Dorayaki: Japan’s Beloved Sweet Pancake Treat
- torinaga11
- Mar 27
- 3 min read
Dorayaki (どら焼き) is one of Japan’s most popular traditional sweets, featuring two fluffy castella-style pancakes filled with sweet red bean paste (anko). This delicious confection is loved by people of all ages and has a long history in Japanese culture. Whether you’re a fan of Japanese desserts or looking to try something new, dorayaki is a must-try treat!
In this blog post, we’ll explore the history, ingredients, variations, and where to find the best dorayaki in Japan.
The History of Dorayaki
Dorayaki dates back to the Edo period (1603–1868), but its modern form was created in 1914 by the Tokyo-based confectionery Usagiya. The name “dorayaki” comes from the word "dora" (銅鑼), meaning "gong," because the pancake shape resembles a traditional Japanese gong.
According to legend, a samurai named Benkei once left his gong (dora) at a farmer’s house, and the farmer later used it to cook pancakes—leading to the creation of dorayaki!
How Dorayaki is Made
Dorayaki consists of two honey-infused pancakes and a sweet filling, traditionally made from anko (red bean paste).
Key Ingredients
Flour – Gives the pancakes a light, fluffy texture.
Eggs – Add richness and structure.
Sugar & Hone – Provide sweetness and a soft, golden-brown finish.
Baking Powder – Helps create a fluffy texture.
Anko (Red Bean Paste) – The traditional filling, made from sweetened azuki beans.
Popular Variations of Dorayaki
While classic dorayaki is filled with anko, modern versions include:
Matcha Dorayaki – Pancakes flavored with green tea powder.
Custard Dorayaki – Filled with creamy vanilla custard.
Chocolate Dorayaki – A favorite among chocolate lovers.
Whipped Cream Dorayaki – Light and airy, often combined with fruits.
Chestnut Dorayaki – Featuring sweetened chestnuts inside the filling.
There are also ice cream-filled dorayaki, perfect for summer treats!
Where to Buy the Best Dorayaki in Japan
If you’re visiting Japan, you’ll find dorayaki at convenience stores, bakeries, and specialty sweet shops. Here are some of the best places to try it:
1. Usagiya (Tokyo)
Famous for its handmade dorayaki, Usagiya has been serving this treat since 1914. Their pancakes are known for their soft, moist texture.
2. Kameju (Asakusa, Tokyo)
Located near Senso-ji Temple, Kameju offers extra-thick dorayaki with premium red bean paste.
3. Famous Convenience Stores
7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson all sell affordable dorayaki, perfect for a quick snack.
Dorayaki in Japanese Pop Culture
Dorayaki is famously associated with Doraemon, the beloved Japanese anime character. This robotic cat loves dorayaki, making the treat even more popular among fans.
How to Make Dorayaki at Home
Want to try making dorayaki yourself? Here’s a simple recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 eggs
- 50g sugar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 100g flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tbsp water
- 200g anko (red bean paste)
Instructions:
1. Whisk eggs, sugar, and honey until well combined.
2. Sift flour and baking powder into the mixture and stir.
3. Add water to create a smooth batter.
4. Heat a pan, lightly oil it, and cook small pancakes until golden brown.
5. Assemble by placing anko between two pancakes.
6. Enjoy!
Dorayaki is a classic Japanese dessert that combines fluffy pancakes with a sweet, satisfying filling. Whether you enjoy the traditional anko version or try a modern variation, dorayaki is a treat that brings joy with every bite.
Have you ever tried dorayaki? Let us know your favorite flavor in the comments!
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