Simple Recipes for Authentic Korean Baked Goods

Korean baked goods are beloved for their unique flavors and textures. With a blend of traditional techniques and modern twists, baking these treats at home can be a delightful experience. Here, we bring you some simple recipes for authentic Korean baked goods that you can easily try in your kitchen.

1. Korean Honey Castella Cake (갈라떼)

Honey Castella is a soft and fluffy sponge cake that originated from the Portuguese. It has become a popular treat in Korea.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp baking powder

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. In another bowl, mix vegetable oil, honey, milk, and vanilla extract.
  4. Slowly combine the wet and dry ingredients, adding flour and baking powder until well incorporated.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  6. Let it cool before slicing and serving.

2. Korean Red Bean Bread (앙금빵)

This sweet bread filled with red bean paste is a beloved snack in Korea.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup warm milk
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 packet of yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup red bean paste

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter, and knead until smooth.
  3. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it doubles in size.
  4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Punch down the dough and divide it into small balls. Flatten each ball and place a spoonful of red bean paste in the center. Pinch to seal.
  6. Place the filled dough on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

3. Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread (크림치즈갈릭빵)

This deliciously sweet and savory garlic bread is filled with cream cheese, making it a popular choice for many.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups bread flour
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 packet of yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tbsp minced garlic
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Activate yeast by dissolving it in warm milk with sugar and letting it sit for 10 minutes.
  2. Mix the flour and salt in a large mixing bowl, then add the yeast mixture and softened butter. Knead until smooth.
  3. Let the dough rise for about an hour until it doubles in size.
  4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  5. Divide the dough into small pieces, flatten them, and