The Creamiest Buttery German Potato Pancakes Recipe

Crispy, golden potato pancakes have been a staple in my German kitchen since childhood.

Every bite transports me back to cozy weekend mornings with my grandmother.

She would grate potatoes with remarkable precision, creating the most delectable pancakes imaginable.

Salt and herbs blend perfectly in this traditional recipe that celebrates simple ingredients.

Comfort arrives through these delightfully crisp potato creations that crackle when touched.

The aroma fills the entire kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the warm skillet.

You’ll find these pancakes irresistibly delicious and surprisingly easy to prepare.

Savor each golden morsel and let the memories of home-cooked comfort wash over you.

Why You’ll Love Buttery German Potato Pancakes

• Crunch into Crispy Comfort: These potato pancakes deliver an irresistible golden-brown exterior with a satisfyingly crisp texture that cracks delightfully with each bite.
• Whip Up Effortless Elegance: The simple ingredients and straightforward cooking method make these pancakes perfect for home cooks of all skill levels, requiring minimal culinary expertise.
• Celebrate Versatile Deliciousness: Adaptable to both sweet and savory preferences, these pancakes shine as a breakfast treat, side dish, or quick snack that appeals to everyone from kids to grandparents.
• Savor Speedy Satisfaction: From grating potatoes to serving hot pancakes, this recipe takes just 30 minutes, making it an ideal solution for busy families craving a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Smart Tricks For Buttery German Potato Pancakes

• Squeeze Out Moisture: Thoroughly drain grated potatoes and onions using a clean kitchen towel to ensure crispy, golden-brown pancakes that aren't soggy.
• Balance Butter and Oil: Mix butter and oil in the skillet for a perfect golden crust and rich flavor without burning the delicate potato pancakes.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Fry pancakes in small batches to maintain consistent heat and prevent steaming, which can make them less crispy.
• Season Thoughtfully: Experiment with nutmeg, salt, and pepper to enhance the potato pancakes' natural flavors without overwhelming the dish.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy the pancakes hot and crisp right after cooking to maximize their texture and taste, pairing with traditional accompaniments like applesauce or sour cream.

Save And Reheat Buttery German Potato Pancakes The Right Way

• Refrigerate: Store leftover potato pancakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Freeze: Wrap individual pancakes in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Frozen pancakes stay fresh for 1-2 months.
• Reheat Oven: Restore crispiness by baking frozen or refrigerated pancakes at 375°F for 10-12 minutes. Spread pancakes on a baking sheet in a single layer for even heating.
• Reheat Skillet: Quickly crisp up pancakes in a heated skillet with a touch of butter or oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and warm throughout.

Pair Buttery German Potato Pancakes With These Sides

• Pair with Tangy Applesauce: Homemade applesauce cuts through the richness of the buttery pancakes, providing a sweet-tart contrast that elevates the entire dish.
• Complement with Crisp Riesling: A chilled German Riesling with its slight sweetness and high acidity perfectly balances the savory, crispy potato pancakes and cleanses the palate.
• Match with Creamy Sour Cream: A dollop of cold, smooth sour cream adds a luxurious texture and cooling effect that enhances the warmth and crispiness of the pancakes.
• Serve with Herbed Salad: A light, fresh green salad with dill and chives creates a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty, golden-brown potato pancakes, adding brightness to the meal.

Buttery German Potato Pancakes Recipe Changes To Try

• Herb-Infused Comfort: Fold finely chopped fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill into the potato mixture for a bright, aromatic flavor profile that elevates the traditional recipe.
• Cheesy Potato Adventure: Sprinkle grated sharp cheddar or gruyère cheese into the batter before frying, creating pockets of melted goodness that add richness and depth to each crispy pancake.
• Spicy Southwest Spin: Mix in diced jalapeños, a pinch of smoked paprika, and top with a dollop of chipotle sour cream to transform these classic pancakes into a zesty, southwestern-inspired dish.
• Smoky Bacon Blast: Incorporate crumbled crispy bacon bits directly into the potato mixture and serve with a side of maple syrup for a sweet and savory combination that brings extra crunch and flavor.

Buttery German Potato Pancakes FAQ Tips

• Why do I need to squeeze out moisture from potatoes and onions?

Removing excess liquid helps create crispy, golden-brown potato pancakes that aren’t soggy or falling apart. The drier the mixture, the crispier the result.

• Can I make these potato pancakes ahead of time?

While best served fresh and hot, you can keep them warm in a low-temperature oven (200°F) for about 30 minutes before serving. They’ll maintain their crispness and flavor.

• What's the purpose of adding nutmeg to the recipe?

Nutmeg adds a subtle, warm depth of flavor that complements the potatoes and enhances the overall taste of the pancakes. It’s a traditional German touch that brings complexity to the dish.

• How do I know when the potato pancakes are perfectly cooked?

