Japanese cuisine is renowned for its delicate balance of flavors, vibrant presentation, and rich cultural heritage. But did you know that Japan has a sweet tooth just like anyone else? From traditional treats to modern twists, Japanese desserts offer a world of flavors and textures waiting to be explored. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 20 mouth-watering Japanese dessert recipes that will satisfy your cravings and inspire you to get baking.
From classic matcha cheesecakes to innovative mochi ice cream sandwiches, these sweet treats showcase the artistry and attention to detail that defines Japanese cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious novice, we’ll guide you through the preparation of each dessert, sharing tips and tricks to help you achieve perfection.
So, sit back, relax, and let’s indulge in this world of sweet delights!
Matcha Green Tea Cheesecake
Experience the unique flavor combination of matcha green tea and creamy cheesecake in this refreshing dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup matcha green tea powder ( ceremonial or premium grade)
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients until well combined. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and beat until combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and matcha powder.
5. Gradually add sour cream and heavy cream, beating until well combined.
6. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan over crust.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
8. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes
Dorayaki (Red Bean Pancakes)
A classic Japanese dessert, Dorayaki is a sweet and tender pancake filled with a creamy red bean paste. This recipe makes 6-8 pancakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup red bean paste (available at Asian markets or online)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, milk, and egg until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface.
6. Flip the pancake and cook for another minute, until golden brown.
7. Repeat with remaining batter.
8. Sandwich a dollop of red bean paste between two pancakes to assemble.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including frying time)
Enjoy your delicious Dorayaki!
Mochi Ice Cream
Mochi ice cream is a unique Japanese dessert that combines creamy ice cream with chewy rice flour mochi wrappers. This recipe creates a delicious and refreshing treat perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint of your favorite ice cream flavor
– 2 cups of glutinous rice flour (mochiko)
– 1/2 cup of water
– 1 tablespoon of sugar
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together mochiko and sugar.
2. Gradually add in the water to form a dough. Knead until smooth and pliable.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
4. Flatten each ball slightly into a disk shape.
5. Place a scoop of ice cream in the center of each disk.
6. Fold the mochi wrapper over the ice cream to form a square or rectangle shape.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 10 minutes
– Total time: 15 minutes
Taiyaki (Fish-Shaped Cake)
Taiyaki, a popular Japanese street food, is a sweet and crispy fish-shaped cake filled with red bean paste or ice cream. This recipe makes 6-8 pieces of Taiyaki.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Red bean paste or ice cream for filling
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add in water to form a dough. Knead the dough until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin sheet.
5. Use a fish-shaped mold or a cookie cutter to cut out the cake shape.
6. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
7. Fry the Taiyaki for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
8. Drain excess oil and fill with red bean paste or ice cream.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including frying time)
Enjoy your delicious and crispy Taiyaki!
Black Sesame Cookies
Satisfy your cravings with these crumbly, nutty cookies infused with the rich flavor of black sesame seeds. Perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
6. Stir in black sesame seeds.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Japanese Strawberry Shortcake
Experience the sweet fusion of Japanese flavors with this unique shortcake recipe, featuring fresh strawberries and whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 6-8 Japanese-style shortcake biscuits (see note)
– Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. Add granulated sugar and vanilla extract; continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. Slice the strawberries into thin pieces.
4. Split the shortcake biscuits in half horizontally.
5. Spoon whipped cream over the bottom half of each biscuit.
6. Arrange sliced strawberries on top of the whipped cream.
7. Place the top half of the biscuit on each serving.
8. Dust with confectioner’s sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (whipping time included)
Note: Japanese-style shortcake biscuits can be found at Asian markets or online. If unavailable, use regular shortcake biscuits as a substitute.
Anmitsu (Agar Jelly Dessert)
A classic Japanese dessert made with agar jelly, fruit, and sweetened condensed milk, Anmitsu is a refreshing treat perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup agar jelly powder
– 4 cups water
– 1 can sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup mixed fruit (such as strawberries, blueberries, and pineapple)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine agar jelly powder and 4 cups of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Stir in sweetened condensed milk, sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into small cups or glasses.
6. Refrigerate until set, at least 30 minutes.
7. Top with mixed fruit before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Castella (Japanese Sponge Cake)
A traditional Japanese sponge cake, Castella is a light and airy dessert made with eggs, sugar, and flour. This recipe yields a moist and fluffy cake perfect for snacking or serving as a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) square baking pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, and salt until pale yellow and doubled in volume.
3. Sift flour over the egg mixture and gently fold until just combined.
4. Add milk and whisk until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven, let cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Warabi Mochi (Bracken Starch Mochi)
Warabi mochi is a traditional Japanese dessert made with bracken starch, glutinous rice flour, and sweet fillings. This simple recipe brings together the comforting flavors of Japan in a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups bracken starch (kuzu)
– 1 cup glutinous rice flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– Filling ingredients (e.g., red bean paste, ice cream)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together bracken starch and glutinous rice flour.
2. Gradually add in the water while stirring until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes until smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a small egg.
5. Flatten each ball slightly to form a disk shape.
6. Place your chosen filling in the center of each disk.
7. Fold the edges over the filling to form a triangle or square shape.
8. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is ready to enjoy straight away.
Yokan (Red Bean Jelly)
A traditional Japanese dessert, Yokan is a sweet and refreshing treat made with azuki beans and agar powder. This simple recipe yields a smooth and creamy jelly perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried azuki beans
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons agar powder
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the azuki beans and soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the beans, then combine with 2 cups of fresh water in a medium saucepan.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the beans are soft and mushy.
