A Guide to Making the Best Korean Desserts

Korean desserts are known for their unique flavors, delightful textures, and beautiful presentations. If you're looking to indulge in some sweet treats or impress friends with your culinary skills, this guide will walk you through making some of the best Korean desserts.

1. Bingsu (Shaved Ice)

Bingsu is a popular Korean dessert perfect for hot summer days. This shaved ice dessert is topped with various ingredients such as sweetened condensed milk, fruit, and red beans.

Ingredients: Fine ice, sweetened condensed milk, fruit (like mango, strawberries, or kiwi), and Korean rice cakes.

Instructions:

  • Shave ice finely and layer it in a bowl.
  • Drizzle sweetened condensed milk over the ice.
  • Add your choice of fruits and toppings on top.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing treat!

2. Tteok (Korean Rice Cake)

Tteok refers to a variety of rice cakes made from glutinous rice. These can be savory or sweet and are essential for many Korean celebrations.

Ingredients: Glutinous rice flour, sugar, and water. Fillings can include red bean paste or ground peanuts.

Instructions:

  • Mix glutinous rice flour, sugar, and water until smooth.
  • Steam the mixture for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • Once cooked, let it cool, then mold it into shapes and fill with desired filling.

3. Hotteok (Sweet Pancakes)

Hotteok is a beloved Korean street food, especially in winter. These chewy, sweet pancakes are filled with a warm mixture of sugar, nuts, and cinnamon.

Ingredients: All-purpose flour, sugar, yeast, warm water, cinnamon, and nuts (like walnuts or peanuts).

Instructions:

  • Combine flour, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Add warm water and knead until the dough is smooth.
  • Let the dough rise for about an hour.
  • Mix sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts for the filling.
  • Divide the dough, fill each piece with the filling, and shape into a round ball.
  • Flatten the balls and cook on a skillet until golden brown on both sides.

4. Patbingsu (Red Bean Shaved Ice)

Patbingsu is a variation of bingsu that features sweet red bean paste. It is a classic dessert that delights many.

Ingredients: Shaved ice, sweet red bean paste, sweetened condensed milk, and assorted fruits.

Instructions:

  • Prepare shaved ice and place it in a bowl.
  • Add a generous amount of red bean paste over the ice.
  • Top with sweetened condensed milk and colorful fruits.
  • Mix before eating for a harmonious blend of flavors!

5. Korean Honey Cake (Baumkuchen)

This layered cake is known for its rich flavor and beautiful rings resembling tree growth. It’s both a treat and a visual delight.

Ingredients: Flour, eggs, sugar, honey, and butter.

Instructions:

  • Mix eggs, sugar, and honey until combined.
  • Sift in flour and fold in melted butter.
  • Pour a thin layer into a cake pan and bake until set. Repeat until all batter is used.
  • Let cool, slice, and enjoy with a cup of tea.

These delightful Korean desserts reflect the rich culinary heritage of Korea. Each recipe invites you to explore new flavors and textures, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you're celebrating a special event or simply treating yourself, these desserts are sure to impress!