Easy Homemade Hotteok Recipe (Korean Sweet Pancakes) : 4 Easy Step by Step Recipe

There’s nothing quite like biting into a warm, crispy Hotteok Recipe (호떡)—Korea’s beloved sweet street food pancake. Filled with molten brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts, this chewy, golden-brown treat is a must-try for anyone who loves desserts with a perfect balance of textures.

In this recipe, I’ll guide you through making authentic Hotteok recipe at home, step by step recipe just like the ones sizzling on Seoul’s winter streets. No fancy tools needed—just simple ingredients and a little patience for the dough to rise.

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The Sweet History of Hotteok Recipe: From Survival Food to Beloved Street Snack

Origins (1880s):
Hotteok (호떡) arrived in Korea through Chinese merchants during the late Joseon Dynasty. The name combines Chinese “hú” (barbarian) + Korean “tteok” (rice cake), reflecting its foreign roots. Originally a savory pancake, Korean vendors adapted it into a sweet comfort food during hard times.

Great Depression Era (1930s):

• Became street food gold in Seoul’s markets, using cheap ingredients (wheat flour, brown sugar).
• Vendors stuffed extra filling to attract customers—creating the “molten center” we love today.

Modern Icon (2000s–Present):

• National winter snack: Associated with warmth against Korea’s cold winters.
• Global twist: Now features modern fillings (cheese, matcha, even Nutella).
• Cultural symbol: Featured in K-dramas (Reply 1988) and viral food trends.

Fun Fact:
The sizzle of Hotteok on griddles is called “호떡 소리” (hotteok sound)—a nostalgic street music for Koreans.

Why You’ll Love This Hotteok Recipe

✔ Crispy outside, chewy inside – The perfect contrast in every bite.
✔ Gooey cinnamon-sugar filling – Melts into caramel-like goodness.
✔ Easy to customize – Add nuts, seeds, or even cheese for a twist.
✔ No stand mixer required – Hand-kneaded dough works great.

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Ingredients

For the Dough

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (50g) sugar
• 1 tsp instant yeast
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup (180ml) warm milk (or water)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Filling

• ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 2 tbsp chopped walnuts or peanuts (optional)
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)

For Cooking

• ¼ cup (60ml) vegetable oil (for frying)

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Step by Step Recipe Instructions

1. Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add warm milk (or water) and oil, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth (it’ll be slightly sticky).
4. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise for 1 hour (or until doubled).

📌 Pro Tip: If short on time, use 1 tsp baking powder instead of yeast (no rise needed).

2. Prepare the Filling

While the dough rises, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, nuts, and sesame seeds in a small bowl.

3. Shape the Hotteok

1. Punch down the dough and divide into 6-8 pieces.
2. Flatten each piece into a small disc, then add 1 tbsp filling in the center.
3. Pinch the edges to seal tightly (like a dumpling).

4. Cook to Golden Perfection

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium-low heat.
2. Place a dough ball in the pan and press gently with a spatula to flatten.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until crispy and golden.
4. Drain on paper towels.

🔥 Key Tip: Keep heat medium-low to avoid burning the sugar.

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Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy fresh and hot—the filling stays molten for about 10 minutes!
• Pair with vanilla ice cream for a decadent twist.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in a toaster oven.

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FAQs

1. Can I make Hotteok without yeast?

Yes! Substitute with 1 tsp baking powder + ½ tsp baking soda (no rising needed).

2. Why is my filling leaking?

• Ensure edges are fully sealed.
• Don’t overstuff (1 tbsp max).

3. Can I freeze Hotteok?

Yes! Freeze before frying, then cook from frozen (add 1 extra minute per side).

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Final Thoughts

Hotteok is more than just a snack—it’s a bite of Korean street food magic. With this recipe, you can recreate that crispy, chewy, caramel-filled joy anytime.

Ready to try? Tag me [@FeastSecrets] on Instagram with your Hotteok creations!