Dorayaki: The Iconic Japanese Pancake with Red Bean Fillings
5
servings10
minutes30
minutes190
kcal40
minutesDorayaki is a popular Japanese confection consisting of two fluffy, golden-brown pancakes sandwiched together with a sweet and smooth red bean paste (anko). Known as the favorite treat of Doraemon, Japan’s beloved cartoon cat, this delicacy is easy to make and perfect for tea time, snacks, or even dessert. The pancakes are soft, slightly chewy, and subtly sweet, making them the perfect vessel for the rich and earthy sweetness of the azuki bean paste. Try this recipe and enjoy the comforting sweetness of homemade Dorayaki.
Ingredients
- For the Pancakes:
2 large eggs
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
¾ cup (95g) all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
1 ½ tablespoons water
- For the Filling:
¾ cup (200g) sweet red bean paste (anko)
(Homemade or store-bought)
- For Cooking:
A small amount of vegetable oil (for greasing the pan)
Directions
- Prepare the Pancake Batter
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, honey, and vanilla extract until light and frothy.
- Sift in the flour and baking powder, then gently whisk until smooth.
- Add 1 ½ tablespoons of water and mix until fully combined. The batter should be thick but pourable.
- Cover and let the batter rest for 15 minutes to ensure fluffier pancakes.
- Cook the Pancakes
- Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium-low heat. Lightly grease with a small amount of vegetable oil, then wipe away any excess with a paper towel.
- Using a ladle or small measuring cup, pour about 2 tablespoons (or ¼ cup) of batter into the pan to form small, round pancakes. Cook until bubbles start to form on the surface and the edges look slightly dry (about 2 minutes).
- Flip gently using a spatula and cook for another 30-45 seconds on the other side until golden brown.
- Transfer to a plate and cover with a clean towel to keep the pancakes soft. Repeat with the remaining batter.
- Assemble the Dorayaki
- Take one pancake and spread 1 to 2 tablespoons of sweet red bean paste in the center.
- Place another pancake on top and gently press the edges to seal (like a sandwich).
- Wrap in plastic wrap and let them sit for 5-10 minutes—this allows the filling to slightly moisten the pancakes for an authentic texture.
Notes
- Pair your freshly made dorayaki with a cup of green tea or matcha latte for the perfect Japanese tea-time experience!
