If you’re craving something delightfully crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this Korean Cheese Pancake Recipe is about to become your new kitchen obsession. Picture golden, savory pancakes loaded with melty mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, fragrant scallions, and a perfectly seasoned batter that comes together in just 30 minutes. Whether you want a quick snack, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a fun weekend cooking project, this recipe is irresistibly simple and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Korean Cheese Pancake Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that each play a vital role in creating the perfect bite. From the tender, fluffy texture of the all-purpose flour base to the sharp kick of paprika, every addition enhances the final dish’s flavor and character.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure and a tender bite to the pancake.
- 1 cup cold water: Helps achieve a smooth, light batter for crispiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and elevates the overall flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar: Adds a subtle hint of sweetness to contrast the savory notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the pancake a gentle lift and light texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Brings a mild heat that complements the cheese beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a warm, aromatic undertone.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Deepens the savory complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika: Offers a smoky edge and lovely color.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, stretchy pockets of goodness.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharp, rich flavor and vibrant color.
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions: Brings freshness and a gentle bite.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Ensures a golden, crispy crust every time.
How to Make Korean Cheese Pancake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Combine all-purpose flour, cold water, salt, sugar, baking powder, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika in a large mixing bowl. Whisk everything together until you get a smooth, cohesive batter without any lumps. This step is crucial because it sets the foundation for a light, crispy pancake.
Step 2: Add Cheese and Scallions
Gently fold in the shredded mozzarella, cheddar cheese, and chopped scallions. Distribute these ingredients evenly throughout the batter to ensure each pancake bursts with cheesy flavor and fresh scallion bites. The combination of cheeses provides both creaminess and a sharp tang.
Step 3: Heat the Pan
Pour vegetable oil into a non-stick skillet and heat it over medium heat. The oil needs to be hot enough to sizzle when the batter hits the pan but not so hot that it burns the pancake edges before cooking through inside. This gives you that coveted crisp crust with a soft interior.
Step 4: Cook the Pancakes
Using a ladle, pour a scoop of the batter into the hot pan, spreading it gently into a round pancake shape. Let it cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on the first side until golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip the pancake and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes on the other side. Repeat this with the remaining batter, adding more oil as needed to maintain that crisp texture.
Step 5: Drain and Serve
Once cooked, transfer the pancakes onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. This quick step keeps them from becoming greasy and preserves their delightful crunch. Serve your Korean Cheese Pancakes hot for the best experience.
How to Serve Korean Cheese Pancake Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped scallions or a light dusting of toasted sesame seeds on top to add a pop of color and a subtle crunch. A drizzle of soy sauce or a sprinkle of sea salt can enhance the flavor even more. These little touches turn the pancakes into a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Side Dishes
Pair your Korean Cheese Pancake with a simple dipping sauce such as a soy-based blend mixed with vinegar, a bit of chili, and minced garlic to complement the richness of the cheese. For a complete meal, serve alongside a fresh cucumber salad or kimchi to add a refreshing contrast and a tangy kick.
Creative Ways to Present
Make mini versions of these pancakes for a fun party appetizer, stacked with layers of cheese in between for a gooey multi-layer treat, or top them with a fried egg and a sprinkle of chili flakes for a savory brunch twist. The possibilities to personalize the Korean Cheese Pancake Recipe are endless and exciting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, let the pancakes cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and tasty for up to 2 days, making them a convenient snack or quick meal later on.
Freezing
You can freeze the pancakes by layering them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. This allows you to enjoy your favorite Korean Cheese Pancake Recipe anytime without starting from scratch.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low to medium heat to revive that crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as that can make them soggy. A few minutes per side on the stove will bring back their golden, melty glory.
FAQs
Can I use other cheeses besides mozzarella and cheddar?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and cheddar are traditional for their meltability and flavor, you can experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for a different twist.
Is it necessary to use cold water for the batter?
Using cold water helps keep the batter light and prevents the starch in the flour from activating too early, which can lead to a tougher texture. It’s a small step that makes a noticeable difference.
Can I add vegetables to this pancake?
Yes, additional finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or kimchi can be folded into the batter for extra flavor and nutrition, making the pancakes even more exciting.
What dipping sauces go well with Korean Cheese Pancake Recipe?
Simple soy sauce mixes with vinegar and chili flakes work great, but you can also try sweet chili sauce, gochujang-based dips, or even a creamy garlic mayo for interesting flavor combos.
Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for pancakes. You might need to adjust the water quantity slightly to achieve the right batter consistency.
Final Thoughts
Trying out this Korean Cheese Pancake Recipe is like inviting a crispy, cheesy party right onto your plate. It’s quick, easy, and endlessly delicious — perfect for sharing with friends or savoring on your own. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and prepare to be amazed by just how tasty and fun homemade Korean cheese pancakes can be!
Print
Korean Cheese Pancake Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 15m
- Total Time: 0h 30m
- Yield: 4-6 pancakes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Korean
Description
This Korean Cheese Pancake recipe features a crispy, golden exterior with a cheesy, savory interior, combining mozzarella and cheddar cheeses with a flavorful batter infused with spices and scallions. Perfect for a delicious snack or appetizer, these pancakes are pan-fried to achieve the ideal texture and served hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients
Batter Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cold water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Cheese and Vegetables
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions
Cooking
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the batter: Whisk together the all-purpose flour, cold water, salt, sugar, baking powder, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika in a mixing bowl until a smooth batter forms.
- Add cheese and scallions: Fold in the shredded mozzarella cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped scallions until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Heat the skillet: Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat to prepare for frying the pancakes.
- Cook pancakes: Pour a ladleful of the batter into the skillet, spreading it out into a round shape to form the pancake.
- Fry pancakes: Cook the pancake for 3-4 minutes on each side until it becomes golden brown and crispy.
- Repeat cooking: Continue cooking the remaining batter in the same manner, adding more oil to the skillet as needed to prevent sticking and ensure even frying.
- Drain excess oil: Remove the cooked pancakes from the skillet and place them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the Korean cheese pancakes hot, accompanied by a dipping sauce of your choice for added flavor.
- Enjoy: Savor your delicious homemade Korean cheese pancakes fresh and warm.
Notes
- Use cold water to ensure the batter mixes smoothly and provides a light texture.
- Feel free to substitute cheeses; a mix of mozzarella and cheddar gives the best melt and flavor balance.
- Adjust frying oil amount as needed to avoid greasy pancakes while ensuring crispiness.
- These pancakes are best eaten fresh but can be reheated in a skillet to regain crispiness.
- Serve with soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or a spicy dipping sauce for authentic taste.
