German Potato Pancakes

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Golden, crispy, and irresistibly comforting—German Potato Pancakes are a beloved dish that brings warmth to any table. Whether enjoyed as a savory side, a quick breakfast, or a snack dipped in applesauce or sour cream, these hearty pancakes are a delicious way to use simple ingredients in the most satisfying way possible.

Rooted in tradition and loved across generations, these potato pancakes (also known as Reibekuchen or Kartoffelpuffer in Germany) are fried until perfectly crisp on the outside while remaining soft and flavorful inside. They’re easy to make and deliver big on flavor, making them a go-to for cozy mornings or festive dinners.

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Why You’ll Love This German Potato Pancakes Recipe

This recipe hits all the right notes: it’s simple, comforting, and adaptable. You can make them in under 30 minutes, using ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. They’re a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults, and you can customize the flavors with your favorite herbs or toppings. Plus, they make an excellent base for creative meals.

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What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Gold are ideal for this recipe. They hold together well when grated and fried, giving the pancakes that desirable crispy texture on the outside with a tender bite inside. Avoid using waxy varieties like red potatoes, as they contain more moisture and may result in a soggy pancake.

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Ingredients for the German Potato Pancakes

Each ingredient in these potato pancakes serves a specific purpose, making them crisp, flavorful, and comforting.

• Russet or Yukon Gold Potatoes: These starchy potatoes provide structure and crispiness to the pancakes.
• Onion: Adds a savory depth and slightly sweet flavor once cooked.
• Eggs: Helps bind the mixture together, giving the pancakes a cohesive texture.
• All-Purpose Flour: Absorbs moisture and provides stability during frying.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Black Pepper: Adds a mild spice and warmth.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): Brings a fresh, herby contrast to the richness of the potatoes.
• Oil for Frying: A neutral oil like vegetable or canola creates that perfect golden crust.

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How To Make the German Potato Pancakes

Let’s walk through each step so your potato pancakes turn out golden and delicious every time.

Step 1: Grate the Potatoes and Onion

Peel and grate the potatoes using a box grater or food processor. Grate the onion as well. Place both in a clean towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible to avoid soggy pancakes.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes and onion with eggs, flour, salt, pepper, and parsley if using. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Add a generous amount of oil to a skillet and heat over medium-high. The oil should sizzle when a bit of batter is dropped in.

Step 4: Fry the Pancakes

Scoop a heaping tablespoon of the mixture into the skillet and flatten slightly with the back of a spoon. Fry 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Transfer the cooked pancakes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with sour cream, applesauce, or your favorite dip.

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How to Serve and Store These German Potato Pancakes

German Potato Pancakes are best served hot and crispy right out of the pan. This recipe yields about 10 pancakes and can feed 4 people as a side dish or 2 hungry diners as a main. Serve them immediately to enjoy their peak crispiness. If you need to keep them warm before serving, place them on a wire rack in a low oven (around 200°F).

To store leftovers, let the pancakes cool completely and place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot skillet or in the oven to regain some of the original crisp texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

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What to Serve With German Potato Pancakes?

Sour Cream and Chives

The cool, creamy texture of sour cream with a sprinkle of fresh chives complements the savory richness of the pancakes.

Applesauce

A classic pairing in German cuisine, the sweet-tart flavor of applesauce balances the salty crunch of the pancakes.

Smoked Salmon

Add a gourmet touch with slices of smoked salmon and a dollop of crème fraîche.

Poached or Fried Eggs

Turn this into a hearty breakfast or brunch dish with perfectly cooked eggs on the side or on top.

Cucumber Salad

A light, vinegary cucumber salad cuts through the richness and adds a refreshing contrast.

Roasted Vegetables

Pair with oven-roasted root veggies for a comforting vegetarian meal.

Sausages

Bratwurst or any smoky sausage makes for a hearty, traditional German combo.

Pickled Red Cabbage

Bright, tangy, and colorful, pickled cabbage adds crunch and acidity to balance the dish.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these potato pancakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them in advance and reheat them in a skillet or oven to revive their crispiness. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze German Potato Pancakes?
Absolutely. Let them cool completely, then freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in a skillet or oven for best texture.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
You can! Sweet potatoes will yield a slightly softer pancake with a natural sweetness. Consider adding warming spices like cinnamon or nutmeg if you make the swap.

Why are my pancakes soggy?
Soggy pancakes usually mean excess moisture. Be sure to wring out the grated potatoes and onion thoroughly, and fry in hot oil to ensure crisping.

Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or even cornstarch for a similar result.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest side dish or snack board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you top it with smoked salmon or stick with the classic applesauce?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

For more cozy dishes and daily inspiration, check out my Pinterest board.

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Conclusion

German Potato Pancakes are one of those timeless recipes that never go out of style. They’re crunchy, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. Whether you serve them as a cozy breakfast, a savory snack, or a side dish to a festive dinner, they’ll quickly become a family favorite. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this is a recipe worth making again and again.

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