Dorayaki Japanese Pancakes Quick and Easy 🥞✨ Filled with Soft Custard
Japan is known for its culinary artistry, and dorayaki, the iconic Japanese pancakes, are a testament to this. Soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet, dorayaki are traditionally filled with red bean paste. However, this recipe elevates the classic treat with a luscious custard cream filling. Perfect for a quick dessert or a delightful snack, these pancakes are easy to make and bursting with flavor.
The Allure of Dorayaki
Dorayaki holds a special place in Japanese culture and cuisine. The word "dorayaki" derives from dora, meaning "gong," as its round, golden appearance resembles a gong. Beloved by children and adults alike, this treat is a common sight in Japanese bakeries and snack shops. When paired with a creamy custard filling, the result is an indulgent fusion of textures and flavors that never fails to impress.
Why This Recipe is Perfect
Quick and Easy: This recipe simplifies the process, making it accessible even for beginners.
Soft and Fluffy Pancakes: The batter, enriched with honey and vanilla, creates pancakes with a cloud-like texture.
Velvety Custard Filling: The custard cream is rich yet light, perfectly complementing the delicate pancakes.
Versatility: Enjoy these as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast—there’s never a wrong time for dorayaki!
The Ingredients
For the Pancakes:
Eggs (2): Room temperature eggs ensure a smoother batter and better rise.
Sugar (60g): Provides sweetness and enhances the pancakes' golden color.
Honey (20g): Adds a subtle floral sweetness and helps retain moisture.
Cake Flour (100g): Its fine texture results in tender pancakes.
Baking Powder (1g): Creates a light, fluffy texture.
Milk (30g): Room temperature milk integrates seamlessly into the batter.
Vanilla Extract (1g): Adds a delightful aroma and depth of flavor.
For the Custard Cream Filling:
Egg Yolks (2): The rich base for the custard.
Sugar (35g): Sweetens and balances the custard.
Cake Flour (15g): Thickens the cream without making it too dense.
Milk (200ml): The base liquid, lending creaminess to the filling.
Vanilla Extract (1g): Complements the custard's smoothness with a hint of warmth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pancake Batter:
Whisk together 2 eggs, 60g sugar, and 20g honey in a bowl until combined.
Sift 100g cake flour and 1g baking powder into the mixture.
Add 30g milk and 1g vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
Cover the batter and refrigerate it for 30 minutes.
2. Make the Custard Cream Filling:
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 egg yolks and 35g sugar until pale and smooth.
Gradually mix in 15g sifted cake flour and 1g vanilla extract.
Warm 200ml milk in a saucepan over medium heat until bubbles form around the edges.
Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture in three portions, whisking continuously to temper the eggs.
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens.
Transfer the custard to a wide bowl and cover its surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Cool quickly, then refrigerate.
3. Cook the Pancakes:
Heat a nonstick pan over low heat and lightly grease it with a thin layer of oil.
Spoon small portions of the pancake batter onto the pan, forming circles approximately 8–10 cm in diameter.
Cook until bubbles appear on the surface, then flip and cook the other side until golden brown.
Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Assemble the Dorayaki:
Once the pancakes are cool, pipe or spoon the custard cream onto one side of a pancake.
Top with another pancake to form a sandwich.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately or refrigerate for a chilled treat. Pair with a cup of green tea for an authentic Japanese experience.
What Makes Dorayaki Special
A Taste of Japan: With its roots in Japanese culinary tradition, dorayaki offers a glimpse into the rich food culture of the country.
Custard Twist: This variation with custard cream instead of red bean paste introduces a new layer of indulgence.
Homemade Touch: Unlike store-bought dorayaki, this recipe allows for customization, ensuring each bite is made with care and precision.
Tips for Perfect Dorayaki
Consistency is Key: Ensure the batter is smooth and lump-free for even cooking.
Pan Temperature: Use low to medium heat to avoid burning the pancakes while achieving a golden color.
Custard Texture: Stir continuously while cooking the custard to prevent clumps and achieve a silky finish.
Uniform Size: Use a measuring spoon or ice cream scoop to portion the batter for evenly sized pancakes.
Variations to Explore
Matcha Pancakes: Add a teaspoon of matcha powder to the pancake batter for a vibrant green hue and earthy flavor.
Chocolate Custard: Replace the vanilla extract in the custard with cocoa powder for a decadent chocolate filling.
Fruit Fillings: Pair the custard with fresh strawberries, bananas, or blueberries for a fruity twist.
Whipped Cream: For a lighter alternative, fill the pancakes with sweetened whipped cream.
The Joy of Sharing Dorayaki
One of the greatest pleasures of making dorayaki is sharing it with friends and family. Watching loved ones enjoy these delicate, creamy treats is deeply satisfying. Whether served as an afternoon snack or a sweet dessert, dorayaki brings smiles to everyone’s faces.
A Japanese Classic with a Twist
Dorayaki with custard cream filling is a delightful departure from the traditional red bean paste version. The soft, fluffy pancakes paired with velvety custard create a combination that is irresistible and memorable.
With just a few basic ingredients and a little patience, you can create a dessert that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also pays homage to the artistry of Japanese cuisine.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Quick and Easy: Despite its elegance, this recipe is simple enough for beginners.
Customizable: From fillings to flavors, you can make it your own.
Impressive Presentation: Perfect for serving guests or as a thoughtful homemade gift.
Dorayaki pancakes filled with soft custard are a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the journey of making these heavenly treats. Whether it’s your first bite or your fiftieth, these dorayaki are sure to delight. 🥞✨
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