The moment I took my first bite of these crispy burger-style latkes with baharat-spiced apple butter, I knew I had found a new favorite dish. There’s something irresistibly satisfying about that golden crunch, layered with the rich, buttery potato center, harmoniously paired with both the sweet and spicy notes of the apple butter. This recipe plays with tradition, giving the classic latke a modern makeover, perfect for those cozy family dinners or to dazzle guests at your next gathering.
Whether you’re seeking a nut-free, gluten-free option or a deliciously vegan creation that doesn’t compromise on taste, these latkes can effortlessly fit into any dietary preference. When life feels overwhelming, it’s these comforting, flavorful bites that bring joy back to my kitchen. Let’s roll up our sleeves and explore how to whip up this delightful dish that’s sure to impress!
Why are burger-style latkes a must-try?
Delicious Twist: These burger-style latkes give a playful twist to the classic dish, marrying tradition with innovation to capture anyone’s taste buds.
Super Crunchy & Comforting: Enjoy a delightful crunch contrasted by tender, buttery potatoes that comfort while satisfying.
Flavor Explosion: The unique blend of baharat-spiced apple butter and creamy garlic soured cream elevates your dining experience and introduces unexpected flavors.
Diet-Friendly Adaptations: Easy swaps allow these latkes to fit any dietary need—nut-free, gluten-free, vegetarian, or even vegan!
Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these latkes are sure to impress and spark joy for everyone at the table.
Burger-Style Latkes Ingredients
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For the Apple Butter:
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Cooking Apples – Provides tangy sweetness; substitutes: Tart apples like Granny Smith.
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Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds acidity and balance; no substitutions necessary.
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Baharat Spice Mix – Infuses warm, complex flavors; substitute: Pumpkin pie spice for a different taste.
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Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and depth; substitute: Coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
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Date Syrup – Contributes richness; substitute: Maple syrup for a similar taste.
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Salt – Enhances flavor; use: Sea salt or kosher salt for best results.
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For the Latkes:
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Desirée Potatoes – Core ingredient for texture and flavor; substitute: Russet potatoes if necessary.
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Onions – Adds sweetness and depth; substitute: Shallots for a milder onion flavor.
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Ground White Pepper – Provides warmth without the heat; substitute: Black pepper for a similar effect.
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Eggs – Binds the mixture; substitute: Flax eggs to make them vegan.
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Fine Matzo Meal – Helps with binding and texture; substitute: Gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
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Vegetable Oil – Used for frying; substitute: Olive oil for a healthier option.
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For the Soured Cream:
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Soured Cream – Creamy topping that complements the latkes; substitute: Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
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Garlic – Adds aromatic flavor; use: Fresh garlic for the best taste.
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For the Slaw:
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Toasted Sesame Seeds – Adds crunch and flavor; no substitutions necessary.
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Olive Oil – Base for slaw dressing; no substitutions necessary.
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Sesame Oil – Enhances flavor; no substitutions necessary.
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Lime Juice – Brightens flavors; adjust for acidity as preferred.
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Dijon Mustard – Adds tanginess to the dressing; no substitutions necessary.
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Maple Syrup – Sweetens the dressing; substitute: Honey for non-vegans.
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Salt – Enhances all flavors; adjust to taste.
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Pickled Cucumbers – Provides a crunchy, tangy element; substitute: Other crunchy fruits as desired.
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Green Apple – Adds crispness and sweetness; substitute: Other crunchy fruits for variation.
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White Cabbage – Base for slaw; no substitutions necessary.
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Red Onion – Adds color and mild flavor; no substitutions necessary.
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Fresh Coriander – Bright herbiness; substitute: Parsley for a different flavor.
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Pickled Jalapeños – Adds heat; substitute: Fresh jalapeños for less tang or flavor.
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For Serving:
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Brioche Burger Buns – Serves as the base for the latkes; substitute: Whole grain or gluten-free buns to accommodate various diets.
