20 Delicious Japanese Dessert Recipes You Must Try

When it comes to desserts, Japan has a reputation for being a masterclass in innovation and creativity. From traditional sweets like mochi and manju to modern twists on classic flavors, Japanese desserts are a true delight for the senses. And with the increasing popularity of Japanese cuisine around the world, there’s never been a better time to try your hand at making these sweet treats at home.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a new dessert to impress your friends and family, Japan has something to offer everyone. From rich and decadent cheesecakes to light and airy sponge cakes, Japanese desserts are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. In this article, we’ll be counting down the top 20 delicious Japanese dessert recipes you must try, from classic favorites to modern twists on traditional sweets. So grab your mixing bowls and get ready to indulge in a world of sweet treats that will leave you wanting more.

Matcha Green Tea Cheesecake

This Matcha Green Tea Cheesecake combines the subtle bitterness of matcha with the richness of creamy cheesecake, resulting in a unique and delightful dessert.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup matcha powder (ceremonial or premium grade)
– 1 cup heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, followed by sugar, vanilla extract, and matcha powder. Mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan over crust.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Dorayaki (Red Bean Pancakes)

Experience the sweet and comforting taste of Japan with this traditional dessert, Dorayaki. Also known as Red Bean Pancakes, these soft and fluffy treats are filled with a sweet azuki bean paste.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3/4 cup azuki bean paste (or red bean paste)
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add in warm water to form a batter.
3. Heat a non-stick pan with a small amount of vegetable oil over medium heat.
4. Pour 1/4 cup of the batter into the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on the surface.
5. Flip the pancake and cook for another minute.
6. Place a spoonful of azuki bean paste in the center of the pancake, then fold the pancake in half to enclose the filling.
7. Repeat with remaining batter and filling.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch (depending on the number of pancakes)

Mochi Ice Cream

Discover the sweet fusion of traditional mochi and creamy ice cream. This unique dessert is perfect for adventurous palates.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup glutinous rice flour (mochiko)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 pint your favorite ice cream flavor (e.g., green tea, mango, or coconut)
– Mochi wrappers (available at Asian grocery stores)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine glutinous rice flour and sugar.
2. Gradually add in the water to form a dough. Knead until smooth and pliable.
3. Divide the dough into small portions, about 1 tablespoon each.
4. Flatten each portion into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Place a scoop of your favorite ice cream in the center of each mochi circle.
6. Fold the mochi over the ice cream to form a ball shape, and press edges together to seal.
7. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 2 hours.

Cooking Time: None! This dessert is ready to be enjoyed straight away.

Taiyaki (Fish-Shaped Pancakes)

This classic Japanese street food is a delightful treat that’s easy to make and fun to eat. Taiyaki, or fish-shaped pancakes, are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, with a sweet red bean filling.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup red bean paste (or sweetened condensed milk)
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually add in sugar and mix until well combined.
3. Add in water and stir until a smooth batter forms.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
5. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the pan to form a fish shape (use a spatula or spoon to guide).
6. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Place red bean paste in the center of the pancake and fold the sides over to enclose.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes per batch

Black Sesame Cookies

These crumbly cookies infused with the nutty flavor of black sesame seeds are a perfect treat for any time of day.

Ingredients:

– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking soda
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup black sesame seeds
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in black sesame seeds.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes

Warabi Mochi (Bracken Starch Dumplings)

Warabi mochi is a traditional Japanese dessert made with bracken starch, sweetened red bean paste, and wrapped in a thin sheet of mochi. These chewy dumplings are a delight to eat during the spring season.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup bracken starch
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup sweetened red bean paste (anko)
– Mochi dough (available at Asian markets or online)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, gradually add the water to the bracken starch, mixing until smooth.
2. Add the sugar and mix until dissolved.
3. Divide the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Flatten each ball slightly into a disk shape.
5. Place a spoonful of anko in the center of each disk.
6. Fold the mochi dough over the filling to form a triangle or square shape, sealing the edges with your fingers.
7. Cook the warabi mochi in boiling water for 10-15 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes

Anmitsu (Agar Jelly Dessert)

A classic Japanese dessert, Anmitsu is a sweet and refreshing treat perfect for warm weather. This simple recipe combines the sweetness of agar jelly with the freshness of fruits and mochi.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons agar powder
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup mixed fruit (such as strawberries, blueberries, and grapes)
– 10-12 pieces of mochi (Japanese rice cakes)
– 1 tablespoon soy milk or water

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the water, agar powder, sugar, and honey. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the agar jelly has thickened.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Cut the mochi into small pieces and soak in cold water for about 30 minutes.
5. Assemble the Anmitsu by placing a piece of soaked mochi at the bottom of a glass or cup, followed by a layer of mixed fruit, and finally a layer of agar jelly.
6. Repeat the layers one more time, ending with a layer of agar jelly on top.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Castella (Japanese Sponge Cake)

Castella, a classic Japanese sponge cake, is known for its moist and fluffy texture. This simple recipe yields a delicious dessert perfect for snacking or serving with tea.

Ingredients:

– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, flour, and salt until smooth.
3. Add milk and baking powder; whisk until fully incorporated.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Yokan (Sweet Red Bean Jelly)

Yokan, a popular Japanese dessert, is a sweet and creamy jelly made with azuki beans, also known as red beans. This recipe yields a delicious and traditional Yokan that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup azuki beans (dried or canned)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 sheet of kombu seaweed (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the azuki beans and soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the soaked beans, then transfer them to a blender or food processor with 2 cups of water.
3. Blend until smooth, then strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl. Discard the solids.
4. In a saucepan, combine the bean puree, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and reaches 180°F (82°C).
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. If using kombu seaweed, add it to the mixture and stir well.
6. Pour the Yokan into a clean glass jar or container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: Approximately 30 minutes

Daifuku (Stuffed Mochi)

A traditional Japanese sweet treat, Daifuku is a glutinous rice cake filled with sweet fillings such as red bean paste or fruit. This recipe makes 6-8 pieces.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups glutinous rice flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Filling of your choice (red bean paste, fruit, etc.)
– Confectioner’s sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour and salt.
2. Gradually add in the water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Flatten each ball slightly to form a disk shape.
6. Place your chosen filling in the center of each disk.
7. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or square shape, pressing edges together to seal.
8. Dust with confectioner’s sugar and serve.

Cooking Time: None needed! Daifuku is typically served as a snack or dessert at room temperature.

Melon Pan (Sweet Bread)

This Japanese-inspired sweet bread is a popular treat that combines the fluffiness of cotton candy with the warmth of freshly baked bread.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg
– Food coloring (optional)

Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add flour, sugar, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough and shape into desired form. If desired, add food coloring to tint the bread.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Kuzumochi (Kudzu Starch Mochi)

In this traditional Japanese recipe, kudzu starch is used to create a unique and delicious mochi dessert. With its subtle nutty flavor and chewy texture, Kuzumochi is a must-try for any mochi enthusiast.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup kudzu starch
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup azuki bean paste (or sweetened red bean paste)
– Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting

Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, gradually add the kudzu starch to the water while stirring with a wooden spoon.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and forms a sticky dough (about 10 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in sugar and salt.
4. Divide the dough into small pieces and flatten each piece slightly.
5. Place a tablespoon of azuki bean paste in the center of each piece.
6. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle, pressing edges together to seal.
7. Dust with confectioner’s sugar before serving.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Purin (Japanese Custard Pudding)

A classic Japanese dessert, Purin is a creamy and smooth custard pudding that’s easy to make and always a crowd pleaser.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm milk mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
4. Return the saucepan to the heat and cook for 5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
5. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream and vanilla extract. Pour into individual cups or a large baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is still slightly jiggly.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Shiratama Dango (Sweet Rice Dumplings)

A traditional Japanese dessert, Shiratama Dango is a sweet and chewy treat made with glutinous rice flour. These bite-sized dumplings are often served at special occasions or as a snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup glutinous rice flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– Food coloring (optional)
– Confectioner’s sugar (for dusting)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour and sugar.
2. Gradually add in the water while kneading the mixture until it forms a sticky dough.
3. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each one into a ball.
5. Flatten each ball slightly to form a disk shape.
6. Cook the dumplings in boiling water for 10-15 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
7. Remove from water and dust with confectioner’s sugar.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Matcha Swiss Roll

