Easy-to-Make Korean Baked Goods for Beginners

If you’re a fan of Korean cuisine and have a sweet tooth, you’ll love exploring the world of Korean baked goods. This guide focuses on easy-to-make Korean desserts that are perfect for beginners. From classic treats to modern twists, these recipes will impress your friends and family without overwhelming you in the kitchen.

Korean Rice Cake (Songpyeon)

Songpyeon is a traditional Korean rice cake that is often filled with sweetened sesame or red bean paste. Making Songpyeon can be a fun and rewarding experience.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups sweet rice flour (also called glutinous rice flour)
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (toasting optional)
  • Red bean paste or sweetened sesame paste for filling

Instructions:

  1. Mix the sweet rice flour, water, and sugar in a bowl until smooth.
  2. Steam the mixture for about 20 minutes or until it becomes dough-like.
  3. Once cooled, knead the dough and divide it into small pieces.
  4. Flatten each piece and place a small amount of the filling in the center. Pinch the dough to seal.
  5. Shape into a half-moon and steam for another 10 minutes. Enjoy your homemade Songpyeon!

Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread

This delicious bread combines the flavor of garlic with the creaminess of cheese, creating an irresistible snack perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

  • 1 loaf of French bread
  • 4 tablespoons cream cheese (softened)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tablespoons parsley (chopped)
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mix the cream cheese, melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, and a pinch of salt in a bowl.
  3. Slice the French bread lengthwise and spread the cream cheese mixture generously on each half.
  4. Wrap the bread in aluminum foil and bake for about 15 minutes.
  5. Unwrap and bake for another 5 minutes to get a crispy topping. Serve warm!

Korean Sweet Potato Cake (Goguma Cake)

This moist and flavorful cake is made with sweet potatoes, making it a nutritious treat that delights the palate.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract.
  3. Mix well and gradually add the flour and baking powder until just combined.
  4. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  5. Let it cool before serving. This is delicious on its own or with whipped cream!

Easy Cinnamon Sugar Korean Donuts (Churros)

These cozy donuts offer a delightful cinnamon sugar coating and are a perfect treat to share.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon