Umami GuruRecipes

Hobak hotteok (호박호떡)

Korea

By · Published · Updated

Hobak Hotteok pumpkin pancakes, Korean dessert, Ghibli illustration

Warm Korean pancakes filled with pumpkin, nuts and spices. A crisp crust, delicate aroma of cinnamon and sweet pumpkin. Perfect as a dessert or snack, easy to freeze and reheat.

Ingredients

Steps

  1. Korean hobak hotteok, mixing dough ingredients, anime Studio Ghibli illustration

    In a large bowl, pour warm water, add sugar, vegetable oil and active dry yeast. Stir and let stand for about 10 minutes until the yeast begins to bubble.

  2. Korean hotteok dough mixing, Studio Ghibli style anime cooking illustration

    In a separate container, sift the all-purpose flour, glutinous rice flour and salt. Pour the milk, pumpkin puree and the flour mixture into the bowl with the yeast. Knead the dough until smooth; it will be slightly sticky.

  3. Korean hotteok dough rising process, anime illustration Ghibli style

    Cover the dough with plastic wrap, place it in a warm spot and let it rise until its volume doubles (about 1 hour).

  4. Korean hotteok filling preparation, Studio Ghibli anime illustration

    Prepare the filling: in a bowl, combine the assorted nuts, filling sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon and vanilla extract. Mix well.

  5. Korean hotteok, shaping filled dough balls, Ghibli anime illustration

    After the first rise, punch down the dough, shape it into a ball about 5–6 cm in diameter, roll it into a thick disc and make a small indentation in the center. Place 1 tbsp of filling and gently press it with a spoon.

  6. Korean hotteok cooking process illustration, Ghibli anime style

    Fold the edges of the dough toward the center and pinch them together, forming a sealed pancake.

  7. Korean hotteok pan-frying anime illustration, golden crispy Ghibli style

    Heat a skillet over medium heat, add the frying oil. Lightly oil your hands, place the pancake seam-side down and gently press with a spatula. Fry for about 1 minute, then flip and fry another minute until golden-brown. If needed, press the pancake to flatten it. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.

FAQ

What is Hobak Hotteok (호박 호떡)?

Hobak Hotteok is a traditional Korean sweet pancake filled with a mixture of pumpkin, nuts, and spices, known for its crispy exterior and soft, warm interior.

Can I make Hobak Hotteok without glutinous rice flour?

While glutinous rice flour contributes to the chewy texture of Hobak Hotteok, you can substitute a small portion with additional all-purpose flour, though the texture may vary slightly.

How can I store leftover Hobak Hotteok?

Cooked Hobak Hotteok can be frozen after cooling. Reheat them in a pan or oven until warmed through and crispy again for a delicious snack.

What kind of nuts are best for the Hobak Hotteok filling?

Assorted nuts like walnuts, peanuts, or sunflower seeds work well. You can use your favorite combination or what you have on hand for the filling.

Is Hobak Hotteok a common street food in Korea?

Yes, Hotteok in various forms, including pumpkin, is a very popular and beloved street food throughout Korea, especially during colder months.