German Potato Pancakes

Crispy, golden, and irresistibly savory, German Potato Pancakes (or "Kartoffelpuffer") are a classic comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with freshly grated russet potatoes and onions, these pancakes achieve the ultimate crunch thanks to a simple technique of squeezing out excess moisture before frying. A touch of nutmeg adds a delightful hint of warmth, while the pairing of creamy sour cream and sweet apple sauce creates a balanced harmony of flavors. Ready in just 40 minutes, this traditional German recipe is easy to prepare and perfect as a snack, side dish, or even a satisfying vegetarian main. Whether you're recreating Oktoberfest flavors at home or simply craving something deliciously crispy, these potato pancakes are sure to be a hit.

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 medium Russet potatoes
• 1 medium Yellow onion
• 2 large Eggs
• 3 tablespoons All-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon Nutmeg (optional)
• 0.5 cup Vegetable oil (or lard)
• 1 cup Apple sauce (for serving)
• 1 cup Sour cream (for serving)

Directions

Step 1

Peel the potatoes and grate them using a coarse grater. Transfer the grated potatoes to a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This helps achieve crispy pancakes.

Step 2

Grate the onion using the same coarse grater. Combine the grated onion with the grated, drained potatoes in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3

Crack the eggs into the potato-onion mixture and mix well to combine.

Step 4

Sprinkle the mixture with flour, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture holds together when pressed lightly.

Step 5

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.

Step 6

Scoop about 1/4 cup of the potato mixture into the hot skillet for each pancake. Flatten the mound gently with the back of a spoon to create thin patties, about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 7

Fry the pancakes in batches, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden-brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as necessary to avoid burning.

Step 8

Transfer the cooked pancakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Keep the pancakes warm in a low oven while frying additional batches.

Step 9

Serve the German potato pancakes immediately, with apple sauce and/or sour cream on the side for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1534.9 grams (1534.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2545

Total Fat 168.90g	217%
Saturated Fat 44.30g	222%
Polyunsaturated Fat NaNg
Cholesterol 492mg	164%
Sodium 2687mg	117%
Total Carbohydrate 216.90g	79%
Dietary Fiber 17.50g	63%
Total Sugars 44.30g
Protein 44.60g	89%

Vitamin D 82IU	410%
Calcium 524mg	40%
Iron 12mg	66%
Potassium 4716mg	100%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 59.2%

Protein: 7.0%

Carbs: 33.8%