How to Create Crispy Baked Potato Latkes – A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
Potato latkes are delicious, golden-brown fried pancakes traditionally made with shredded potatoes, onions, eggs, and some seasonings. They’re often associated with Hanukkah but can be enjoyed all year round! While frying is the usual way to make latkes, baking them is a healthier alternative that still delivers incredible flavor and crunch. In this post, we’re going to show you how to make crispy baked potato latkes in a simple, easy-to-follow way.
What Makes Latkes Special?
Latkes are loved for their crispy exterior and soft interior. They’re cozy comfort food that pairs wonderfully with applesauce or sour cream. Baking them instead of frying is a great option if you want a lighter meal or avoid a greasy mess in the kitchen.
Let’s get started with the recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a list of simple ingredients you’ll need to make baked potato latkes:
– 2 large russet potatoes (or about 3 medium-sized potatoes)
– 1 medium onion
– 2 large eggs
– 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or potato starch for a gluten-free option)
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
– 2–3 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil (for brushing the latkes and the pan)
That’s it! These ingredients are likely already in your kitchen, making the recipe affordable and beginner-friendly.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Baked Potato Latkes
Let’s break it down so you can craft the perfect latkes right in your own oven.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easy. Brush a thin layer of oil onto the paper or mat—this ensures the latkes get crispy while baking.
Step 2: Prep Your Potatoes and Onion
Peel the potatoes and onion. Next, shred the potatoes and onion using a box grater or a food processor with a grating attachment. Once shredded, place the mixture into a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is critical for achieving crispy latkes, as too much moisture will make them soggy.
Tip: Work quickly to prevent the potatoes from turning brown. If they do, don’t worry—it won’t affect the flavor!
Step 3: Mix Your Latke Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded potatoes and onions. Add the eggs, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Stir everything together until the mixture is evenly coated. Your batter should stick together but not be too wet.
Step 4: Shape the Latkes
Take about 2–3 tablespoons of the mixture and form it into small patties with your hands. Press them gently to flatten, but don’t make them too thin—they should be about ¼ inch thick. Place the patties onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one.
Step 5: Brush with Oil
To ensure the latkes crisp up nicely, lightly brush the tops of each latke with oil. You don’t need a lot of oil—just enough to promote browning. This will give them a lovely golden crust.
Step 6: Bake, Flip, and Bake Again
Place the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the bottoms are golden brown. Carefully flip each latke with a spatula, then bake for another 15–20 minutes on the other side.
Keep an eye on them during the second baking stage; some ovens may cook faster than others. When both sides are crispy and the latkes are golden all over, they’re ready to come out of the oven!
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the latkes to cool for a minute or two, then transfer them to a serving plate. Serve them warm with applesauce, sour cream, or your favorite dipping sauce. The combination of crispy potato edges and creamy toppings is pure magic!
Tips for Perfect Baked Latkes
- Don’t Skip the Squeezing: Removing excess water from the potatoes and onions is key to crispy latkes. Don’t rush this step!
- Use High-Starch Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the best choice for latkes because they are starchy and create a crisp texture.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: You can get creative by adding grated zucchini, carrots, or sweet potatoes for extra flavor.
- Reheat for Crunch: If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5–10 minutes to restore their crispness.
Why Bake Instead of Fry?
Baking latkes gives you healthier results without sacrificing flavor. While fried latkes are undeniably tasty, they require more oil and can feel heavy. Baked latkes use less oil and bake evenly in the oven, producing a lighter but still satisfying snack or side dish.
Conclusion
Now you know how to make crispy baked potato latkes! This simple recipe is perfect for beginners, and you don’t need any fancy equipment to get started. Baking latkes is a healthier twist on the classic dish, and it’s a great way to enjoy all the flavor without the grease.
Try this recipe at home and wow your family or friends with your cooking skills. Don’t forget to experiment with toppings and extra ingredients to make the latkes your own. Happy cooking!
