Taiyaki (Japanese Fish-Shaped Cake)
A beloved Japanese street food, Taiyaki are delightful fish-shaped cakes with a crispy exterior and a sweet filling, traditionally made with anko (red bean paste).
🧂 Ingredients
- 200 g All-purpose flour(Sifted for a smoother batter.)
- 50 g Granulated sugar
- 1 Large eggs(Room temperature is ideal.)
- 200 ml Milk(Whole milk recommended for richness.)
- 1 tsp Baking powder
- 200 g Anko (sweet red bean paste)(Available in Asian markets or online. Can be smooth or chunky.)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil or melted butter(For greasing the taiyaki mold.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, sugar, and baking powder. In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg, then whisk in the milk. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, whisking continuously until a smooth, lump-free batter forms. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Preheat the taiyaki mold: Lightly grease the inside of both halves of your taiyaki mold with vegetable oil or melted butter. Place the mold over medium heat on a stovetop or follow the manufacturer's instructions for electric molds. Allow it to heat up for about 5 minutes until it's hot to the touch.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Fill the mold: Pour about half of the batter into the bottom half of the heated taiyaki mold, ensuring it covers the fish shape. Spoon dollops of anko filling into the batter, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully pour the remaining batter over the anko, filling the mold almost to the brim. Avoid overfilling.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Cook the taiyaki: Close the taiyaki mold firmly. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes per side, or until the taiyaki is a deep golden brown and cooked through. You should hear a gentle sizzle as it cooks. Carefully flip the mold to ensure even browning on both sides. The exterior should be crispy.
⏱️ 10-14 minutes - 5
Remove and serve: Carefully open the mold and gently remove the hot taiyaki. Repeat steps 3 and 4 with the remaining batter and anko until all the taiyaki are cooked. Serve immediately while warm and crispy.
⏱️ 1-2 minutes per piece
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓A special taiyaki mold is essential for creating the iconic fish shape. These are available online or in specialty kitchen stores.
- ✓The exterior should be golden brown and slightly crispy. Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning.
- ✓Taiyaki are best enjoyed fresh and warm, right off the mold.
🔄 Variations
- Custard filling (pastry cream)
- Chocolate ganache filling
- Cream cheese filling
- Savory fillings like cheese and ham
🥗 Nutrition
Per serving