Hoddeok (호떡): Sweet and Gooey Korean Pancakes

Introduction

Hoddeok (호떡), a beloved Korean street food, is a warm, chewy pancake with a delightful sweet filling. Typically enjoyed during the colder months, these pancakes are filled with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts, which melts into a syrupy filling as they cook. The crispy exterior combined with the gooey, sweet center makes Hoddeok an irresistible snack or dessert. Whether you’re craving a warm treat on a chilly day or simply want to indulge in a unique Korean delicacy, Hoddeok is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love Hoddeok

  1. Warm and Comforting: Hoddeok’s soft, chewy dough and warm, gooey filling make it the perfect treat to enjoy on a cold day.

  2. Sweet and Nutty Flavor: The combination of brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts creates a deliciously rich, sweet, and nutty flavor that’s hard to resist.

  3. Fun to Make: Hoddeok is easy to make at home, and you can get creative with the fillings by adding chocolate, red bean paste, or even savory ingredients for a twist.

  4. Perfect Snack or Dessert: Whether you’re serving it as a snack, dessert, or a fun treat for family and friends, Hoddeok is sure to be a hit.

How to Enjoy Hoddeok

  1. Serve Hot: Hoddeok is best enjoyed fresh off the skillet, while the exterior is still crispy and the inside is gooey and warm.

  2. Customize Your Fillings: While the traditional filling includes brown sugar and cinnamon, you can easily switch it up with chocolate, Nutella, or even savory fillings like cheese and vegetables.

 

With its sweet filling and warm, comforting texture, Hoddeok is a must-try Korean snack that’s perfect for cozy afternoons or winter treats. Easy to make and endlessly delicious, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and enjoy the irresistible flavors of this popular Korean street food!

Hoddeok (호떡) – Korean Sweet Pancakes

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 cup warm water

  • 2 tablespoons sugar

  • 1 tablespoon dry yeast

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

  • 1/4 cup sweet rice flour (optional, for extra chewiness)

For the Filling:

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar

  • 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or peanuts (optional)

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional for extra sweetness)

For Frying:

  • 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Dough:

    • In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the sugar and dry yeast in the warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast starts to foam.

    • Add the all-purpose flour, sweet rice flour (if using), salt, and vegetable oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a soft, sticky dough forms.

    • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

  2. Prepare the Filling:

    • In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, chopped nuts, cinnamon, and honey (if using). This will be the sweet, gooey filling for the hoddeok.

  3. Shape the Dough:

    • Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and roll each portion into a ball.

    • Flatten each ball slightly with your hands, place about 1 tablespoon of the filling in the center, and carefully fold the edges of the dough over the filling to seal it. Shape it back into a ball, ensuring the filling is fully enclosed.

  4. Fry the Hoddeok:

    • Heat 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.

    • Place the filled dough balls in the skillet, seam side down, and cook for about 30 seconds.

    • Using a spatula, gently press down on each hoddeok to flatten it into a round pancake shape. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the hoddeok is golden brown and crispy, and the filling has melted inside.

  5. Serve:

    • Once the hoddeok is cooked through and crispy on both sides, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

    • Serve hot and enjoy the sweet, gooey filling!

Optional Variations:

  • Sweet Fillings: Try adding chocolate chips or sweet red bean paste to the filling for a different flavor.

  • Savory Hoddeok: For a savory version, replace the sugar filling with a mix of cheese, vegetables, or ground meat.

Tips:

  • Dough Handling: The dough will be sticky, so oil your hands slightly to make it easier to work with.

  • Filling Ideas: You can also experiment with different fillings, such as sesame seeds, coconut flakes, or even Nutella for a modern twist!

 

This Hoddeok recipe creates chewy, crispy pancakes filled with a sweet and nutty center, making it a delightful snack or dessert. Enjoy the rich flavors of Korean street food right in your own home!