4. Strain the bean mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
5. In a small saucepan, combine the extracted liquid, sugar, and agar powder. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and forms a jelly-like consistency.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to individual serving cups or a large dish.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Melon Pan (Sweet Bread)
A classic Japanese sweet bread, Melon Pan is a delightful treat that combines the softness of milk bread with a crispy cookie-like topping. This recipe yields 6-8 pieces of sweet bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– Cookie topping (see below)
Cookie Topping:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, sugar, and salt to the mixture. Mix until smooth.
4. Beat in melted butter and egg.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Meanwhile, prepare cookie topping by mixing together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
8. Remove bread from oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle cookie topping evenly over the top of the bread.
9. Return to oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until cookie topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Daifuku (Stuffed Mochi)
A traditional Japanese dessert, Daifuku is a glutinous rice flour dumpling filled with sweet bean paste or fruit. This recipe guides you through the process of making these delicious treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups glutinous rice flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup sweet bean paste (anko) or fruit filling
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour and water. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a small egg.
4. Flatten each ball into a disk shape.
5. Place a spoonful of sweet bean paste or fruit filling in the center of each disk.
6. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or square shape, and press the edges together to seal.
7. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
8. Fry the Daifuku for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown.
Cooking Time: About 10-15 minutes
Kuzumochi (Kudzu Starch Mochi)
Discover the unique flavor and texture of Kuzumochi, a traditional Japanese mochi dessert made with kudzu starch. This simple recipe yields soft, chewy, and slightly sweet treats perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups kudzu starch
– 1 cup glutinous rice flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine kudzu starch and glutinous rice flour.
2. Gradually add sugar to the mixture and mix until well combined.
3. Add water and mix until a dough forms. If too sticky, add more kudzu starch; if too dry, add a little water.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
5. Divide the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
6. Shape each ball into a desired shape (e.g., spheres, rectangles, or squares).
7. Serve Kuzumochi as is or with your preferred topping (e.g., soy sauce, matcha green tea powder, or fruit).
Cooking Time: None; served at room temperature.
Japanese Purin (Caramel Custard Pudding)
This classic Japanese dessert is a creamy, sweet, and indulgent treat that’s sure to please. With its velvety smooth caramel custard pudding, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and melted butter. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm milk mixture into the eggs, whisking continuously.
5. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small cups.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Sakura Mochi (Cherry Blossom Mochi)
Celebrate the beauty of Japan’s cherry blossom season with this delicate and flavorful mochi dessert, filled with sweet red bean paste.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups glutinous rice flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup sweetened red bean paste (anko)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour and water to form a dough.
2. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and pliable.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
4. Flatten each ball slightly into a disk shape.
5. Place a spoonful of sweetened red bean paste in the center of each mochi.
6. Fold the mochi over the filling to form a triangle or square shape.
7. Serve dusted with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time:
– 30 minutes to prepare the dough
– 10-15 minutes to assemble and fill the mochi
Zenzai (Sweet Red Bean Soup with Mochi)
Warm up with a comforting and sweet Japanese treat, Zenzai! This traditional red bean soup is served with soft mochi balls, perfect for a cozy evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup azuki beans (red bean paste)
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup glutinous rice flour
– 1/2 cup water
– Mochi balls (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the azuki beans and soak them in water overnight. Drain and blend with 2 cups of water until smooth.
2. In a pot, combine the blended bean mixture, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the mochi balls according to package instructions (if using store-bought) or make your own by mixing glutinous rice flour with water to form a dough. Knead until smooth and shape into small balls.
4. To serve, ladle the warm red bean soup into bowls and place 2-3 mochi balls on top.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (excluding soaking time)
Matcha Swiss Roll
This Japanese-inspired sweet treat combines the vibrant green tea flavor of matcha with the classic Swiss roll, resulting in a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons matcha powder
– 1 cup whipped cream
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, beating until smooth.
5. Stir in matcha powder.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cake is golden brown.
8. Allow cake to cool completely before filling with whipped cream.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Kintsuba (Sweet Red Bean Cake)
A traditional Korean dessert, Kintsuba is a moist and sweet cake made with azuki beans, perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup azuki beans, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar and eggs until pale and fluffy.
3. Add mashed azuki beans, oil, baking powder, and salt. Whisk until well combined.
4. Gradually add flour and mix until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Japanese Coffee Jelly
A refreshing twist on traditional jelly, this Japanese Coffee Jelly is a unique dessert perfect for hot summer days. With its smooth coffee flavor and soft texture, it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the coffee, sugar, and softened gelatin. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted.
5. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish or mold and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight until set.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Kuromitsu (Black Sugar Syrup) Dango
Enjoy the sweet and savory combination of traditional Japanese dango with this simple recipe for Kuromitsu, a black sugar syrup.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons black sugar (kuromitsu)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 package of dango mix (available at Asian markets or online)
Instructions:
1. Combine the water, granulated sugar, and black sugar in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the syrup has thickened slightly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in salt.
4. Cook the dango mix according to package instructions.
5. Serve warm dango with the Kuromitsu syrup.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the sweet side of Japan with these 20 mouthwatering dessert recipes. From classic treats like matcha cheesecake and dorayaki pancakes to unique delights like mochi ice cream and taiyaki fish-shaped cake, there’s something for every taste bud. Indulge in a variety of textures and flavors, from soft and fluffy castella sponge cake to crunchy black sesame cookies. Whether you’re a seasoned Japanophile or just looking to try something new, this collection of desserts is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
