Korean Honey Cookies (약과)

Korean Honey Cookies (약과, Yakgwa) are a treasured traditional dessert, known for their deep flavor, tender bite, and rich aroma. Made from a simple dough of wheat flour, sesame oil, and warm spices, these cookies are gently fried and then soaked in a fragrant honey-ginger syrup—creating a texture that is soft, moist, and luxuriously dense.

The flavor is layered and comforting. Sweet honey blends with the nutty depth of sesame oil, while subtle notes of cinnamon and ginger add warmth without overpowering. Each bite is chewy at the center, slightly crisp at the edges, and infused with syrup all the way through, releasing a rich, floral sweetness that lingers.

Yakgwa is not overly sugary—it’s deeply flavored and balanced, meant to be savored slowly. Traditionally enjoyed during holidays, celebrations, and meaningful gatherings, these cookies carry a sense of heritage, care, and intentional craftsmanship.

Visually, 약과 are instantly recognizable by their intricate, flower-shaped pattern and glossy honey sheen. Their golden-brown color and delicate ridges reflect both tradition and beauty, making them as pleasing to look at as they are to eat.

Perfect with tea or as a thoughtful gift, Korean Honey Cookies are more than a dessert—they’re a taste of history and comfort. Rich, fragrant, and deeply satisfying, 약과 offers a timeless sweetness that connects past and present in every bite.

Warm. Chewy. Honey-soaked.
A classic Korean treat, meant to be savored slowly.