Korean Cheese Hotteok Recipe
Introduction
Korean Cheese Hotteok is a warm, sweet, and chewy street food favorite filled with gooey mozzarella cheese. This simple recipe brings a delightful twist to traditional hotteok that’s perfect for any time you crave a comforting snack.

Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3/4 cup warm milk
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and sugar. Gradually add the warm milk and mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth, then cover and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Step 2: Divide the dough into small balls about the size of a golf ball. Flatten each ball slightly, place a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center, and carefully pinch the edges to seal the filling inside.
- Step 3: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Place each filled dough ball seam side down and gently press it flat with a spatula. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and gooey.
- Step 4: Remove from the pan and let cool slightly before serving warm.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, mix some sugar and cinnamon into the dough or sprinkle on the hotteok after cooking.
- Try adding a bit of cream cheese with the mozzarella for a richer filling.
- If you want a sweeter filling, combine mozzarella with a spoonful of honey or sweetened red bean paste.
Storage
Store any leftover hotteok in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a pan over low heat until the cheese melts again, or microwave briefly.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can use cheeses like cheddar or a cheese blend, but mozzarella works best for its meltiness and mild flavor.
Do I need to let the dough rise?
Letting the dough rise is important for a soft, chewy texture and to allow the yeast to activate properly.
PrintKorean Cheese Hotteok Recipe
Korean Cheese Hotteok is a delightful sweet and savory Korean street food consisting of a soft dough filled with gooey mozzarella cheese, pan-fried to a perfect golden crisp. This popular snack combines a slightly chewy exterior with a melty cheesy center, making it an irresistible treat for cheese lovers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 hotteoks 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
Filling
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, dry yeast, and sugar. Gradually add warm milk while stirring until a sticky dough forms.
- Let the dough rise: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rest in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Divide and fill the dough: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 6 equal portions. Flatten each portion into a small circle and place a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center. Fold the edges over the cheese and seal tightly.
- Pan-fry the hotteok: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the filled dough balls seam-side down and flatten slightly with a spatula. Fry until golden brown and crisp on the bottom, about 2-3 minutes. Flip and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes until golden and the cheese has melted inside.
Notes
- Use warm milk to activate the yeast properly and help the dough rise.
- Make sure to seal the edges of the dough well to prevent the cheese from leaking during frying.
- You can add a bit of sugar inside the filling for a sweeter version if desired.
- Serve hot for the best melty texture and flavor.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in a skillet to maintain crispiness.
Keywords: Korean hotteok, cheese hotteok, Korean street food, pan-fried snacks, mozzarella hotteok

