Korean Cheese Pancake Recipe

If you adore snacks that are gooey, crisp, and just a hint sweet, prepare to fall absolutely in love with this Korean Cheese Pancake! Imagine golden pancakes—crisp outside, melty cheese within, and an irresistible balance of potato and sugar. This playful, cozy dish makes a stellar after-school treat, party appetizer, or comfort food snack, and it comes together in a snap with humble ingredients you probably have on hand. Whether you’re new to Korean street food or already a fan, this cheesy delight is about to become your next craving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Korean Cheese Pancake comes together with just a handful of ingredients, but each plays a starring role. The potato provides the base and a perfectly chewy bite, while a touch of brown sugar balances the savory, salty cheese. Here’s what you’ll need—and how each helps create the magic:

• Peeled potatoes (250 g): Grate them fresh for a wonderfully soft interior and a bit of crisp on the edges.
• Mozzarella cheese (50 g): Opt for shredded for easy melting; cubes give slightly bigger cheese pulls!
• Brown sugar (20 g): Just the right hint of caramel-like sweetness, balancing every bite.
• Cornstarch or cornflour (25 g): This binds the potato mixture, giving the pancakes their signature chewy-yet-tender texture.
• Cooking oil: Helps develop that crispy, golden crust you know and love in Korean Cheese Pancake.
• Pinch of salt: Essential to bring out both the cheese’s savoriness and the potato’s natural flavor.

How to Make Korean Cheese Pancake

Step 1: Prep Your Potatoes

Start by peeling and grating your potatoes. Grating gives a finer texture that binds more easily and fries up beautifully. Once grated, squeeze out as much excess water as you can—either with your hands or a clean kitchen towel. This step is crucial for that crispy exterior and prevents any soggy pancakes!

Step 2: Mix the Magic Together

In a medium bowl, combine your grated (and well-drained) potatoes, brown sugar, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Give it a thorough mix—you’re aiming for a dough-like consistency so the pancakes hold their shape and encase the cheese perfectly.

Step 3: Shape Your Pancakes

Divide the potato mixture into equal, palm-sized portions. Flatten each into a small disc right in your hand. The mixture should feel slightly sticky but still easy to work with. If it’s falling apart, add just a touch more cornstarch to help bind things together.

Step 4: Cheese Stuffing Time

Now comes the fun part! Place some mozzarella in the center of each disc. Gently fold the edges over the cheese, pinching to seal, then reshape into a thick pancake. This generous cheese pocket is what makes the Korean Cheese Pancake so swoon-worthy.

Step 5: Pan-Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat a generous swirl of cooking oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. When hot, lay in your pancakes and fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until they’re deeply golden brown and irresistibly crisp. Drain briefly on paper towels before serving for the perfect finish.

How to Serve Korean Cheese Pancake

Garnishes

The magic of Korean Cheese Pancake is that it’s stellar on its own, but a few simple garnishes can really make each bite pop. Try a sprinkle of chopped scallions, a dash of toasted sesame seeds, or a drizzle of honey for sweetness—or serve with a quick dipping sauce of soy sauce mixed with a dab of vinegar and chili flakes for a punchy twist.

Side Dishes

Round out your Korean Cheese Pancake experience by setting it alongside classic Korean banchan like kimchi, pickled radish, or a petite salad of crisp cucumbers. These fresh, tangy sides balance the rich, cheesy interior and keep your snack spread exciting.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving a crowd, try cutting the pancakes into wedges and stacking them on a pretty platter with little toothpicks. Or, make mini versions—bite-sized and perfect for party trays! For brunch, pair the pancakes with a runny-yolked egg for a decadent breakfast upgrade. However you serve it, these pancakes steal the show.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow wind up with leftover Korean Cheese Pancake (trust me, it’s rare!), wrap them tightly or store in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to two days. Just be sure the pancakes have cooled to room temperature to prevent any sogginess!

Freezing

Korean Cheese Pancake freezes remarkably well. Lay cooled pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to one month. This is a great make-ahead option for snack cravings or unexpected guests.

Reheating

For best results, reheat your pancakes in a skillet with a tiny bit of oil, flipping until hot and re-crisped. You can also use an oven or air fryer—just pop them in at 180°C (350°F) for 8–10 minutes. The microwave will do in a rush, but you’ll miss out on some of that signature crunch.

FAQs

What kind of cheese works best for Korean Cheese Pancake?

Mozzarella is the classic choice for Korean Cheese Pancake thanks to its ultra-melty, stretchy quality. If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing in a bit of cheddar for tang or even a little cream cheese for richness.

Can I make Korean Cheese Pancake gluten free?

Absolutely! Cornstarch or cornflour is already gluten free, so as long as your other ingredients are certified gluten free, you’re all set to enjoy this snack without worry.

How do I keep the pancakes from falling apart?

Make sure to squeeze out as much water as possible from the grated potatoes—excess moisture can make the mixture too loose. A little extra cornstarch can help bind if needed. Also, form the pancakes firmly around the cheese to ensure they hold together while frying.

Can I try other fillings or flavors?

Definitely! Feel free to tuck in other cheeses, cooked bacon bits, sautéed mushrooms, or even a spicy kick with chopped jalapeños. The base is flexible, so make Korean Cheese Pancake your own.

Are these pancakes kid-friendly?

Kids usually adore the gooey cheese and mild sweetness in Korean Cheese Pancake. If you want to get little ones involved, let them help shape the pancakes—they’ll love seeing the cheesy surprise inside!

Final Thoughts

This Korean Cheese Pancake is comfort food at its most fun, friendly, and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a new snack to make at home or simply want to wow your friends with something irresistibly snackable, this cheesy, crispy treat truly delivers. Go ahead—give Korean Cheese Pancake a try, and watch it become a new favorite in your kitchen!

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