Hwajeon
Flower Pancakes
Hwajeon are delicate, pan-fried glutinous rice flour pancakes adorned with edible flowers, typically enjoyed during spring in Korea. They are slightly sweet and chewy, offering a beautiful and seasonal treat.

๐ง Ingredients
- 200 g Sweet rice flour (glutinous rice flour)
- 100-120 ml Water
- 12-16 Edible flowers (e.g., azaleas, chrysanthemums, rose petals)
- 1-2 tbsp (for dough, optional) Sugar
- for drizzling Honey or sugar syrup
- for frying Vegetable oil
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
Gently wash and pat dry the edible flowers. Remove any stems or pistils if necessary.
๐ก Tip: Ensure the flowers are food-grade and have not been treated with pesticides. - 2
In a bowl, combine the sweet rice flour with sugar (if using). Gradually add water, mixing until a soft, pliable dough forms. The amount of water may vary depending on the flour's absorbency.
๐ก Tip: The dough should be soft enough to shape but not sticky. - 3
Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it into a small, thin disc (about 3-4 inches in diameter).
๐ก Tip: Work with one portion of dough at a time, keeping the others covered to prevent drying. - 4
Carefully press one or two edible flowers onto the surface of each flattened dough disc, ensuring they adhere well.
๐ก Tip: The natural stickiness of the dough will help the flowers stick. - 5
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of vegetable oil.
๐ก Tip: Low to medium heat is important to cook the pancakes through without burning the flowers. - 6
Place the shaped hwajeon, flower-side down, onto the hot skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the bottom is lightly golden.
๐ก Tip: Be gentle when placing them in the pan to avoid dislodging the flowers. - 7
Flip the hwajeon and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes, or until cooked through and slightly golden. The pancake should be slightly chewy.
๐ก Tip: The flowers will become slightly translucent and fragrant as they cook. - 8
Remove the hwajeon from the skillet and arrange them on a serving plate. Drizzle generously with honey or sugar syrup before serving.
๐ก Tip: Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โEnsure you use certified edible flowers. Common choices include azaleas, pansies, violets, and rose petals.
- โIf sweet rice flour is unavailable, you can substitute with regular rice flour, but the texture will be less chewy.
- โThe pancakes can be made ahead and gently reheated in a pan.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for a warm spice note.
- For a savory version, omit the sugar and add a pinch of salt to the dough, serving with a soy-based dipping sauce.