Doraemon Dorayaki – Japanese Red Bean Pancake

A big Doraemon pancake with red bean paste

Dorayaki – Japanese Red Bean Pancake, the iconic treat beloved by the famous Doraemon, has become a cultural phenomenon. As a manga and anime fan, trying authentic Dorayaki was at the top of my must-eat list during my Japan visit.

Dorayaki recipe

Dorayaki is a delicious Japanese confection that consists of two fluffy, honey-sweet pancakes filled with a sweet red bean paste called “anko.” It’s quite similar to the taste of Imagawayaki and fish-shaped cake Taiyaki.

3 Dorayaki-anime-pancake with a cup of milk

The pancake with red bean paste has become a popular and beloved treat in Japanese cuisine. The name “dorayaki” is believed to have originated from the Japanese word “dora,” meaning gong, as the shape of the cake is said to resemble a gong used in traditional Japanese music.

Today, this Japanese stuffed pancake is not only enjoyed in Japan but has also gained popularity in various parts of the world. Here’s how to make the traditional dorayaki:

A big Doraemon pancake with red bean paste

Gluten-free Dorayaki

A beloved Japanese confection featuring two fluffy honey-sweetened pancakes sandwiched around a rich red bean (azuki) paste filling.
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine Asian, Japanese
Servings 8
Calories 170 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 cup flour I used gluten-free one
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 – 1.5 cup Sweet red bean paste store-bought or homemade

Instructions
 

  • In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and honey until well combined.
  • In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder.
  • Gradually add the flour mixture to the egg mixture, stirring to combine.
  • Add the water and vanilla extract, and continue to mix until you have a smooth batter.
  • Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. You can use a regular frying pan for this.
  • Spoon a small amount of batter onto the pan to form a pancake, about 3 inches in diameter.
  • Cook until bubbles form on the surface of the pancake, then flip and cook the other side until golden brown. Repeat until all the batter is used, placing the cooked pancakes on a plate to cool.
  • Once the pancakes are cool, spread a layer of sweet red bean paste on one pancake and sandwich it with another. Continue until all the pancakes are sandwiched together with the red bean paste.

Notes

For Sweet red bean paste, you can buy it online or make it from red beans. To make it, you can learn how to make anko from the Ichigo Daifuku – Strawberry Mochi recipe here.
Keyword darayaki, gluten-free recipe, homemade pancake, Japanese pancake, pancake recipe

How to pair Japanese Red Bean Pancake

1. Beverages

  • Japanese Green Tea: Its slight bitterness pairs well with the sweetness of the pancakes.
  • Matcha Latte: This drink brings rich green tea flavors that enhance the pancakes.
  • Coffee or Milk Tea: These comforting drinks are perfect for enjoying with afternoon snacks.

2. Accompaniments

  • Fresh fruits: add a refreshing contrast to the pancakes.
    • Strawberries
    • Orange segments
    • Seasonal fruits
  • Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or green tea ice cream can make your dessert even better.
  • Light Cookies:
    • Matcha cookies
    • Rice crackers
    • Butter cookies
  • Whipped Cream: This adds a sweet and creamy texture when served on top or alongside the pancakes.

Variations

1. Filling Options

  • Custard Cream: This sweet custard filling provides a rich, creamy texture.
  • Chestnut Paste (Kuri): Made with chestnuts, it adds a delightful nutty flavor.
  • Matcha Cream: Incorporating green tea powder, this filling gives a unique taste and beautiful color.
  • Ice Cream: Dorayaki can be filled with ice cream, making it a delicious dessert for warm days.
  • Fruit Fillings: Options like strawberries or bananas often come mixed with cream for a fresh twist.
  • Chocolate or Nutella: A modern choice that satisfies chocolate lovers.
  • Cheese: Add a savory touch to the sweet pancakes.
  • Nutella and Banana: A modern favorite is the combination of Nutella and banana slices, blending rich chocolatey flavor with sweetness.
  • Oreo

    2. Regional Variations

    Different regions in Japan offer unique takes on Dorayaki:

    1. Tokyo Style
      • Emphasis on honey flavor
      • Balanced sweetness
      • Traditional proportions
    2. Kansai Style
      • Slightly thinner pancakes
      • More filling
      • Additional mochi layer
    3. Kanto Style
      • Thicker pancake
      • More substantial fillings

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