Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and golden – The perfect balance of crunchy exterior and tender inside.
- Easy to make – Simple ingredients and quick preparation.
- Versatile – Enjoy them savory with sour cream or sweet with applesauce.
- Traditional German comfort food – A nostalgic dish with rich history.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 lbs potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and grated
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Directions
- Prepare the potatoes – Peel and grate the potatoes using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible.
- Grate the onion – Finely grate the onion and add it to the potatoes.
- Mix the batter – In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes and onion with eggs, flour, and salt. Stir well to form a thick batter.
- Heat the oil – In a large skillet, heat about ¼ inch of oil over medium-high heat.
- Fry the pancakes – Scoop small portions of the batter into the hot oil, flattening them into round pancakes. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and serve – Transfer the pancakes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes about 10-12 pancakes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Cheesy twist – Add shredded cheese like Gruyère or Parmesan to the batter.
- Spiced version – Enhance the flavor with garlic powder, smoked paprika, or nutmeg.
- Gluten-free – Use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
- Herb-infused – Mix in fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill for extra flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze – Freeze cooked pancakes in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheat – Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, in an oven at 350°F for 10 minutes, or in an air fryer for 5 minutes.
FAQs
How do I prevent my potato pancakes from getting soggy?
Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated potatoes before mixing the batter.
Can I make potato pancakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter in advance, but it’s best to cook them fresh for maximum crispiness.
What oil is best for frying potato pancakes?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as canola, vegetable, or sunflower oil.
Can I bake potato pancakes instead of frying?
Yes, bake them at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Are potato pancakes the same as hash browns?
No, potato pancakes have a batter with eggs and flour, while hash browns are usually just shredded potatoes.
What toppings go well with German potato pancakes?
Traditional toppings include applesauce, sour cream, or even smoked salmon.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes will work, but the texture and taste will be slightly different.
How do I keep potato pancakes warm while cooking in batches?
Place cooked pancakes on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven to keep them warm.
Why did my potato pancakes fall apart?
If they fall apart, you may need to add a bit more flour or egg to help bind them together.
Can I use a food processor to grate the potatoes?
Yes, a food processor with a grating attachment makes the process much faster and easier.
Conclusion
German potato pancakes are a classic, crispy delight that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve them as a side dish, a main course, or a snack, they are sure to impress. Try different variations, pair them with your favorite toppings, and enjoy this traditional comfort food at home.
PrintGerman Potato Pancakes
German Potato Pancakes, also known as “Kartoffelpuffer,” are crispy, golden treats made from grated potatoes, eggs, and onions. They are a versatile dish perfect for savory or sweet toppings, such as sour cream or applesauce. Easy to prepare, these traditional German pancakes bring a taste of comfort food to any table.
- Prep Time: 15min
- Cook Time: 20min
- Total Time: 35min
- Yield: Makes about 10-12 pancakes
- Category: Side Dish, Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: German
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 lbs potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and grated
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Oil for frying (canola, vegetable, or sunflower oil recommended)
Instructions
- Prepare the potatoes: Peel and grate the potatoes using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible.
- Grate the onion: Finely grate the onion and add it to the potatoes.
- Mix the batter: In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes and onion with eggs, flour, and salt. Stir well to form a thick batter.
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat about ¼ inch of oil over medium-high heat.
- Fry the pancakes: Scoop small portions of the batter into the hot oil, flattening them into round pancakes. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and serve: Transfer the pancakes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
Notes
- For a cheesy twist, add shredded cheese like Gruyère or Parmesan to the batter.
- Spiced versions can include garlic powder, smoked paprika, or nutmeg.
- Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill can be mixed into the batter for extra flavor.
