How to Make the Best Korean Baked Goods at Home

Korean baked goods have gained immense popularity worldwide due to their unique flavors and textures. From fluffy breads to delightful pastries, making these treats at home can be a rewarding experience. Here’s a guide on how to create the best Korean baked goods right in your kitchen.

1. Gather the Essential Ingredients

Before diving into baking, ensure you have the right ingredients. Commonly used components in Korean baking include:

  • Korean rice flour
  • All-purpose flour
  • Red bean paste
  • Soy milk or regular milk
  • Yeast
  • Sweeteners like sugar and honey
  • Butter or margarine
  • Eggs
  • Various fillings like nuts, fruits, and cream

2. Master the Basics of Korean Bread

Korean bread often features a soft and chewy texture. A classic example is the milk bread.

Milk Bread Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
  • ½ cup milk, warmed
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 egg
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to bloom for about 10 minutes.
  2. Add flour, egg, and salt to the mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
  3. Incorporate the softened butter and knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it doubles in size.
  5. Shape the dough into a loaf and let it rise again for 30 minutes.
  6. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.

3. Explore Traditional Korean Snacks

Korean snacks are a must-try and can be made at home with ease. One of the favorites is Hotteok, a sweet Korean pancake.

Hotteok Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 1 cup brown sugar (for filling)
  • 1 tsp cinnamon (for filling)
  • Chopped nuts (for filling)

Instructions:

  1. Combine yeast, sugar, and warm water in a bowl. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
  2. Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough lightly, then let it rise for about an hour.
  4. For the filling, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts in a bowl.
  5. Divide the dough into small balls, flatten each, and place a spoonful of filling inside, sealing the dough tightly.
  6. Fry the filled dough in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and crispy on both sides.

4. Perfect Your Pastry Skills

Pâte à choux is versatile and can be used for various Korean pastries, like choux cream buns. The fluffy cream buns are light and delicious.

Choux Cream Bun Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup water
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, bring