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Kartoffelpuffer – Traditional German Potato Pancakes

A beloved dish found throughout Germany under various regional names, Kartoffelpuffer are crispy, golden potato pancakes made from raw grated potatoes. Simple yet full of flavor, they are traditionally enjoyed sweet or savory depending on the occasion.
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Course: Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine: GERMAN
Keyword: german potato pancakes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 large eggs lightly whisked
  • Approximately ¼ cup of plain white flour add extra if needed to reach the correct consistency
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • Neutral-flavored oil sufficient for shallow frying
  • 1 small yellow onion peeled and finely shredded
  • About 2½ pounds of raw starchy potatoes (peeled and finely grated)

Instructions

  • Extract as much moisture as possible from the grated potatoes by either squeezing them firmly in a colander using your hands or placing them in a clean kitchen towel and wringing thoroughly. This step is crucial for achieving crisp results.
  • Transfer the drained potatoes to a mixing bowl and add the finely grated onion, beaten eggs, flour, and salt. Mix the contents thoroughly by hand until a cohesive, slightly sticky mixture forms. If the texture is too loose, incorporate a small amount of additional flour. Proceed to cook without delay, as the mixture should not sit for long.
  • Warm a few tablespoons of neutral oil in a non-stick skillet set over medium-high heat. Scoop about ⅓ to ½ cup of the potato mixture into the pan for each pancake, flattening them gently with the back of a spoon to form round patties.
  • Cook the pancakes for approximately 3 to 5 minutes on each side, or until they achieve a deep golden color and crisp exterior. After frying, transfer them briefly onto paper towels to absorb excess oil.
  • Serve the Kartoffelpuffer hot and fresh. For a sweet presentation, accompany with applesauce, fruit preserves, or a dusting of powdered sugar. For a savory option, pair with herbed yogurt, quark, crème fraîche, or alongside meat and gravy as part of a hearty meal.
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