These golden, crispy potato pancakes—a beloved German classic—are shredded potatoes fried to perfection and served with sweet applesauce or tangy sour cream. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting side dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Crispy outside, tender inside – The perfect texture
✅ Simple ingredients – Just potatoes, onion, and a few pantry staples
✅ Versatile – Serve for breakfast, lunch, or dinner
✅ Kid-friendly – A fun twist on hash browns
Ingredients
For the Pancakes:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled
- 1 medium yellow onion
- 2 large eggs
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For Serving:
- Applesauce (traditional)
- Sour cream
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Potatoes & Onion
- Grate potatoes and onion (use a box grater or food processor).
- Transfer to a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out all moisture.
2. Make the Batter
- Place grated mixture in a bowl. Let sit 5 mins, then pour off liquid but keep the starch at the bottom.
- Stir in eggs, flour, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
3. Fry to Crispy Perfection
- Heat 2 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Scoop ¼ cup portions of batter, flatten into pancakes.
- Fry 3–4 mins per side until golden and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels.
4. Serve Warm
- Enjoy with applesauce, sour cream, or both!
Pro Tips for Success
🔥 Keep oil hot – Adjust heat to prevent burning
🍎 Homemade applesauce – Simmer peeled apples with cinnamon for extra flavor
🧂 Salt immediately after frying – Enhances crispiness
FAQs
1. Can I make these ahead?
✅ Fry and reheat in oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5–10 mins.
2. Why are my pancakes soggy?
- Not enough moisture squeezed out – Wring the towel tightly!
- Overcrowding the pan – Fry in batches
3. Can I bake instead of fry?
✅ Yes! Brush with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 mins, flipping halfway.
4. What potatoes work best?
- Russets (high starch = crispier) or Yukon Golds (creamier texture).
5. Are they gluten-free?
✅ Substitute flour with cornstarch or GF flour blend.
Serving Suggestions
🍽 Breakfast – Top with a fried egg
🥗 Dinner side – Pair with schnitzel or roast chicken
🍯 Sweet twist – Drizzle with honey or maple syrup
Final Thoughts
These Kartoffelpuffer are crispy, comforting, and utterly delicious—just like Oma used to make! Whether you serve them sweet or savory, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
What’s your favorite way to eat potato pancakes? Share below! 👇😊
Guten Appetit! 🎉🥔
#GermanFood #PotatoPancakes #ComfortFood #EasyRecipes
