The magic of Korean street food comes alive with these golden, pan-fried Cheese Hotteok. A crispy, lightly sweetened dough wraps around gooey mozzarella cheese, creating a satisfying bite that melts in your mouth. The hint of brown sugar adds just the right touch of sweetness to balance the creamy, salty cheese—making this a fusion of dessert and snack in one. Perfect for weekend brunches, after-school treats, or late-night cravings, this easy-to-follow recipe brings one of Korea’s most iconic street eats right into your kitchen. Whether you’re new to Korean cooking or a seasoned home chef, these cheesy pancakes are sure to be a repeat favorite.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
Dough:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tbsp sugar
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2 tsp instant yeast
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1/2 tsp salt
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3/4 cup warm milk
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2 tbsp vegetable oil
Filling:
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1 tbsp brown sugar
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1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional)
For cooking:
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2 tbsp vegetable oil for frying
Directions:
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add warm milk and oil, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
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Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a towel, and let the dough rise in a warm area for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
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Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 6 equal pieces.
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Flatten each piece into a small disk. Place about 2 tbsp of mozzarella cheese, a sprinkle of brown sugar, and a pinch of cinnamon (if using) into the center.
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Carefully pinch the edges to seal the filling and form a ball.
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Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the filled dough ball seam-side down, flatten slightly with a spatula, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden and crispy, and cheese is melted.
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Remove and drain on paper towels. Serve hot while the cheese is still gooey.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 6 pancakes
Introduction to Korean Cheese Hotteok
Korean Cheese Hotteok is a delightful twist on the traditional Korean street food, Hotteok. Typically filled with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and crushed nuts, the addition of mozzarella cheese brings a savory, gooey surprise to this beloved snack. Originating from the streets of Korea, Hotteok has become a comforting treat enjoyed during colder months or as a quick indulgence. Its crispy, golden-brown exterior and soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior make it irresistible to anyone who takes a bite.
Whether you’re looking for a delicious breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a sweet dessert, Korean Cheese Hotteok satisfies every craving. This recipe captures the essence of Korean street food with its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, bringing a comforting and indulgent experience right to your kitchen.
Why Korean Cheese Hotteok Is the Perfect Comfort Food
Korean Cheese Hotteok offers the best of both worlds — the comforting sweetness of traditional Hotteok, enhanced with the richness of melted mozzarella cheese. The crispy outer layer contrasts beautifully with the gooey, cheesy filling, creating a satisfying texture that’s hard to beat. The cinnamon-sugar filling adds a warm sweetness that complements the cheese’s richness, making every bite a harmonious experience.
The recipe is easy to follow and requires basic ingredients, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced bakers alike. The result? A snack that’s perfect for any time of day, from breakfast to dessert. Plus, it’s a fun treat to make with family or friends, especially when served fresh and hot right out of the pan.
Health Benefits of Korean Cheese Hotteok
While this recipe is undoubtedly indulgent, it also offers some health benefits, especially when made with high-quality ingredients. For instance, the use of mozzarella cheese provides a good source of calcium and protein, which supports bone health and muscle repair. Additionally, Hotteok is made with yeast, which promotes digestive health and can aid in gut function.
Although it’s a treat, it’s still a better option compared to many other fried pastries and street foods, especially when made with less sugar or with healthier oil alternatives. You can also make modifications to make this recipe more nutritious, such as using whole wheat flour or adding fruit or nuts to the filling for added fiber and healthy fats.
How to Customize Your Korean Cheese Hotteok
One of the best things about Korean Cheese Hotteok is how versatile it is. While the traditional recipe calls for a simple filling of cinnamon, brown sugar, and mozzarella cheese, you can easily modify it to suit your preferences. For instance, you can:
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Swap mozzarella for a different melting cheese, like cheddar or gouda, for a more intense cheese flavor.
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Add chocolate chips, peanut butter, or Nutella to the filling for a richer, dessert-like experience.
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Include chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds for an added crunch and extra nutrients.
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For a healthier version, try using whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend, making this a snack for everyone, including those with dietary restrictions.
Why You Should Try Making Korean Cheese Hotteok at Home
Making Korean Cheese Hotteok at home offers an authentic, homemade experience that you won’t get from store-bought versions. When you make this recipe yourself, you control the quality of the ingredients, the sweetness, and the texture. You also have the option to adjust the recipe to your tastes, making it the perfect treat for yourself, your family, or your guests.
Moreover, it’s a fun and interactive recipe that allows you to experiment with different fillings and flavors. The simple technique of sealing the dough around the filling and frying it to a crispy golden-brown perfection is enjoyable to do, making it an engaging experience for anyone in the kitchen.
Conclusion
Korean Cheese Hotteok is a wonderful way to explore Korean cuisine and indulge in a sweet and savory treat that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or as a dessert, the crispy exterior and gooey, cheesy filling are what make this snack so special. This recipe is incredibly versatile, easy to make, and a true crowd-pleaser. The delightful fusion of cheese, cinnamon, and brown sugar makes Korean Cheese Hotteok the ultimate comfort food that’s just waiting to be shared. The combination of cheese and cinnamon creates a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting, making it the perfect introduction to Korean street food. Don’t hesitate to try making it at home and enjoy the sweet, cheesy goodness straight from your own kitchen!