German Potato Pancakes Recipe (Crispy, Golden & Easy to Make)

Make delicious German potato pancakes, also known as Kartoffelpuffer, with this easy homemade recipe! These traditional German-style potato cakes are crispy and golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and made with simple ingredients like shredded potatoes, onion, eggs, and flour.

Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting side dish, German potato pancakes are wonderfully versatile. Serve them with applesauce for a sweet-and-savory combination, sour cream for a creamy contrast, or bratwurst and other hearty favorites for a traditional German-inspired meal.

The secret to making the best crispy potato pancakes is removing excess moisture from the shredded potatoes and frying them in hot oil until the edges turn beautifully golden. With just 20 minutes of preparation and 25 minutes of cooking, you can enjoy this classic comfort food at home.

What Are German Potato Pancakes?

German potato pancakes, or Kartoffelpuffer, are savory pancakes made from grated raw potatoes mixed with eggs, flour, onion, and seasonings. The mixture is shaped into small, flat cakes and pan-fried until crisp and golden.

They're a popular traditional food in Germany and are enjoyed at home, at seasonal markets, and during festive occasions. Depending on the region and family tradition, they're served with sweet toppings like applesauce or savory accompaniments such as sour cream and smoked salmon.

German potato pancakes are similar to other potato fritters, but their appeal lies in their simple ingredients, crispy edges, and soft potato centers. They're an excellent way to turn everyday potatoes into a satisfying dish that everyone can enjoy.

Why You'll Love This German Potato Pancake Recipe

• Crispy, golden edges: Properly drained potatoes and hot oil help create a delicious crunch.

• Simple pantry ingredients: You only need potatoes, eggs, flour, onion, seasonings, and oil.

• Easy to prepare: The ingredients come together quickly, making this recipe suitable for busy mornings and relaxed weekend brunches.

• Sweet or savory: Pair the pancakes with applesauce, sour cream, smoked salmon, or your favorite toppings.

• Great for sharing: This recipe makes six servings, making it ideal for family breakfasts and gatherings.

• Freezer-friendly: Cooked pancakes can be frozen and reheated for a convenient snack or side dish.

German Potato Pancakes Recipe

Guiseppe

Servings

6

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time

25 minutes

Calories

283

Cuisine

German

Category

Side Dish, Breakfast, Brunch

German potato pancakes, kartoffelpuffer, crispy potato pancakes, authentic German recipe, easy potato pancakes, traditional German food, brunch recipes, fried potato cakes, Oktoberfest recipes, savory breakfast ideas

Ingredients

• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or potato starch for gluten-free)
• ¼ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and shredded
• ½ cup finely chopped onion
• ¼ cup vegetable oil (plus more as needed for frying)

Directions

1. Peel and shred the potatoes using a box grater or food processor. Finely chop the onion.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Add the shredded potatoes and onion, stirring until well combined.
3. Pour about ¼ cup of vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat over medium heat until shimmering.
4. Drop heaping tablespoonfuls of the potato mixture into the hot oil. Flatten each slightly with a spatula for even cooking.
5. Cook for about 3 minutes per side, or until the edges are golden brown. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
6. Transfer pancakes to a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil. Loosely cover with foil to keep warm while you finish the rest.
7. Enjoy immediately while crisp, paired with sour cream, applesauce, or your favorite savory topping.