A modern twist on the classic Swiss roll, this Matcha version combines the bright green tea flavor with a soft and airy sponge cake.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup (60ml) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon matcha powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Unsalted butter, softened

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat egg whites until frothy. Gradually add granulated sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Add matcha powder to the egg mixture and mix until well combined.
5. Fold the flour mixture into the egg mixture until just combined.
6. Spread the batter onto the prepared baking sheet and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and springs back when touched.
8. Allow the cake to cool completely before rolling it up with softened butter and serving.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Zenzai (Sweet Red Bean Soup with Mochi)

Warm up with this comforting and sweet Japanese dessert soup, perfect for any time of the year!

Ingredients:

– 1 cup red azuki beans
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 piece of kombu seaweed (optional)
– 6-8 pieces of mochi (glutinous rice cakes)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the red azuki beans and soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the beans, then combine with 4 cups of fresh water, sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the beans are soft.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Cut the mochi into small pieces and add them to the bean mixture.
6. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours (including soaking time)

Kabocha Pudding (Pumpkin Pudding)

Warm up with a rich and creamy Kabocha pumpkin pudding that’s perfect for the fall season. This Japanese-inspired dessert is made with roasted kabocha squash, sweetened condensed milk, and spices.

Ingredients:

– 1 small kabocha squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt to taste
– 2 large eggs

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the kabocha squash in half and roast for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. Scoop out the flesh and puree in a blender with sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs until frothy. Temper the egg mixture by slowly pouring the warm pudding into the eggs, whisking constantly.
5. Pour the pudding into individual serving cups or a large baking dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 45 minutes (roasting squash) + 2 hours (chilling pudding)

Kakigori (Shaved Ice Dessert)

Experience the sweet delight of Kakigori, a traditional Japanese dessert that’s perfect for hot summer days. This shaved ice treat is flavored with various syrups and topped with sweetened condensed milk, creating a delightful combination of textures and tastes.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups ice
– 1/4 cup water
– Flavorings:
+ Green tea syrup (or other flavors of your choice)
– Sweetened condensed milk
– Ice shaver or blender

Instructions:

1. Shave the ice into fine flakes using an ice shaver or a blender.
2. Mix 1/4 cup of water with green tea syrup (or desired flavor) to create a syrupy consistency.
3. Pour the flavored syrup over the shaved ice, stirring until well combined.
4. Top with sweetened condensed milk and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: None! This dessert is ready in just a few minutes.

Hanabiramochi (Flower Petal Mochi)

A traditional Japanese sweet treat that resembles delicate flower petals, Hanabiramochi is a delightful dessert to enjoy during special occasions or as a snack. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these beautiful mochi at home.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups glutinous rice flour
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Food coloring (pink or white)
– Mochi mixture (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine glutinous rice flour and sugar.
2. Gradually add in water while mixing until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a small marble.
5. Flatten each ball into a thin circle using your fingers or a rolling pin.
6. Add a few drops of food coloring to tint the mochi pink or white, if desired.
7. Shape each circle into a flower petal shape by folding and curling the edges.
8. Serve Hanabiramochi fresh, or store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Cooking Time: None (preparation only)

Kuri Kinton (Candied Chestnut Sweet)

Sweeten your taste buds with this traditional Japanese dessert, made by candying chestnuts and coating them in a sweet syrup.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup fresh or canned chestnuts
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. Peel the chestnuts and slice them into thin pieces.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the syrup thickens slightly.
4. Add the chestnut slices to the syrup and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until they are coated in the sweet syrup.
5. Remove from heat and stir in honey (if using). Let cool completely before serving.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Summary

Discover the sweet side of Japan with these 20 mouthwatering dessert recipes. From classic treats like matcha green tea cheesecake and dorayaki (red bean pancakes) to unique delights like mochi ice cream and taiyaki (fish-shaped pancakes), there’s something for every palate. Also featured are traditional sweets like warabi mochi, anmitsu, and yokan, as well as modern twists on old favorites. Whether you’re a fan of green tea, red bean, or just looking to try something new, this collection has it all.