The King's Affection Yakgwa (약과)
Why this food?
Yakgwa are deep-fried honey wheat cookies shaped like blooming flowers—the Joseon royal court's signature confection for honoring important guests. In The King's Affection, these delicate treats represent elegance and royal favor. Today, they're experiencing a massive revival in modern Korean dessert culture, beloved for their crispy exterior and sweet honey glaze.
🇰🇷 K-Culture Tip
Yakgwa dates back to the Goryeo dynasty and became a staple of royal banquets during Joseon times. The flower shape symbolized beauty and grace, making them ideal gifts for nobility. Modern Korean bakeries have elevated yakgwa into trendy Instagram-worthy treats, proving that medieval royal snacks never go out of style.
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Substitute Ingredients
All available at Walmart
| Original | Substitute |
|---|---|
All-purpose wheat flour 밀가루 | Great Value All-Purpose Flour Great Value Standard bleached flour works perfectly for crispy yakgwa Shop at Walmart |
Pure honey 꿀 | Great Value Pure Honey Great Value Raw or processed honey both work; use for both dough and final glaze Shop at Walmart |
Vegetable oil 식용유 | Great Value Vegetable Oil Great Value Neutral oil essential for high-heat frying without burning Shop at Walmart |
🛒 Can't find it at Walmart? Try a Korean grocery store
Your Shopping List
Walmart edition
- 1 cup Great Value All-Purpose Flour
- 3 tablespoons total (2 for dough, 1 for glaze) Great Value Pure Honey
- 2 cups (1 tablespoon for dough, 2 cups for frying) Great Value Vegetable Oil
Instructions
- 1
Step 1: Mix 1 cup all-purpose flour with 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, and a pinch of salt until a stiff dough forms. Knead for 2-3 minutes until smooth.
- 2
Step 2: Roll dough between two sheets of parchment paper to ¼-inch thickness. Use a flower-shaped cookie cutter (or knife to cut flower shapes freehand) and place on parchment.
- 3
Step 3: Heat 2 cups vegetable oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven to 350°F. Working in batches, carefully slide cookies into hot oil using a spatula.
- 4
Step 4: Fry for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- 5
Step 5: While still warm, brush generously with honey or dip into honey glaze. Cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
