German Potato Pancakes Recipe

There’s something truly comforting about a crispy, golden-brown German potato pancake. With their irresistible crunch on the outside and tender, flavorful center, these savory treats are a staple of traditional German cuisine. Whether served with applesauce for a sweet contrast or paired with sour cream for a creamy bite, they make for a delicious snack, side dish, or even a light meal.

this Recipe

I first discovered these pancakes on a chilly autumn day at a Christmas market in Germany. The smell of sizzling potatoes filled the air, and I couldn’t resist trying one fresh off the griddle. That first bite was pure perfection—crispy, salty, and deeply satisfying. Since then, I’ve been making them at home, perfecting the balance of ingredients for the perfect texture every time.

Why You’ll Love This German Potato Pancakes Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with a recipe that’s simple, delicious, and packed with comforting flavors. These crispy potato pancakes are sure to become a family favorite!

First, they’re incredibly easy to make with just a handful of pantry staples. You likely already have everything you need—potatoes, eggs, onion, and flour—making them a quick and budget-friendly option.

The texture is out of this world. The combination of grated potatoes and a hot frying pan creates that signature crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. Each bite delivers the perfect crunch!

They’re versatile and can be customized to your taste. Enjoy them as a savory side with sour cream, smoked salmon, or fresh herbs, or go the traditional route and serve them with applesauce for a sweet-savory contrast.

Plus, they’re perfect for any time of day. Serve them as a hearty breakfast, a comforting snack, or a side dish at dinner. No matter how you enjoy them, they’re bound to be a hit.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these German potato pancakes lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays an important role in achieving the best texture and flavor.

Potatoes are the star of the dish. Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds work best because they hold together well and crisp up beautifully. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they tend to be too moist and don’t crisp as well.

Onion adds depth of flavor and a slight sweetness that complements the crispy potatoes. A small yellow or white onion works best, finely grated so it blends seamlessly into the batter.

Eggs help bind the mixture together, ensuring the pancakes hold their shape as they cook. One or two eggs are enough for the perfect consistency.

Flour absorbs excess moisture and helps create a crispy texture. You can use all-purpose flour, but if you’re gluten-free, a simple swap with rice flour or potato starch works just as well.

Salt and pepper enhance the natural flavors, while a pinch of nutmeg (optional) adds a subtle warmth that’s often found in traditional German cooking.

Oil is key to achieving a crispy, golden crust. Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable or sunflower oil, for the best results.

A large frying pan or cast-iron skillet is essential for getting an even, golden-brown crisp on the pancakes. A box grater or food processor will also make shredding the potatoes and onion much easier.

How To Make This German Potato Pancakes Recipe

Making these deliciously crispy potato pancakes is easier than you think. Follow these steps for the best results!

Start by preparing the potatoes. Peel and grate them using a box grater or a food processor with a shredding attachment. Once grated, transfer them to a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect crispiness.

Next, grate the onion and mix it with the drained potatoes in a large bowl. Add the eggs, flour, salt, and pepper, then stir until everything is well combined. The mixture should be slightly sticky but not too wet—adjust with a little more flour if needed.

Heat a generous amount of oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, drop in small scoops of the potato mixture and flatten them into thin, even pancakes. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure they cook evenly.

Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the edges turn golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully using a spatula and cook until the other side is beautifully browned. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more oil to the pan as needed. Serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy, with your favorite toppings.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though they tend to disappear quickly!), storing them properly will help maintain their texture and flavor.

To store, let the pancakes cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, or until hot and crispy again.

Reheating in a skillet with a little oil will also bring back their crispy texture, while microwaving is not recommended, as it makes them soggy.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about German potato pancakes is how adaptable they are! Try these fun variations to make them your own.

For a cheesy twist, mix in some shredded Gruyère or Parmesan cheese before frying. The melted cheese adds an extra layer of richness and crispiness.

If you love herbs and spices, try adding fresh chives, parsley, or dill for a burst of flavor. A little smoked paprika or garlic powder can also enhance the savory notes.

For a healthier option, swap half the potatoes with grated zucchini or carrots. Just be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture so they stay crispy.

Make them vegan by using a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) instead of regular eggs. The pancakes will still hold together well with this simple swap.

Want to go extra crispy? Add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the batter for an even crunchier texture. It helps absorb excess moisture and enhances the golden crust.

No matter how you customize them, these German potato pancakes are sure to be a hit. So grab your frying pan and get ready to enjoy a batch of crispy, golden goodness!

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