Korean Cheese Hotteok

Name: Korean Cheese Hotteok
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1 medium-sized potato (300g); 2-3 tbsp rice flour; 1 tbsp sugar; ¼ tsp salt; Shredded mozzarella cheese; 1-2 tbsp oil (for cooking)

Published: February 6, 2026

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks at any level.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of crispy potato and gooey cheese provides a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.
Versatile Snack: Enjoy them as a quick snack, party appetizer, or even a fun meal option for family dinners.
Quick Cooking Time: You can whip up these tasty hotteoks in under an hour, making them great for last-minute cravings.
Perfect for Sharing: Serve them at gatherings or parties; they are sure to impress and satisfy guests of all ages.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Korean cheese hotteok, you’ll need some essential tools that will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Steamer
Fork
Skillet or frying pan
Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for mashing potatoes and mixing ingredients evenly.
Steamer: Steaming the potatoes ensures they become soft and easy to mash, leading to a better texture in your hotteok.
Skillet or frying pan: A good-quality skillet allows for even cooking and browning of the hotteok, giving you that delicious crispiness.

Ingredients

For the Hotteok Dough

1 medium-sized potato (300g)
2-3 tbsp rice flour
1 tbsp sugar
¼ tsp salt

For the Filling

Shredded mozzarella cheese

For Cooking

1-2 tbsp oil (for cooking)

How to Make Korean Cheese Hotteok

Step 1: Prepare the Potato

Peel off the potato skin then chop into big chunks.
Steam for 10-15 minutes until soft.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

Transfer the steamed potatoes to a bowl.
Add rice flour, sugar, and salt.
Use a fork to mash the potatoes and mix until well combined.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

Use a spoon to scoop out some dough into your palm.
Roll it into a ball, then use your thumb to gently push out and flatten it.

Step 4: Add Cheese Filling

Place shredded mozzarella cheese in the center of the flattened dough.
Wrap the dough around the cheese filling and pinch to seal the seams.

Step 5: Cook the Hotteok

Roll the cheese-filled dough into a ball again and flatten it slightly.
Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
Transfer the potato cheese pancakes to the pan and lower heat.
Pan-fry both sides until golden brown (about 10-12 minutes).

How to Serve Korean Cheese Hotteok

Korean cheese hotteok makes for a delightful snack that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or add some flair, there are plenty of serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Pair with Sweet Dipping Sauce

Honey: Drizzle honey over your hotteok for a natural sweetness that complements the cheesy filling.
Chocolate Sauce: For a decadent treat, serve with warm chocolate sauce for dipping.

Add Fresh Fruits

Sliced Bananas: Top your hotteok with fresh banana slices for a sweet and creamy addition.
Berries: Strawberries or blueberries add a refreshing burst of flavor and color to your dish.

Serve with Savory Condiments

Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a tangy contrast to the rich cheese.
Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy heat, a drizzle of hot sauce can spice things up.

How to Perfect Korean Cheese Hotteok

Making the perfect Korean cheese hotteok is all about technique and ingredient quality. Here are some tips to achieve that delicious crispy exterior and melty cheese inside.

Use Fresh Potatoes: Fresh potatoes yield a better texture and flavor compared to pre-packaged options.
Adjust Flour Amounts: If your dough feels too sticky, add a bit more rice flour until it reaches the right consistency.
Monitor Heat Levels: Cooking on medium-high heat initially helps achieve a golden crust; lower the heat afterward to avoid burning.
Experiment with Cheeses: While mozzarella is classic, try other cheeses like cheddar or a blend for different flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Cheese Hotteok

To create a complete meal or snack experience, consider pairing your Korean cheese hotteok with these tasty side dishes. Each one brings something unique to the table.

Kimchi: This fermented vegetable dish adds spice and crunch, making it an excellent complement to the hotteok.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad provides balance with its crispness and light dressing.
Pickled Radish: These tangy bites cut through the richness of the cheese-filled pancakes.
Stir-Fried Noodles: Quick stir-fried noodles can turn your snack into a hearty meal.
Vegetable Tempura: Crispy tempura vegetables offer an exciting texture contrast alongside the soft hotteok.
Seaweed Salad: This light salad adds umami flavors that enhance the overall taste experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Korean Cheese Hotteok, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Using unpeeled potatoes: Always peel the potatoes before steaming. Leaving the skin on can affect the texture of your hotteok.
Not mashing well: Ensure the potatoes are fully mashed and mixed with the other ingredients. Lumps can result in uneven cooking.
Overfilling with cheese: Adding too much cheese can make it difficult to seal the dough properly. Stick to a moderate amount for a perfect melt.
Cooking at high heat: Cooking on too high of a heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Use medium heat for even cooking.
Skipping resting time: Letting the dough rest for a few minutes helps improve texture and makes it easier to shape. Don’t rush this step.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Ensure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Korean Cheese Hotteok

Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container for up to 1 month.
Separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Reheating Korean Cheese Hotteok

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Microwave on medium power in short intervals (20-30 seconds) until warm, but this may not retain crispiness.
Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat, adding a little oil if desired, and cook until warmed through and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Korean Cheese Hotteok that might help you in your cooking journey.

What is Korean Cheese Hotteok?

Korean Cheese Hotteok is a delicious potato pancake filled with melted cheese, giving it a unique twist on traditional hotteok.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While mozzarella is popular, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or gouda for varied flavors.

How do I know when my hotteok is done?

They should be golden brown on both sides and feel firm when touched. The cheese should also be melted inside.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! You can substitute dairy cheese with plant-based alternatives and ensure all other ingredients are vegan-friendly.

Final Thoughts

Korean Cheese Hotteok is not only delightful but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with different fillings or toppings. This snack is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying it alone or sharing it with friends. Don’t hesitate to try your own variations!

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