Delicious Japanese Baked Goods You Can Make with Minimal Equipment

Japanese baked goods are known for their unique flavors and textures, and many can be made at home with minimal equipment. If you’re looking to indulge in some delightful treats, here’s a selection of easy-to-make Japanese baked goods that will satisfy your cravings.

Anpan (Red Bean Buns)

Anpan is a delicious sweet bun filled with red bean paste. To make anpan, you’ll need basic ingredients like bread flour, yeast, sugar, and of course, red bean paste (anko). Simply mix the ingredients to form a dough, let it rise, shape it into small balls, and fill them with a spoonful of anko before baking.

Melon Pan (Melon Bread)

Melon Pan is a sweet bread topped with a crispy cookie crust, resembling the shape of a melon. This treat requires a simple bread dough along with a cookie topping made from flour, sugar, and butter. Shape the dough, create the topping, and score it in a crisscross pattern before baking for that signature look.

Castella Cake

This fluffy sponge cake originated from Portugal but has become a beloved dessert in Japan. The ingredients include eggs, sugar, flour, and honey, making it easy to whip together. With just a bowl and a whisk, you can create a light batter, pour it into a loaf pan, and bake until golden brown. The result is a moist, airy treat perfect for tea time.

Daifuku (Rice Cake with Fillings)

Daifuku is a delightful confection made from glutinous rice flour and often filled with sweet red bean paste or ice cream. To make daifuku, you’ll need sweet rice flour, sugar, and a filling of your choice. Mix the flour and sugar with water, steam it, and finally mold it around your desired filling. Dust with cornstarch to prevent sticking, and enjoy!

Japanese Cheesecake

Japanese cheesecake is renowned for its light, fluffy texture, often described as a cross between a traditional cheesecake and a soufflé. With just a few ingredients like cream cheese, eggs, and sugar, you can create this delectable dessert. A mixing bowl and a whisk are all you’ll need to combine the ingredients, pour the mixture into a cake pan, and bake it in a water bath for that perfect fluffiness.

Shio Daifuku (Salty Rice Cakes)

For those who prefer something less sweet, Shio Daifuku offers a wonderful contrast. These rice cakes are made similarly to regular daifuku but are lightly salted, often filled with a savory filling such as grilled meat or pickled vegetables. The preparation is almost the same, providing a delightful balance of flavors.

Matcha Pound Cake

If you love the earthy flavor of matcha, this pound cake will be a hit. With basic ingredients like flour, sugar, eggs, and matcha powder, you can create a moist cake that is both visually appealing and delicious. Mix your ingredients, pour the batter into a loaf pan, and bake to perfection. Serve it with a cup of tea for a heartfelt treat.

Sweet Potato Tart (Daigaku Imo Tart)

Sweet potatoes are a staple in Japanese desserts. For a quick and simple tart, use store-bought sweet pastry dough and fill it with a mixture of mashed sweet potatoes, cream, and sugar. Bake until the crust is golden and the filling is set. This comforting dessert blends the sweet flavors of the potato with a crispy crust.

Making these Japanese baked goods at home doesn't require extensive baking equipment. With basic tools like mixing bowls, a whisk, and an oven, you can enjoy homemade treats that capture the essence of Japanese cuisine. Experiment with these recipes and discover the joy of Japanese baking right in your kitchen!