These Korean Cheese Hotteok combine the perfect balance of crispy and gooey, where the hot, fried dough cradles a molten core of sweet cinnamon and melted mozzarella. It’s the ultimate comfort food, with the sweet and savory flavors coming together in a delightful bite. This dish is perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a fun dessert. You can even customize the filling by adding chocolate or nuts for a twist. Easy to make yet incredibly satisfying, these hotteok are guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering or simply as a treat when you’re craving something warm and indulgent.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tablespoon sugar
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1 teaspoon instant yeast
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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3/4 cup warm water
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1 tablespoon vegetable oil
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1/2 cup brown sugar
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1 tablespoon butter (for frying)
Directions:
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In a bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Gradually add warm water and mix until the dough forms. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth, then cover with a damp cloth and let it rise for 1 hour.
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While the dough rises, prepare the filling. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon.
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Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide into 8 equal portions. Flatten each portion into a small disc.
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Place a spoonful of the cinnamon-sugar mixture and a generous amount of shredded mozzarella in the center of each disc. Pinch the edges to seal.
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Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Fry each filled dough ball for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
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Remove from the pan and serve hot. The cheese will be gooey and delicious inside!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Kcal: 230 kcal per serving | Servings: 8 servings
Introduction to Korean Cheese Hotteok
Korean Cheese Hotteok is a delightful twist on the traditional Korean street food, Hotteok. Typically filled with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and crushed nuts, the addition of mozzarella cheese brings a savory, gooey surprise to this beloved snack. Originating from the streets of Korea, Hotteok has become a comforting treat enjoyed during colder months or as a quick indulgence. Its crispy, golden-brown exterior and soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior make it irresistible to anyone who takes a bite.
Whether you’re looking for a delicious breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a sweet dessert, Korean Cheese Hotteok satisfies every craving. This recipe captures the essence of Korean street food with its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, bringing a comforting and indulgent experience right to your kitchen.
Why Korean Cheese Hotteok Is the Perfect Comfort Food
Korean Cheese Hotteok offers the best of both worlds — the comforting sweetness of traditional Hotteok, enhanced with the richness of melted mozzarella cheese. The crispy outer layer contrasts beautifully with the gooey, cheesy filling, creating a satisfying texture that’s hard to beat. The cinnamon-sugar filling adds a warm sweetness that complements the cheese’s richness, making every bite a harmonious experience.
The recipe is easy to follow and requires basic ingredients, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced bakers alike. The result? A snack that’s perfect for any time of day, from breakfast to dessert. Plus, it’s a fun treat to make with family or friends, especially when served fresh and hot right out of the pan.
Health Benefits of Korean Cheese Hotteok
While this recipe is undoubtedly indulgent, it also offers some health benefits, especially when made with high-quality ingredients. For instance, the use of mozzarella cheese provides a good source of calcium and protein, which supports bone health and muscle repair. Additionally, Hotteok is made with yeast, which promotes digestive health and can aid in gut function.
Although it’s a treat, it’s still a better option compared to many other fried pastries and street foods, especially when made with less sugar or with healthier oil alternatives. You can also make modifications to make this recipe more nutritious, such as using whole wheat flour or adding fruit or nuts to the filling for added fiber and healthy fats.
How to Customize Your Korean Cheese Hotteok
One of the best things about Korean Cheese Hotteok is how versatile it is. While the traditional recipe calls for a simple filling of cinnamon, brown sugar, and mozzarella cheese, you can easily modify it to suit your preferences. For instance, you can:
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Swap mozzarella for a different melting cheese, like cheddar or gouda, for a more intense cheese flavor.
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Add chocolate chips, peanut butter, or Nutella to the filling for a richer, dessert-like experience.
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Include chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds for an added crunch and extra nutrients.
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For a healthier version, try using whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend, making this a snack for everyone, including those with dietary restrictions.
Why You Should Try Making Korean Cheese Hotteok at Home
Making Korean Cheese Hotteok at home offers an authentic, homemade experience that you won’t get from store-bought versions. When you make this recipe yourself, you control the quality of the ingredients, the sweetness, and the texture. You also have the option to adjust the recipe to your tastes, making it the perfect treat for yourself, your family, or your guests.
Moreover, it’s a fun and interactive recipe that allows you to experiment with different fillings and flavors. The simple technique of sealing the dough around the filling and frying it to a crispy golden-brown perfection is enjoyable to do, making it an engaging experience for anyone in the kitchen.
Conclusion
Korean Cheese Hotteok is a wonderful way to explore Korean cuisine and indulge in a sweet and savory treat that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or as a dessert, the crispy exterior and gooey, cheesy filling are what make this snack so special. This recipe is incredibly versatile, easy to make, and a true crowd-pleaser. The delightful fusion of cheese, cinnamon, and brown sugar makes Korean Cheese Hotteok the ultimate comfort food that’s just waiting to be shared. The combination of cheese and cinnamon creates a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting, making it the perfect introduction to Korean street food. Don’t hesitate to try making it at home and enjoy the sweet, cheesy goodness straight from your own kitchen!