Look for a golden-brown color and crispy edges. The pancakes should be firm and hold together when flipped. Cooking 3-4 minutes per side over medium heat ensures a perfect texture and even cooking.

What’s Inside Buttery German Potato Pancakes

Main Ingredients:

Potato and Onion Base: – Potatoes, Onion: Foundational ingredients that provide texture and authentic flavor. Russet or starchy potatoes work best for crispy pancakes. Fresh onions add depth and subtle sharpness.

Binding Ingredients: – Eggs, Flour: Help hold the pancake mixture together and create structure. Large eggs work perfectly. All-purpose flour recommended for consistent binding.

Seasoning Ingredients: – Salt, Pepper, Nutmeg: Essential for enhancing overall taste profile. Use freshly ground black pepper for maximum flavor. Nutmeg adds warm, subtle complexity to the pancakes.

Cooking Ingredients: – Butter, Vegetable Oil: Create golden, crispy exterior and prevent sticking. Use unsalted butter for better control of salt content. Neutral-flavored oil helps achieve even browning.

How To Make Buttery German Potato Pancakes

Step 1: Prepare Potato and Onion Mixture

Grab a box grater and shred potatoes and onions into a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze the mixture vigorously to remove every drop of moisture. This crucial step ensures your pancakes turn out wonderfully crisp and golden. The drier the mixture, the crunchier the result!

Step 2: Create Flavorful Batter

• Shredded potatoes
• Grated onions
• Eggs
• All-purpose flour
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Ground nutmeg

Blend everything together until the ingredients are perfectly incorporated. The mixture should look slightly wet but not runny.

Step 3: Warm Up the Cooking Surface

Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add a generous combination of butter and vegetable oil, creating a delicious cooking foundation. The blend of fats helps achieve that gorgeous golden-brown exterior.

Step 4: Craft Perfect Pancakes

Scoop handfuls of potato mixture into the sizzling skillet. Gently press each portion with a spatula to create thin, circular pancakes. Cook 2-3 pancakes simultaneously, giving each enough space to crisp up beautifully. Watch for edges turning golden brown, then flip with confidence. Each side needs about 3-4 minutes of cooking time.

Step 5: Drain and Repeat

Transfer finished pancakes to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb extra oil. Continue cooking remaining batter, replenishing butter and oil as needed. Maintain consistent heat for perfect results every time.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Tangy applesauce
• Cool sour cream
• Chopped fresh herbs
• Smoked salmon
• Applesauce with cinnamon

Buttery German Potato Pancakes Recipe

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4.8 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 10 1x

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Description

Crispy, golden German potato pancakes dance with rustic charm on your plate, promising a delightful culinary journey through traditional flavors. Tender potato shreds and savory herbs come together, inviting you to savor each delectable bite of this classic comfort dish.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 lbs (900 g) potatoes, peeled and grated
• 1 small onion, grated
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup (30 g) all-purpose flour

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Cooking Fats:

• 3 tablespoons butter (for frying)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)

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Instructions

1. Extract maximum moisture from freshly grated potatoes and onions by firmly wringing them inside a clean kitchen cloth, ensuring an optimal crispy texture for the upcoming pancakes.
2. Create a harmonious mixture by incorporating the well-drained potato and onion shreds with eggs, introducing flour, seasoning with salt, pepper, and a delicate hint of nutmeg to elevate the flavor profile.
3. Establish a medium-heat cooking environment in a spacious skillet, introducing a complementary blend of butter and oil to facilitate an even, golden-brown cooking surface.
4. Carefully deposit precise portions of the potato mixture into the heated skillet, gently flattening each mound with a utensil to form uniform pancake shapes, allowing 2-3 pancakes to cook simultaneously without overcrowding.
5. Monitor the cooking process, allowing each pancake to transform into a crisp, amber-toned delicacy, requiring approximately 3-4 minutes per side while maintaining an attentive eye on heat intensity to prevent scorching.
6. Transfer the freshly prepared pancakes onto an absorbent paper towel-lined surface to eliminate excess cooking oil, replenishing the skillet with additional butter and oil as necessary to complete the batch.
7. Present the steaming potato pancakes immediately, accompanied by traditional garnishes such as tangy applesauce, rich sour cream, or integrated into a savory meal presentation.

Notes

• Moisture Removal Matters: Squeeze out excess liquid from potatoes and onions thoroughly to achieve ultra-crispy pancakes that aren’t soggy or falling apart.
• Flexible Flour Options: Swap regular flour with gluten-free alternatives like almond or rice flour for those with wheat sensitivities, maintaining the same delicious texture.
• Perfect Frying Technique: Use a combination of butter and oil to prevent burning while creating a golden, crisp exterior that’s restaurant-quality delicious.
• Temperature Control Tricks: Keep skillet at medium heat and watch closely, adjusting temperature to ensure even browning without burning the delicate potato mixture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: German

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 10
• Calories: 170
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg