Quick Korean Baked Goods Recipes That Are Perfect for Busy Days

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, finding the time to bake can seem impossible. However, quick Korean baked goods can be a delightful solution. They not only offer unique flavors but can also be made in a flash. Here are some simple recipes for Korean baked goods that are perfect for busy days.

1. Korean Sweet Potato Bread (Goguma Bbang)

This soft and fluffy bread is a great way to enjoy the sweetness of sweet potatoes without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups bread flour
  • 1/2 cup mashed sweet potatoes
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 teaspoons yeast
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine bread flour, sugar, and salt. In another bowl, mix the yeast with warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the yeast mixture and mashed sweet potatoes to the flour mixture. Knead until smooth, then incorporate butter.
  3. Let the dough rise for about 30 minutes in a warm place.
  4. Shape the dough into small balls and place them in a baking pan.
  5. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

2. Hotteok (Korean Sweet Pancakes)

Hotteok is a popular street food in Korea, but you can easily whip them up at home with this quick recipe.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup warm water
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon instant yeast
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. Combine flour, sugar, yeast, and warm water. Mix until a dough forms and let it rise for about 20 minutes.
  2. In a bowl, mix brown sugar, nuts, and cinnamon to create the filling.
  3. Divide the dough into small portions and flatten each slightly. Spoon in the filling and seal the dough, shaping it into a ball.
  4. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook each pancake for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.

3. Korean Waffles (Bungeoppang)

These fish-shaped waffles filled with red bean paste are a fun treat that can be made quickly, perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1/2 cup red bean paste

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and baking powder. Add milk and melted butter, stirring until combined.
  2. Preheat a bungeoppang mold and lightly grease it. Pour a little batter into the mold, followed by a spoonful of red bean paste, then cover with more batter.
  3. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

4. Korean Cornbread (Korean-style Corn Muffins)

This cornbread is moist and subtly sweet, making it an ideal side dish or snack.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder