Name: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Korean Cheese Hotteok for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 300 g medium-sized potato (Adds moisture and structure; ensure to steam until soft.); 2-3 tbsp rice flour (Gluten-free base for dough; can be substituted with cornstarch.); 1 tbsp sugar (Enhances natural sweetness.); ¼ tsp salt (Balances flavor.); shredded mozzarella cheese (Creates that irresistibly gooey center.); 1-2 tbsp oil (Essential for frying.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Walking through the bustling streets of Seoul, the aroma of sizzling hotteok filled the air, weaving its way into my heart. These crispy, chewy Korean cheese hotteoks have become a comfort food favorite in my kitchen, especially when I crave a satisfying and hearty snack. The highlight? A melty mozzarella center that offers an irresistible cheese pull, making each bite a delightful experience. With just five simple ingredients, this recipe is not only quick to whip up but also gluten-free with easy substitutions for those looking to accommodate various diets. Perfect for chilly days, these cheesy delights will not only warm your soul but also impress anyone fortunate enough to share them with you. Curious about how to bring this little slice of Korean street food magic to your home? Let’s dive in!

70c4e8bd 561a 4c56 8b1c bbb5d738eeaetr wu0y60

Why Will You Love Korean Cheese Hotteok?

Irresistible Cheese Pull: The secret is the melty mozzarella center, creating an awe-inspiring cheese stretch in every bite.

Comfort in Simplicity: With just five ingredients, these hotteoks are quick to prepare, making them a perfect weeknight treat.

Gluten-Free Option: You can enjoy these delicious pancakes by substituting rice flour, allowing more people to savor this dish.

Crispy and Chewy Texture: The golden-brown exterior contrasts beautifully with the soft, chewy inside, making each bite satisfying.

Versatile Fillings: Feel free to experiment; try fillings like savory kimchi or sweet red bean paste for an extra twist, just like what you’d find in traditional recipes.

Serve these hotteoks with a side of yogurt for dipping, and you won’t be disappointed! If you’re looking for even more comforting recipes, check out Sausage Egg Cheese or Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese for a home-cooked feast.

Korean Cheese Hotteok Ingredients

• Deliciously simple base for comfort food.

For the Dough

Medium-sized potato (300g) – Adds moisture and structure; ensure to steam until soft for the perfect texture.
Rice flour (2-3 tbsp) – Provides a gluten-free base for the dough; can be substituted with cornstarch for alternative options.
Sugar (1 tbsp) – Enhances the natural sweetness in the dough.
Salt (¼ tsp) – Balances flavor, ensuring each bite is savory yet satisfying.

For the Filling

Shredded mozzarella cheese – The star ingredient; creates that irresistibly gooey center with a delightful cheese pull.

For Cooking

Oil (1-2 tbsp) – Essential for frying, giving the hotteoks their golden, crispy exterior.

Get ready to enjoy mouthwatering Korean cheese hotteok, perfect for cozy nights or gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Korean Cheese Hotteok

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Begin by peeling and chopping the medium-sized potato into small chunks. Place the potato in a steamer basket and steam for about 10–15 minutes, or until it is tender and easily pierced with a fork. This soft texture is crucial for making the perfect dough for your Korean cheese hotteok.

Step 2: Make the Dough
Once the potato is steamed, transfer it to a large mixing bowl and mash it until smooth. Next, add 2-3 tablespoons of rice flour, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and ¼ teaspoon of salt to the potato. Mix everything together until it forms a cohesive dough. You want a slightly sticky consistency that holds together well.

Step 3: Shape the Pancakes
Take a generous scoop of the dough and place it in your palm, shaping it into a flat disc. Create a small indentation in the center, and add a handful of shredded mozzarella cheese. Carefully wrap the dough around the cheese, pinching the seams tightly to seal it securely. This step is essential to prevent any cheese from leaking out during frying.

Step 4: Fry the Hotteok
In a non-stick pan, heat 1–2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, reduce the heat to medium-low and place the shaped hotteoks in the pan. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to ensure they cook evenly without burning.

Step 5: Serve Warm
Once fried, remove the Korean cheese hotteok from the pan and let them cool for just a moment. Serve them warm, with the gooey cheese filling still melty inside. These delightful hotteoks are best enjoyed fresh and can be paired with a side of yogurt for an extra touch. Dive into the comforting flavors of this delicious snack!

70c4e8bd 561a 4c56 8b1c bbb5d738eeaebl h0oe3b

Expert Tips for Korean Cheese Hotteok

Seal Tightly: Pinch the seams tightly around the filling to avoid any oozy cheese leaks while frying, ensuring that lovely mozzarella stays inside.
Preheat Properly: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the hotteoks; if it’s not, the dough will stick to the pan and not crisp up nicely.
Check Dough Texture: Aim for a slightly sticky dough consistency; fussing with too much flour can lead to dense hotteoks rather than the desired chewy texture.
Mind Your Heat: After achieving a golden-brown crust, lower the heat to medium-low to cook the inside thoroughly without burning the exterior.
Fry in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan—fry a few hotteoks at a time so they have space to bubble and cook evenly, enhancing that perfect crispy experience.

