Easy Dorayaki (Japanese Red Bean Pancake)

Name: Easy Dorayaki (Japanese Red Bean Pancake)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 2 eggs; 70 g sugar; 1 ½ tbsp honey; ⅛ tsp salt; 120 g cake flour; ½ tsp baking soda; ½ tsp cooking oil; 3 tbsp water; cooking oil (for frying); 300 g red bean paste

Published: December 11, 2025

by kaeli

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Preparation: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for all skill levels.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of honey-flavored pancakes and sweet red bean paste creates a delightful taste experience.
Versatile Snack: Enjoy them as a dessert, breakfast, or even a lunchbox treat; they fit perfectly into any meal.
Cultural Experience: Making dorayaki allows you to explore Japanese cuisine and its rich traditions right in your home.
Customizable Filling: While red bean paste is traditional, feel free to experiment with other fillings like Nutella or fruit preserves!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having everything ready will make the preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk
Non-stick frying pan
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix the batter without spills, ensuring an even consistency.
Non-stick frying pan: This makes flipping the pancakes easy while preventing them from sticking to the surface.
Spatula: A good spatula helps you flip the pancakes gently without breaking them.

Ingredients

For the Pancake Batter

2 eggs (room temperature)
70 g sugar (white granulated)
1 ½ tbsp honey
⅛ tsp salt (fine sea salt preferred)
120 g cake flour (low-protein, substitute with all-purpose)
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp cooking oil (for batter, flavorless neutral oil like vegetable, canola, rice bran works best)
3 tbsp water (room temperature)
cooking oil (for frying)

For the Filling

300 g red bean paste (anko)

How to Make Easy Dorayaki (Japanese Red Bean Pancake)

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and honey until well combined.
Add in the salt, cake flour, and baking soda. Mix until you have a smooth batter.
Stir in the cooking oil and water, ensuring everything is well incorporated.

Step 2: Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Lightly grease it with some cooking oil.
Pour about two tablespoons of batter into the pan for each pancake.
Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip carefully using a spatula. Cook for an additional minute until golden brown.
Repeat with remaining batter, greasing the pan as necessary.

Step 3: Assemble Your Dorayaki

Place one pancake on a plate and spread a generous layer of red bean paste on top.
Top it with another pancake to create a sandwich effect.
Press gently to secure both pancakes together.

Enjoy your Easy Dorayaki (Japanese Red Bean Pancake) fresh or store them in an airtight container for later!

How to Serve Easy Dorayaki (Japanese Red Bean Pancake)

Easy Dorayaki can be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Whether as a sweet treat for breakfast or a charming dessert, serving them creatively can enhance your experience. Here are some great serving suggestions to enjoy these fluffy pancakes.

With Fresh Fruits

Strawberries – Add sliced strawberries for a refreshing twist.
Bananas – Layer in banana slices for added sweetness and texture.
Blueberries – Toss in fresh blueberries for a burst of flavor.

With Whipped Cream

Classic Topping – Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess.
Flavored Cream – Try flavored whipped cream, like vanilla or matcha, for an interesting twist.

With Ice Cream

Vanilla Ice Cream – Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream between the pancakes for an indulgent dessert.
Matcha Ice Cream – Complement the red bean flavor with creamy matcha ice cream.

As a Snack

On-the-Go Treats – Wrap each dorayaki individually for an easy snack to take anywhere.
Lunch Box Dessert – Include them in lunch boxes for kids as a sweet surprise.

How to Perfect Easy Dorayaki (Japanese Red Bean Pancake)

To make the best Easy Dorayaki, follow these helpful tips. They will ensure your pancakes are fluffy and delicious every time.

Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Start with eggs and water at room temperature to help create a smooth batter.
Mix Gently – Combine the ingredients gently to avoid overmixing, which can make the pancakes tough.
Control Heat Levels – Cook on low to medium heat; too high can burn the pancakes before they cook through.
Rest the Batter – Allow the batter to rest for about 10 minutes before cooking; this helps achieve fluffiness.
Check Cooking Oil Amount – Use just enough oil on the pan; too much can make them greasy, while too little can cause sticking.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Dorayaki (Japanese Red Bean Pancake)

Pairing your Easy Dorayaki with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement their sweetness perfectly.

Green Tea – A warm cup of Japanese green tea balances the sweetness of dorayaki beautifully.
Miso Soup – This savory soup provides a nice contrast to the sweet pancakes; serve it warm alongside.
Edamame – Lightly salted edamame is a nutritious side that adds protein and texture.
Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits enhances freshness without overwhelming flavors.
Sweet Potato Chips – Crunchy sweet potato chips add salty-sweet contrast and fun texture.
Chilled Tofu Salad – Pair dorayaki with chilled tofu drizzled in soy sauce for an umami-rich addition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Dorayaki (Japanese Red Bean Pancake) can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

Wrong Temperature Eggs: Using cold eggs can affect the batter’s texture. Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for the best results.
Neglecting the Batter Rest: Skipping the resting period can make your pancakes less fluffy. Allow the batter to rest for about 10-15 minutes.
Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough pancakes. Stir until just combined for fluffy dorayaki.
Using the Wrong Flour: All-purpose flour can work, but low-protein cake flour gives a lighter pancake. Choose wisely for the best texture.
Inconsistent Heat: Cooking on too high or too low heat can result in burnt edges or undercooked centers. Use medium heat and adjust as necessary.

Refrigerator Storage

Store cooked dorayaki in an airtight container.
They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Dorayaki (Japanese Red Bean Pancake)

Place cooled dorayaki in a single layer between parchment paper in an airtight container.
They can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating Easy Dorayaki (Japanese Red Bean Pancake)

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat dorayaki for about 10 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds, but be careful not to overheat, as they may become chewy.
Stovetop: Warm them on a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Dorayaki (Japanese Red Bean Pancake).

How do I know when my dorayaki is done cooking?

The pancakes should have a light golden color and should spring back when pressed gently.

Can I use other fillings instead of red bean paste?

Yes! You can fill them with whipped cream, chocolate spread, or even fruit preserves for a different twist.

Is it possible to make gluten-free Easy Dorayaki?

Absolutely! Substitute cake flour with a gluten-free blend that works well in baking.

What else can I serve with Easy Dorayaki?

They pair beautifully with matcha tea or sweetened condensed milk drizzled on top.

Final Thoughts

Easy Dorayaki (Japanese Red Bean Pancake) is not only simple to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize the filling based on your preferences, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a sweet snack or a dessert, these pancakes are sure to delight everyone!