The Essential List of Korean Baked Goods You Need to Taste

Korean cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and unique textures, and this extends to its baked goods as well. If you’re a fan of exploring delightful pastries and desserts, the following list of essential Korean baked goods will spark your interest. From sweet treats to savory snacks, each offering showcases the distinctive culinary artistry of Korea.

1. Bungeoppang (붕어빵)

Bungeoppang is a fish-shaped pastry that is often filled with sweet red bean paste. This popular street food is especially loved during the winter months. The exterior is crispy, while the interior is warm and delicious, making it a perfect snack to enjoy while strolling through the streets of Korea.

2. Hotteok (호떡)

Hotteok is another delightful street food, particularly prevalent in the colder months. These fluffy pancakes are typically filled with a mix of brown sugar, nuts, and cinnamon, then pan-fried to achieve a crispy exterior. When you bite into them, the gooey filling oozes out, providing a burst of flavor that's hard to resist.

3. Patbingsu (팥빙수)

Patbingsu isn’t exactly a baked good, but it deserves a mention. This popular Korean dessert consists of shaved ice topped with sweet red bean paste, various fruits, and sometimes condensed milk or ice cream. It's a refreshing treat for hot summer days and is perfect for sharing!

4. Choco Pie (초코파이)

Choco Pie is a well-loved snack both in Korea and abroad. It consists of two fluffy layers of cake with a gooey marshmallow filling, all coated in chocolate. Often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, Choco Pie is an iconic treat that offers a delightful combination of textures.

5. Kkwabaegi (꽈배기)

Kkwabaegi, or twisted doughnuts, are a deep-fried delicacy that is commonly dusted with sugar. They have a crunchy exterior and soft, chewy interior. Their unique twisted shape makes them eye-catching and fun to eat, adding to their popularity as a street snack.

6. Myeon (면)

While Myeon refers to noodles, Korean noodles often have baked variations that are similarly delicious. For example, baked variations of the popular japchae (stir-fried glass noodles) have a crispy texture that's a must-try for noodle lovers, providing a different twist on traditional dishes.

7. Seolgi Cake (증편)

Seolgi Cake, or steamed yellow rice cake, is made with glutinous rice and is a staple during celebrations. Its soft and chewy texture, combined with its slightly sweet flavor, makes it a delicious treat often enjoyed with family and friends. It’s commonly shaped into various figures representing good luck and prosperity.

8. Gyeongdan (경단)

Gyeongdan are small, chewy rice cakes often filled with sweet red bean paste or nuts. They're rolled in powdered soybean flour or sesame seeds, providing a unique texture with each bite. These delightful treats are perfect for tea time or as a sweet snack any time of the day.

9. Jjinppang (찐빵)

Jjinppang are steamed buns filled with various flavors, typically including sweet red bean paste or custard. These fluffy buns are soft and moist, making them a comforting treat, great for any time of the year.

10. Ddeok (떡)

Korean rice cakes, known as Ddeok, come in various forms, each with unique flavors and textures. From sweet varieties to savory versions, Ddeok is often used in celebrations and ceremonies, making it an essential part of Korean culture as well as cuisine.

Exploring the world of Korean baked goods is an exciting adventure for your taste buds. Whether you savor these delicacies in Korea or try your hand at making them at home, each sweet and savory treat offers a glimpse into the diverse culinary heritage of Korea. Don't miss out on these must-try baked goods on your next culinary journey!