How to Make Korean Desserts That Will Keep You Coming Back for More

Korean desserts are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, offering something unique for every sweet tooth. Whether you're a fan of chewy rice cakes or decadent bingsu, making these treats at home can be a rewarding experience. Here’s how to make some iconic Korean desserts that will keep you coming back for more.

1. Injeolmi (Korean Rice Cake)

Injeolmi is a type of chewy rice cake coated in soybean flour, making it a popular snack in Korea. It’s sweet, slightly nutty, and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup sweet rice flour (glutinous rice flour)
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup soybean flour
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

  1. In a microwave-safe bowl, mix the sweet rice flour, water, sugar, and salt until smooth.
  2. Cover with plastic wrap and microwave for 1 minute. Stir, then microwave for another minute. Repeat until the mixture thickens and is fully cooked.
  3. Transfer the mixture onto a surface lightly dusted with soybean flour. Let it cool slightly.
  4. Shape the cooled dough into small pieces and roll them in more soybean flour to coat. Enjoy!

2. Patbingsu (Shaved Ice Dessert)

Patbingsu is a refreshing dessert, especially popular in summer. It combines shaved ice with various toppings and sweet red bean paste.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups ice
  • 1 cup sweet red bean paste (pat)
  • 1/2 cup condensed milk
  • Fresh fruit (e.g., strawberries, mango, or kiwi)
  • Optional toppings (e.g., mochi, nuts, or chocolate syrup)

Instructions:

  1. Shave the ice using a blender or a traditional ice shaver until finely textured.
  2. Layer the shaved ice in a bowl, then add a generous scoop of sweet red bean paste.
  3. Drizzle condensed milk over the top and add your choice of fresh fruit and optional toppings.
  4. Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing treat!

3. Hotteok (Korean Sweet Pancakes)

Hotteok are sweet stuffed pancakes that are crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, filled with a gooey mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup warm water
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • For filling: 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or peanuts)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add warm water, kneading until it forms a dough.
  2. Let the dough rise for about an hour or until it doubles in size.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts to create the filling.
  4. Divide the risen dough into small balls, flatten them, and add a spoonful of filling in the center. Pinch to seal.
  5. Pan-fry each pancake in a little oil over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  6. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious melt-in-your-mouth experience!

4. Baekseolgi (Steamed White Cake)

Baekseolgi is a fluffy Korean steamed cake that is simple to make yet deliciously satisfying.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cake flour