Dorayaki (Red Bean Filled Pancakes)
Dorayaki is Doraemon’s favourite Japanese treat: two small, fluffy, golden pancakes, slightly domed like a gong ("dora"), sandwiched around a generous layer of sweet red bean paste (anko). Honey in the batter keeps them tender and gives their characteristic aroma. A soft, comforting snack that’s not too sweet.
Original recipe : RecipeTin Japan + Just One Cookbook
Ingredients
- 2 eggs
- 70 g sugar
- 1.5 tbsp honey
- 120 g flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1–2 tbsp water
- 250–300 g red bean paste (anko)
- A little oil for the pan
Method
- 1Whisk the eggs with the sugar and honey until pale.
- 2Fold in the sifted flour and baking soda, mix without overworking, then rest the batter 15–30 minutes in the fridge (it softens the crumb).
- 3Loosen the batter with 1–2 tbsp water to a coating consistency.
- 4Heat a non-stick pan over low heat, oil it lightly then wipe off the excess.
- 5Pour small ladles of batter into discs about 8 cm. Cook until bubbles appear on the surface (1–2 minutes), then flip and cook 1 more minute.
- 6Let cool under a damp cloth to keep them soft.
- 7Spread a layer of anko on one pancake, thicker in the centre, and close with a second pancake, gently pressing the edges.
Tips & tricks
- Resting the batter and the honey are key to a soft, fragrant crumb.
- Cook over low heat for an even, golden colour without burning.
- Keeping the pancakes under a damp cloth stops them drying out.
Variations
- Fill with white bean paste (shiroan), chestnut cream, or add a strawberry (ichigo dorayaki).
Storage
Up to 2 days at room temperature, wrapped, or freeze.
Ingredient substitutions
- Eggs : apple sauce (50 g per egg) or 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water.
- Sugar : maple syrup, honey or coconut sugar.
- Wheat flour : a gluten-free flour blend (rice + buckwheat) or ground almonds.
What to serve it with
- A coffee or fragrant tea
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Homemade custard
- Some fresh seasonal fruit
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to make "Dorayaki (Red Bean Filled Pancakes)"?
Allow about 15 min of prep and 15 min of cooking, i.e. 30 min in total for 4 servings.
Is this recipe easy to make?
Its difficulty is "Medium". Following the steps in order and our tips, it stays accessible.
Can I make "Dorayaki (Red Bean Filled Pancakes)" ahead and store it?
Up to 2 days at room temperature, wrapped, or freeze.
How many servings does this recipe make?
The quantities are for 4 servings. To adjust, simply multiply or divide the ingredients by the number of guests.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, "Dorayaki (Red Bean Filled Pancakes)" is vegetarian: it contains no meat or fish.