How to Make Burger-Style Latkes
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Make the Apple Butter: In a saucepan, combine cooking apples, apple cider vinegar, baharat spice mix, brown sugar, date syrup, and salt. Simmer over medium heat for about 25 minutes until sticky, then blend until smooth and set aside.
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Prepare the Latkes: Grate Desirée potatoes and squeeze out excess moisture using a colander. In a bowl, mix the grated potatoes, half of the chopped onions, white pepper, salt, eggs, and matzo meal to form a mixture. Shape into 6 patties.
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Fry the Latkes: Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry latke patties for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
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Make the Soured Cream: In a small bowl, mix minced garlic into soured cream with a pinch of salt and set aside.
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Prepare the Slaw: Whisk together dressing ingredients, then add pickled cucumbers, green apple, cabbage, red onion, fresh coriander, and pickled jalapeños. Toss to combine.
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Serve: Assemble the dish by spreading garlic soured cream on brioche buns, adding latkes, topping with remaining onions, and drizzling with baharat-spiced apple butter. Serve with cucumber slaw on the side.
Optional: Garnish with fresh coriander for an extra flavor boost.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Burger-Style Latkes
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Proper Potato Prep: Make sure to squeeze out the excess moisture from the grated potatoes thoroughly. This step is crucial to achieve that perfect crispy texture in burger-style latkes.
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Batch Frying: If cooking in batches, keep the fried latkes warm in a low oven (around 200°F) while you finish frying the rest. This avoids sogginess and maintains their delightful crunch.
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Flavor Boost: Experiment with your spice mix! While baharat adds warmth, you can also try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for an extra layer of flavor in your latkes.
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Binding Agent: If you’re aiming for a vegan version of these burger-style latkes, be sure to use flax eggs as a binding agent. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken.
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Healthier Frying Options: Consider using a combination of olive oil and vegetable oil for frying; it offers a healthier option without compromising the crispy finish you’re looking for.
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Chill the Mixture: For best results, refrigerate the latke mixture for about 30 minutes before frying. This helps the flavors meld and improves the binding, giving you those deliciously crispy burger-style latkes.
Burger-Style Latkes Variations
Feel free to mix it up and make these burger-style latkes your own with some delightful twists!
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Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs (mix 1 tbsp ground flaxseed with 2.5 tbsp water) for a plant-based version that holds together beautifully.
A light, earthy flavor will still shine through, making your latkes equally delicious without the eggs! -
Sweet Potato Swap: Use sweet potatoes instead of Desirée potatoes for added natural sweetness and a lovely hint of color.
These latkes will transport your taste buds to a cozy fall day, sweet yet savory, perfect for any occasion. -
Cauliflower Latkes: Substitute half the potatoes with grated cauliflower for a lower-carb, veggie-packed option that’s still wonderfully crispy.
This twist brings added nutritional benefits while keeping the comforting flavor you crave. -
Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded cheddar or feta into your latke mixture for a rich and creamy undertone that’s hard to resist.
Each bite will burst with cheesy goodness, elevating your latkes to new heights of flavor. -
Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped jalapeños to the latke mixture for a touch of heat that marries beautifully with the sweetness of the apple butter.
For those who love a little zest, this fiery addition makes each bite even more exciting! -
Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh herbs like dill or chives for a burst of fresh flavor that brightens up your latkes.
This herbaceous twist adds a delightful aroma and depth, making your kitchen smell heavenly. -
Crispy Panko Coating: For an extra crunch, coat your latkes in panko breadcrumbs before frying to achieve a perfect golden-brown crust.
This variation not only enhances the texture but makes every bite achieve ultimate crispiness! -
Mushroom Fusion: Blend finely chopped mushrooms into your latke mixture for an earthy flavor and added moisture.
This subtle twist will impress any mushroom lover and infuse each latke with an extra layer of savory deliciousness.
Make Ahead Options
These crispy burger-style latkes with baharat-spiced apple butter are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the latke mixture up to 24 hours in advance by grating the Desirée potatoes and mixing them with the onions, eggs, white pepper, salt, and matzo meal. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The apple butter can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. On the day of serving, simply fry the latkes in hot oil until golden brown and crispy, then assemble with the garlic soured cream and toppings. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious homemade latkes without the last-minute rush!
