- Ensure the dough is tightly sealed around the cheese filling to prevent leaks during frying.
- Use a non-stick skillet to avoid sticking and reduce the amount of oil needed.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute mozzarella with a vegan cheese alternative.
- These pancakes are best enjoyed fresh, as reheating may reduce their crispiness.
