Quick 2-Ingredient Nutella Hotteok (Korean Sweet Pancakes) Recipe

Name: Quick 2-Ingredient Nutella Hotteok (Korean Sweet Pancakes)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 1 ( ounce) can refrigerated biscuits; 1/2 cup nutella; 2 tablespoons neutral oil

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

1 (16.3 ounce) can refrigerated biscuits
1/2 cup Nutella
2 tablespoons neutral oil

Directions:

Flatten each biscuit into a 4-inch circle.
Place 1 tablespoon of Nutella in the center of each biscuit.
Wrap the dough around the filling, forming a ball, and crimp the edges to seal tightly.
Flatten the filled dough ball into a patty shape.
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat.
Add 2 teaspoons of oil to the skillet.
Working with 2 to 3 filled biscuits at a time, place the dough, seam side down, into the skillet.
Cover the skillet with a lid and cook until the bottom side is golden brown and toasted, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Flip the pastries and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until golden on both sides and the dough is fully cooked.
Repeat with the remaining filled pastries, adding more oil as needed.

Cook's Note: Feel free to experiment with different fillings like peanut butter and jelly or brown sugar and pecans.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories	308
Total Fat	17g
Saturated Fat	7g
Cholesterol	2mg
Sodium	335mg
Total Carbohydrate	34g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Total Sugars	9g
Protein	5g
Calcium	149mg
Iron	2mg
Potassium	126mg

Origin and History of Hotteok

Hotteok is a traditional Korean street food, often enjoyed during the cold winter months. It is believed to have originated in the late 19th century, during the time when Korea was influenced by the influx of foreign traders. Originally, hotteok was made with simple dough and filled with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and crushed nuts, making it a sweet and hearty treat. The modern-day version of hotteok, including variations with chocolate, fruit, or even Nutella, showcases how this beloved snack has evolved while retaining its core flavor and concept.

Regional Variations

While hotteok is a nationwide favorite in Korea, different regions have their own variations of the dish. For instance, in the southern parts of Korea, you might find hotteok filled with savory ingredients like kimchi or vegetables, while the northern regions stick to the traditional sweet fillings. The Nutella version, a more recent twist, is particularly popular among younger generations and those looking for a quick, indulgent version of the classic.

How Nutella Hotteok Differs from Similar Dishes

Compared to other popular Korean pancake variations like "jeon" or "bungeoppang" (fish-shaped pastry filled with red bean paste), hotteok is distinguished by its doughy, chewy texture and the fact that it is often deep-fried, creating a crispy golden crust. The Nutella filling gives it a distinctly Westernized touch, making it more like a dessert than the savory versions of hotteok typically served in Korea. Additionally, the quick method of using refrigerated biscuit dough in this recipe sets it apart from the traditional hand-rolled dough, making it an easy and fast alternative for those looking for a shortcut without sacrificing taste.

Where Hotteok is Typically Served

In Korea, hotteok is mostly served at street stalls during the colder months, especially in busy city centers and markets like those in Seoul's Insadong or Myeongdong districts. Hotteok vendors are a common sight during winter festivals, offering freshly made, piping hot pancakes to people braving the chill. Although the Nutella version is a modern twist, it can be found in both Korean cafs and fusion dessert shops around the world, offering a new, international take on this iconic Korean treat.

Interesting Facts about Hotteok

The name "hotteok" literally means "filled pancake" in Korean, referring to the way the dough is stuffed with sugary fillings.
Hotteok is often eaten as a quick breakfast or snack, especially during festivals or holidays such as Chuseok (Korean harvest festival).
There are even competitions in Korea for the best hotteok, with different vendors competing to perfect their dough recipe and fillings.
While the Nutella version is a contemporary creation, some hotteok sellers in Korea have started experimenting with other fillings like ice cream, peanut butter, and even savory options like cheese.

Conclusion

Nutella hotteok is an exciting and accessible version of the traditional Korean street food, perfect for anyone craving something sweet and indulgent. By using refrigerated biscuit dough, this recipe cuts down the preparation time while still delivering that signature crispy, chewy texture. Whether you're enjoying them as a quick dessert or a comforting breakfast, Nutella-filled hotteok offers a fusion of flavors that connects Korea's rich culinary heritage with modern tastes.

FAQ about Quick 2-Ingredient Nutella Hotteok (Korean Sweet Pancakes) Recipe

After cooking, Nutella Hotteok should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep them longer, it's best to refrigerate them for up to a week. Make sure to reheat them before serving for the best texture.

Yes, you can freeze Nutella Hotteok. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each pancake individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply heat them in a skillet or oven until warm.

You can get creative with the filling. Some popular alternatives to Nutella include peanut butter and jelly, brown sugar and pecans, or even cream cheese with fruit preserves. Just make sure the filling is spread evenly and not too runny to prevent leakage during cooking.

Yes, if you prefer to make the dough from scratch, you can use a basic dough recipe that includes flour, sugar, baking powder, butter, and milk. The texture might be slightly different from the biscuit version, but it will still work well as a base for the filling.

It’s best to use a neutral oil such as vegetable or canola oil, as it won’t interfere with the flavor of the Nutella Hotteok. Avoid using strongly flavored oils like olive oil, as they may affect the overall taste of the pancakes.

Yes, a non-stick pan is ideal for cooking Nutella Hotteok, as it helps prevent the dough from sticking and ensures a smooth cooking process. Make sure to cook over medium-low heat to achieve a golden brown, crispy exterior without burning the dough.

The lid helps trap heat and cook the dough more evenly. While it’s possible to cook without a lid, using one will result in a more consistent texture. If you don’t have a lid, you can use a large plate or another pan to cover the skillet.

To prevent filling leakage, ensure that the edges of the dough are tightly sealed after wrapping it around the filling. Be gentle when flipping the hotteok to avoid opening the seam. Also, avoid overfilling the dough with Nutella or any other filling.