I created this recipe as a fuss-free way to enjoy the comforting flavors of Chinese street food snacks right at home. With frozen flaky pancakes, a tasty scallion and Spam filling, and a crispy golden finish from the air fryer, it’s incredibly easy and satisfying to make.
The Evolution of My Scallion Pancake Obsession: From Traditional to Air Fryer Revolution
Scallion pancakes are one of my all-time favorite Chinese flatbreads.
I’ve made and enjoyed so many different versions over the years—Scallion Pancakes, Yeasted Scallion Pancakes, Vegan Scallion Pancakes, and even Oven-Baked Cong You Bing when I wanted a lighter twist.
But this air fryer scallion pancake recipe stands out because it takes a different approach.
Unlike the traditional scallion pancake recipes that require you to knead and roll out dough, this version uses Shou Zhua Bing (Crispy Chinese Pancakes)—a pre-made frozen pancake that’s incredibly flaky and layered.
It’s my go-to shortcut when I want that satisfying crunch without all the prep work. No need to mix flour or let dough rest—just pull the pancakes straight from the freezer and start assembling.
I love making a batch of Shou Zhua Bing ahead of time and freezing them. That way, whenever a craving strikes, I can just grab one, fill it, and air fry. It’s fast, convenient, and still delivers all the crispiness and flavor I want.
If you’re interested in making your own homemade crispy pancakes from scratch, I’ve got you covered! Check out my detailed recipe for Shou Zhua Bing (Crispy Chinese Pancakes) to stock your freezer with the best flaky base for recipes like this one.
Ingredients (2 servings)
Dough Wrapper:
- 2 sheets frozen Chinese-style flaky pancakes (no thawing needed)
Filling:
- 80g Spam, cut into 0.5cm cubes
- 50g scallion greens (from about 4–5 scallions), finely chopped
- 2g ground black pepper (about 1 tsp)
- 20ml cooking oil (corn or canola oil recommended)
Topping:
- 5g white sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients
Cut Spam into 0.5cm small cubes.
Wash scallions and dry thoroughly to avoid excess moisture. Use only the green part and finely chop.
- Mix the filling
In a bowl, combine Spam cubes, chopped scallion greens, and black pepper.
Add cooking oil and mix well using chopsticks, making sure all ingredients are evenly coated.
Note: The oil helps lock in moisture and prevents the filling from releasing water during air frying.
- Assemble the pancake bites
Take out the frozen flaky pancakes. No need to thaw.
Cut each pancake into 4 equal pieces, making a total of 8 squares.
Place about 2 spoonfuls of filling in the center of each square.
Bring all edges together like wrapping a bun and pinch tightly to seal.
Note: You can slightly warm and soften the edges with your hands to make sealing easier and prevent cracking.
Place seam-side down on a clean surface and gently flatten with your palm.
- Air fry
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) for 3 minutes (this step ensures a crispier crust).
Line the air fryer tray with parchment paper. Place the filled dough pieces onto the tray and sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
First Bake: Air fry at 180°C for 15 minutes until puffed and golden spotted.
Flip and Finish: Flip carefully using chopsticks (avoid tearing the wrapper) and air fry for another 5 minutes at 180°C until both sides are golden brown and crispy.
Note: Adjust time based on your air fryer model. Watch closely during the last 2 minutes to prevent burning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I substitute for Spam?
You can use diced ham, Chinese sausage (lap cheong), or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them and freeze (uncooked). Air fry directly from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to the cooking time.
Can I pan-fry them instead of using an air fryer?
Absolutely. Use medium heat with a bit of oil and pan-fry each side until golden brown and crisp.
Crispy Air Fryer Scallion Pancake Bites
Ingredients
Dough Wrapper:
- 2 sheets frozen Chinese-style flaky pancakes no thawing needed
Filling:
- 80 g Spam cut into 0.5cm cubes
- 50 g scallion greens from about 4–5 scallions, finely chopped
- 2 g ground black pepper about 1 tsp
- 20 ml cooking oil corn or canola oil recommended
Topping:
- 5 g white sesame seeds
Instructions
Prepare the ingredients
- Cut Spam into 0.5cm small cubes.
- Wash scallions and dry thoroughly to avoid excess moisture. Use only the green part and finely chop.
Mix the filling
- In a bowl, combine Spam cubes, chopped scallion greens, and black pepper.
- Add cooking oil and mix well using chopsticks, making sure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Note: The oil helps lock in moisture and prevents the filling from releasing water during air frying.
Assemble the pancake bites
- Take out the frozen flaky pancakes. No need to thaw.
- Cut each pancake into 4 equal pieces, making a total of 8 squares.
- Place about 2 spoonfuls of filling in the center of each square.
- Bring all edges together like wrapping a bun and pinch tightly to seal.
- Note: You can slightly warm and soften the edges with your hands to make sealing easier and prevent cracking.
- Place seam-side down on a clean surface and gently flatten with your palm.
Air fry
- Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) for 3 minutes (this step ensures a crispier crust).
- Line the air fryer tray with parchment paper. Place the filled dough pieces onto the tray and sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
- First Bake: Air fry at 180°C for 15 minutes until puffed and golden spotted.
- Flip and Finish: Flip carefully using chopsticks (avoid tearing the wrapper) and air fry for another 5 minutes at 180°C until both sides are golden brown and crispy.
- Note: Adjust time based on your air fryer model. Watch closely during the last 2 minutes to prevent burning.
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