Korean Baked Goods That Are Both Simple and Delicious

Korean baked goods are gaining popularity around the world, thanks to their unique flavors and textures. Traditional recipes have been adapted to suit modern tastes, making them both simple to prepare and delicious to eat. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular Korean baked goods that you can easily try at home.

1. Bungeoppang (Fish-Shaped Pastry)
Bungeoppang is a delightful fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet red bean paste. Its crispy exterior and warm filling make it a favorite during the colder months. The batter is made from flour, sugar, baking powder, and water, making it easy to whip up. Simply pour the batter into a fish-shaped mold, add the filling, and cook until golden brown.

2. Hotteok (Sweet Pancakes)
Hotteok are sweet syrupy pancakes, perfect for a quick snack. The dough is made from flour, sugar, yeast, milk, and water. After letting it rise, fill each pancake with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and crushed peanuts before frying them on a skillet. The gooey filling makes Hotteok a delightful treat that satisfies any sweet tooth.

3. Choco Pie (Chocolate-Coated Snack)
Choco Pie is an iconic Korean snack that consists of two soft cake layers sandwiched with marshmallow filling, all coated in chocolate. This simple recipe requires just a few ingredients – flour, sugar, baking powder, cocoa powder, and marshmallow fluff. Bake the cakes, let them cool, fill, and coat them in melted chocolate for an indulgent treat.

4. Gyeran-ppang (Egg Bread)
Gyeran-ppang, or egg bread, is a popular street food in Korea. It’s a soft, fluffy bread with a whole egg baked right into it. The ingredients include flour, sugar, salt, yeast, milk, and of course, eggs. This unique combination not only looks appealing but also offers a savory flavor that is truly satisfying.

5. Kkaennip Jeon (Perilla Leaf Pancakes)
Kkaennip jeon takes a savory spin on traditional pancakes. These pancakes are made with perilla leaves, a herb commonly used in Korean cuisine. The batter can consist of flour, water, and seasoning, which is then dipped around the leaves before frying. They make a fantastic appetizer or side dish and are quite simple to prepare.

6. Songpyeon (Rice Cake)
Songpyeon is a traditional Korean rice cake shaped into a crescent. They are made using glutinous rice flour and can be filled with various ingredients like sweetened sesame seeds, chestnuts, or red bean paste. These colorful treats are typically shaped during the Chuseok festival but can be enjoyed any time of year for a light dessert.

7. Danpatbbang (Red Bean Bread)
Danpatbbang is a slightly sweet bread often filled with red bean paste. The dough is similar to that of regular bread, using flour, sugar, yeast, and milk. After the dough rises, fill it with red bean paste, shape it, and let it bake until it's golden brown. It’s an excellent complement to a cup of tea or coffee.

Exploring Korean baked goods is a joyful culinary experience. Their unique flavors and simplicity in preparation allow anyone to enjoy these treats at home. Try your hand at making these delectable pastries and discover the delightful world of Korean baking!