Quick Korean Baked Goods for Busy Weeknights

When life gets hectic, but you still crave homemade treats, Korean baked goods are an excellent solution. Here’s a roundup of quick Korean baked goods that you can whip up on busy weeknights, satisfying both your sweet tooth and your desire for something comforting.

1. Bungeoppang (Fish-Shaped Pastry)
Bungeoppang is a delightful fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet red bean paste. To make this treat quickly, you can use a bungeoppang mold, which allows you to whip up multiple pastries in no time. Simply prepare your batter, fill the mold with it, add a spoonful of red bean paste, and cook until golden brown. This easy recipe yields a crispy exterior with a warm, sweet filling, perfect for any weeknight snack.

2. Hotteok (Sweet Syrup-Filled Pancakes)
Hotteok is a beloved Korean street food made from a yeasted dough filled with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts. For a quick version, mix instant yeast into your pancake batter, allow it to rise for about 30 minutes, and then form round discs filled with the syrup mixture. Cook them on a skillet until golden brown. These sweet pancakes are perfect for dessert or breakfast!

3. Kimbap (Korean Sushi Rolls)
Though kimbap isn’t baked, it’s a quick and satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknights. Fill short sheets of seaweed with seasoned rice, assorted vegetables, and proteins like tuna or bulgogi. Roll tightly and slice into bite-sized pieces. Kimbap is a nutritious option that provides a delicious balance of flavors and textures, and can be made in under 30 minutes.

4. Goguma Mattang (Candied Sweet Potatoes)
Goguma mattang is a quick yet indulgent treat made from sweet potatoes. Simply slice sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces, fry them until crispy, and then coat them with a caramelized sugar syrup. This snack is not only easy to make but also offers a satisfying crunch with a sweet finish, making it an ideal quick fix for a busy night.

5. Danpatbbang (Red Bean Bread)
Danpatbbang is a soft bread filled with sweet red bean paste. To make it accessible for busy nights, opt for pre-made dough and simply fill it with store-bought or homemade red bean paste. Shape the dough into rolls, allow them to rise slightly, and bake until golden. Enjoy warm with a cup of tea for the perfect evening treat.

6. Jeolpa-bbang (Puffy Korean Pancakes)
These light and fluffy pancakes are incredibly easy to prepare. Combine flour, milk, and a bit of sugar, and whip the batter to a pancake-like consistency. Cook them in a nonstick pan until they puff up. You can also add chocolate chips or fruit to the batter for an extra twist. Serve with maple syrup for a delightful finish.

These quick Korean baked goods and snacks are perfect for busy weeknights, bringing a taste of Korea to your kitchen without the fuss. With minimal ingredients and preparation time, you can indulge in delicious flavors and textures any day of the week!