What to Serve with Burger-Style Latkes?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing these delightful latkes with complementary dishes that harmonize their flavors.
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Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and buttery, they create a comforting contrast to the crispy latkes while enhancing the savory taste.
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Crisp Cucumber Slaw: This refreshing side brightens the meal, introducing crunch and acidity that balance the richness of the latkes.
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Zesty Tomato Salad: Juicy tomatoes with a splash of vinegar provide a burst of freshness that pairs beautifully with the hearty latkes and rich apple butter.
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Roasted Beet Salad: Earthy beets with creamy feta bring a vibrant color and flavor contrast that elevates your plate aesthetically and tastefully.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots complement the savory profile of the latkes and add a pop of color.
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Craft Beer: A light, crisp lager or ale enhances the culinary experience, marrying the flavors of the latkes with refreshing carbonation.
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Fresh Lemonade: Serve a chilled glass to cut through the richness of the dish, offering a bright and uplifting taste that refreshes the palate.
Let your taste buds embark on a journey with these harmonious pairings, making each bite memorable!
How to Store and Freeze Burger-Style Latkes
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Fridge: Store leftover burger-style latkes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while retaining their delicious flavor.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the latkes in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: To restore the crispiness, reheat the latkes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
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Make-Ahead: You can prepare the latke mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. The baharat-spiced apple butter can also be made ahead, storing it for up to 3 days.
Burger-Style Latkes Recipe FAQs
What kind of apples should I use for the apple butter?
I recommend using cooking apples like Granny Smith for their tangy sweetness. If you can’t find them, tart apples will do the trick as well. Just avoid overly sweet varieties, as they won’t provide the same flavor balance in your apple butter.
How should I store leftover burger-style latkes?
Store leftover latkes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re looking to save them for longer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just remember to reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to bring back their delightful crunch!
Can I freeze the latke mixture?
Absolutely! You can prepare the latke mixture and chill it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. If you need to store it longer, feel free to freeze it in portions. Just let it thaw completely in the fridge before frying.
What can I substitute for matzo meal to make these latkes gluten-free?
For a gluten-free option, you can swap fine matzo meal with gluten-free breadcrumbs. This will help maintain the binding and textural quality of the latkes while making them accessible for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I make these latkes vegan?
Yes! To make your burger-style latkes vegan, simply use flax eggs as a binding agent. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, letting it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens, and then stir it into your latke mixture as you would with regular eggs.
What if my latke mixture is too wet?
If you find that your mixture is too wet, it’s essential to squeeze out any extra moisture from the grated potatoes thoroughly. You can also add a bit more matzo meal or gluten-free breadcrumbs to help absorb excess liquid and improve the binding of your latkes.
Delicious Burger-Style Latkes with Apple Butter & Garlic Cream
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Make the Apple Butter: In a saucepan, combine cooking apples, apple cider vinegar, baharat spice mix, brown sugar, date syrup, and salt. Simmer over medium heat for about 25 minutes until sticky, then blend until smooth and set aside.
- Prepare the Latkes: Grate Desirée potatoes and squeeze out excess moisture using a colander. In a bowl, mix the grated potatoes, half of the chopped onions, white pepper, salt, eggs, and matzo meal to form a mixture. Shape into 6 patties.
- Fry the Latkes: Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry latke patties for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Make the Soured Cream: In a small bowl, mix minced garlic into soured cream with a pinch of salt and set aside.
- Prepare the Slaw: Whisk together dressing ingredients, then add pickled cucumbers, green apple, cabbage, red onion, fresh coriander, and pickled jalapeños. Toss to combine.
- Serve: Assemble the dish by spreading garlic soured cream on brioche buns, adding latkes, topping with remaining onions, and drizzling with baharat-spiced apple butter. Serve with cucumber slaw on the side.