Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with comforting potato flavor — German Potato Pancakes, or Kartoffelpuffer, are a beloved dish across Germany. Traditionally served at markets and festivals, these golden potato pancakes are simple, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. Whether you enjoy them sweet with applesauce or savory with sour cream and chives, they’re a timeless favorite that brings old-world flavor to your kitchen.
🥔 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Made with simple pantry ingredients
Crispy and flavorful — perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner
Can be served sweet or savory
Authentic German comfort food that’s easy to make at home
🍳 Ingredients
6 medium russet potatoes, peeled
1 small onion, grated
2 large eggs
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Oil for frying (vegetable or sunflower oil works best)
Optional toppings:
Applesauce (for a traditional sweet version)
Sour cream or crème fraîche (for a savory option)
Fresh herbs such as chives or parsley
🧂 Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel and grate the potatoes using the large holes of a box grater.
- Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible — this is the secret to crisp pancakes.
- Mix the Batter
- In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, grated onion, eggs, flour, salt, and pepper.
- Stir until all ingredients are evenly mixed. The mixture should be slightly sticky but not watery.
- Heat the Oil
- Pour about ¼ inch of oil into a large skillet and heat over medium-high heat.
- The oil is ready when a small drop of batter sizzles immediately.
- Fry the Pancakes
- Scoop about ¼ cup of potato mixture for each pancake and flatten it gently in the skillet with a spatula.
- Fry 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp.
- Transfer the cooked pancakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more oil if needed.
- Serve Warm
Enjoy immediately for the best texture.
Serve with your favorite topping — applesauce for a sweet version, or sour cream for a savory one.
🧈 Tips for Perfect Kartoffelpuffer
Always drain the potatoes well to avoid soggy pancakes.
Use high-starch potatoes (like russets or Yukon Golds) for crispier results.
Keep cooked pancakes warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven while frying the rest.
You can also add a pinch of nutmeg or garlic powder for extra flavor.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Traditional German style: With applesauce on the side
Savory version: With smoked salmon, sour cream, and dill
Breakfast idea: Top with a fried egg and crispy bacon
Side dish: Serve alongside roasted meats or sausages
🕰️ Storage & Reheating
