Authentic German Potato Pancakes

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Golden, crispy on the outside and tender inside, authentic German potato pancakes, also known as Kartoffelpuffer, are a classic comfort dish that brings a hearty taste of traditional German cuisine to your table. Whether served sweet with applesauce or savory with sour cream, these pancakes are a staple in German households and festivals.

There’s something deeply satisfying about making them from scratch. Freshly grated potatoes, a few simple ingredients, and a sizzling hot pan are all it takes to create a batch of these deliciously crisp pancakes. They’re fast, filling, and can easily be adapted to suit any meal of the day.

Why You’ll Love This Authentic German Potato Pancakes Recipe

This recipe keeps it simple and traditional. It highlights the natural flavor of potatoes and offers the perfect crunch-to-softness ratio. With no fancy ingredients or complicated steps, these pancakes come together quickly and make for an incredibly satisfying bite every time.

Plus, they’re versatile. Serve them as a side dish, a snack, or even the main event with various toppings. The choice is yours.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use for Potato Pancakes?

For the crispiest results, starchy potatoes like Russets are the best pick. They have less moisture and help create that classic crunchy edge that defines a good potato pancake. Yukon Golds can work too if you want a creamier interior. Whatever variety you choose, be sure to squeeze out the excess water after grating to avoid soggy pancakes.

Ingredients for the Authentic German Potato Pancakes

To make the perfect German potato pancakes, you only need a few pantry staples. Each ingredient plays a key role in achieving the ideal texture and flavor.

Potatoes: The base of the pancake, starchy potatoes yield the best crisp.

Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth that balances the potato flavor.

Eggs: Help bind everything together, ensuring the pancakes hold their shape.

Flour: Gives structure and absorbs some of the excess moisture.

Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.

Pepper: Adds a gentle heat and seasoning.

Oil: For frying, use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola or sunflower.

How To Make the Authentic German Potato Pancakes

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes and Onion

Peel and grate the potatoes using the coarse side of a box grater. Do the same with the onion. Place the grated mixture in a clean towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is essential for crispiness.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, combine the grated potato and onion with eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly mixed. The mixture should be slightly sticky and hold together when pressed.

Step 3: Fry the Pancakes

Heat a generous layer of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, spoon about 1/4 cup of the mixture into the pan and flatten it slightly with the back of the spoon. Fry until golden brown and crisp, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Step 4: Drain and Serve

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

How to Serve and Store Authentic German Potato Pancakes

These pancakes are best enjoyed fresh and hot out of the skillet. They serve 4 people as a side dish or 2 as a main meal. If you need to keep them warm before serving, place them on a baking sheet in a low oven.

To store leftovers, let them cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot skillet or oven to bring back the crisp.

What to Serve With Potato Pancakes?

Applesauce

A sweet and traditional German pairing that cuts through the richness of the pancakes.

Sour Cream

Cool and tangy, sour cream balances the savory flavors beautifully.

Smoked Salmon

For a more upscale twist, top with smoked salmon, capers, and a dollop of creme fraiche.

Sausages

Serve alongside bratwurst or kielbasa for a filling German-inspired meal.

Green Salad

A light, vinegary salad helps contrast the crispy, starchy pancakes.

Fried Eggs

Top a warm pancake with a sunny-side-up egg for a hearty breakfast.

Pickled Beets

Earthy and tangy beets add a vibrant contrast to the crispy cakes.

Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Ladle warm mushroom gravy over your pancakes for a comforting, savory option.

Want More Potato Ideas?

If these German potato pancakes made your mouth water, you might also enjoy:

• Cajun Potato Soup for a spicy, hearty bowl.
• Oven Fried Potatoes and Onions for an easy and crispy side.
• Honey Butter Skillet Corn if you’re after something sweet and savory.
• Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls as a main dish to pair with your pancakes.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can find it anytime you crave crispy potato goodness.

Let me know how yours turned out in the comments! Did you go the applesauce route or opt for something savory like mushroom sauce?

I love hearing your spins on the classics. Got a question? Drop it below, and let’s talk potatoes.

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