Dorayaki
Dorayaki is a beloved Japanese dessert made of two soft, fluffy pancake-like cakes sandwiched together with a sweet red bean paste filling (anko). With origins dating back to the early 20th century, this treat has become a favorite across Japan, loved for its simplicity and satisfying combination of textures and flavors.
Famously associated with the anime character Doraemon, who adores dorayaki, this dessert holds cultural significance and is a popular choice for all ages. Found in convenience stores, specialty shops, and homes, dorayaki is perfect as a snack or paired with tea for a delightful dessert that offers a little taste of Japan in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Pancakes:
For the Filling:
Optional: matcha cream, chocolate spread, or custard for variation
Instructions
Prepare the Batter:
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In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and honey until well combined and slightly frothy.
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Sift the flour and baking powder into the egg mixture, and gently mix until smooth. If the batter is too thick, add 2-3 tablespoons of water to achieve a pancake-like consistency.
Cook the Pancakes:
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Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat and lightly grease it with vegetable oil.
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Make sure your skillet is properly heated before cooking the pancakes. Medium-low heat is ideal to ensure even cooking and to prevent over-browning.
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Pour small circles of batter (about 2-3 tablespoons each) onto the skillet to form pancakes. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges are set, about 2 minutes.
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Flip the pancakes and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter. You should have about 16-20 small pancakes.
Assemble the Dorayaki:
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Once the pancakes have cooled slightly, take one pancake and spread a generous tablespoon of sweet red bean paste (anko) on the flat side.
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Place another pancake on top, sandwiching the filling between the two pancakes. Gently press them together.
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Repeat with the remaining pancakes and filling.
Serve:
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Serve fresh, with a cup of green tea, or as a delightful snack
Maricel's Tips
- If you want to make the pancakes extra fluffy, let the batter rest for about 15 minutes before cooking. This gives the baking powder time to activate, resulting in lighter, airier pancakes that make the perfect dorayaki!
- You can also experiment with different fillings like matcha cream, chocolate spread, or custard for a fun twist.
- For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a small pinch of salt to the red bean paste filling. It helps balance the sweetness and enhances the overall taste of the dorayaki, making each bite even more satisfying