Easy Korean Baked Goods You’ll Want to Make Over and Over

Korean cuisine offers a delightful variety of flavors, especially when it comes to baked goods. Many of these treats are simple to make and will satisfy your cravings time and again. Here are some easy Korean baked goods you’ll want to make over and over.

1. Korean Sweet Potato Bread (Goguma Bread)
Goguma bread is a delicious treat that combines the natural sweetness of Korean sweet potatoes with soft, fluffy bread. To make it, mash steamed or roasted sweet potatoes and mix them with flour, yeast, and a touch of sugar. Roll the dough into small balls, stuff them with sweet potato filling, and let them rise. Bake until golden brown and enjoy the fluffy, naturally sweet bread that’s perfect for any time of day.

2. Rice Cake (Songpyeon)
Songpyeon is a traditional Korean rice cake that is easy to prepare, especially during the harvest festival. Simply mix glutinous rice flour with water and a bit of salt to form a dough. Shape the dough into small half-moons and fill them with sweet fillings like sesame seeds and sugar or red bean paste. Steam the cakes until cooked through. Enjoy them warm or chilled as a delightful dessert.

3. Korean Chocolate Pie (Choco Pie)
Korean chocolate pies are a beloved snack, known for their soft cake layers and creamy filling. To make your own, prepare a simple chocolate cake batter and bake it into two thin layers. Once cooled, spread a layer of marshmallow or cream filling between the two cakes, and dip the whole thing in melted chocolate. Allow it to set before slicing them into perfect squares for a tasty treat.

4. Honey Butter Bread
This sweet treat has taken the Korean dessert scene by storm. To create honey butter bread, slice a loaf of bread into diamond shapes but don’t cut all the way through. Mix melted butter with honey and pour it over the top of the bread, allowing it to seep into the slices. Bake the bread until crispy and golden, then serve it with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a perfect combination of flavors.

5. Korean Pancakes (Hotteok)
Hotteok is a popular street food that’s easy to make at home. The dough consists of flour, sugar, yeast, and a bit of salt. After letting it rise, shape the dough into small discs and fill them with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and finely chopped nuts. Fry the pancakes in oil until golden brown and watch as the sweet filling melts inside. These warm, gooey treats are perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.

6. Indulgent Custard Cream Bread
Custard cream bread, or "Yukjeon," is an indulgent treat that combines soft bread with creamy custard. Start by preparing a fluffy brioche-like dough. After the first rise, fill the dough with homemade or store-bought custard and shape it into rolls. Bake until golden and enjoy the delicate flavors. Pair this with a cup of tea for a delightful afternoon break.

Each of these easy Korean baked goods brings a unique taste to your kitchen and can be made with simple ingredients. On weekends or during festive occasions, consider trying your hand at one (or all) of these delightful recipes. They are sure to become staples in your baking repertoire!