Korean Cheese Hotteok Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to customize your Korean cheese hotteok to suit your tastes and dietary needs—there’s so much deliciousness to explore!

Dairy-Free: Use vegan cheese alternatives instead of mozzarella for a lactose-free option. It still provides that satisfying melted texture.
Extra Crunch: Add some finely chopped onions to the dough mixture for a delightful crunch and added flavor. The sweetness of the onions pairs wonderfully with the cheesy filling.
Spicy Twist: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the dough or opt for spicy cheese for a warm kick. This little kick can take your hotteok to the next level!
Sweet Filling: For a dessert option, swap mozzarella for sweet red bean paste or Nutella. It’s a delightful twist that transforms the savory snack into a treat.
Vegetable Medley: Experiment with finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or green onions as a filling for a healthier, veggie-packed option. The added freshness complements the cheese beautifully.
Gluten-Free Alternative: If you don’t have rice flour, gluten-free all-purpose flour works well too—just adjust the moisture as needed.
Savory Kimchi: Instead of cheese, fill the hotteok with kimchi for a tasty, fermented flavor that embodies Korean cuisine. The spicy, tangy bite of kimchi truly brightens each mouthful.
Herbed Dough: Mix in dried herbs like thyme or oregano into your dough for an aromatic touch. These subtle flavors can make your hotteok stand out on any dinner table.

For more comforting recipes, don’t forget to check out Honey Pepper Cheese or how to whip up delicious Cottage Cheese Chips to enjoy alongside your Korean cheese hotteok. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead Options

These Korean Cheese Hotteok are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by steaming the potato, mashing it, and mixing in the rice flour, sugar, and salt. Store the prepared dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply shape the pancakes with mozzarella cheese and fry them right before serving for that delightful cheese pull. This way, you’ll have warm, crispy hotteoks on your table with minimal effort, just as delicious as if made fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Korean Cheese Hotteok

Room Temperature: Allow cooked hotteok to cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Enjoy warm for the best taste!
Fridge: Keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to a week. Use an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the hotteoks in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat frozen hotteok in a pan over medium heat for about 5–6 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes until warm. Enjoy that gooey cheese pull again!

What to Serve with Cheesy Korean Potato Hotteok

Elevate your culinary experience with delicious pairings that will complement these delightful cheese-filled pancakes perfectly.

Creamy Yogurt: A dollop alongside your hotteoks balances their richness with a refreshing tang, enhancing every bite.
Spicy Kimchi: This fermented staple adds a zingy kick, creating a wonderful contrast to the cheesy warmth of hotteok.
Savory Tofu Stir-Fry: The texture and flavors of stir-fried tofu with vegetables provide satisfying heartiness, rounding out your meal beautifully.
Crispy Salad: A fresh, crunchy salad tossed with sesame dressing adds vibrant color and a satisfying crunch to contrast with the soft hotteok.
Sweet Red Bean Paste: For a twist, serve with a side of sweet red bean paste, echoing traditional flavors that enhance the dish’s sweet and savory balance.
Glass Noodles: Light and chewy, a side of stir-fried glass noodles with garlic and veggies pairs wonderfully for a delightful bite.
Chilled Fruit Tea: Refreshing and subtly sweet, a chilled fruit tea adds a fragrant note to your meal, making it an extra comforting experience.
Matcha Ice Cream: For dessert, this smooth, slightly bitter ice cream offers a beautiful contrast to the hotteok’s warmth.
Soft Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy, light scrambled eggs bring an elevated protein element that harmonizes beautifully with the other ingredients, transforming breakfast into a feast.

70c4e8bd 561a 4c56 8b1c bbb5d738eeaebr o34ooh

Korean Cheese Hotteok Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes should I use for Korean cheese hotteok?
Choose medium-sized, starchy potatoes like Russets. Starchy potatoes provide the right moisture and texture, ensuring your hotteoks have that delightful chewiness. You want them soft enough to mash easily after steaming, so make sure they’re cooked through!

How do I store leftover Korean cheese hotteok?
Once cooled, store hotteoks in an airtight container. At room temperature, they can last for up to 4 days. For longer shelf life, refrigerate them, and they should stay fresh for about a week. Always ensure they are sealed well to maintain their delicious taste!

Can I freeze Korean cheese hotteok?
Absolutely! After cooking and letting them cool completely, place the hotteoks in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months! Just remember to reheat in a pan or microwave before enjoying.

What if my hotteok dough is too sticky?
If your dough is on the stickier side, don’t panic! To adjust, simply sprinkle a small amount of rice flour into the bowl while mixing. Gradually fold it in until you achieve a slightly tacky but manageable consistency. It’s essential for the dough to hold together well for that perfect cheese pull!

Are there any dietary considerations for Korean cheese hotteok?
Yes! This recipe can easily accommodate a gluten-free diet by using rice flour. If you’re making these for others, it’s important to let them know about the cheese, especially if they have lactose intolerances. For an alternative filling, consider using savory options like kimchi or sweet red beans for those with dairy allergies.

How can I achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside chewy?
To get that perfect texture, start with hot oil to sear the outside quickly, then reduce the heat to medium-low to ensure the inside cooks through without burning the outside. Fry each hotteok for about 5-6 minutes on each side, ensuring they’re golden brown and crispy!