Print

Crispy Taiyaki Fish-Shaped Cakes Recipe Easy Homemade Sweet Red Bean Filling

crispy taiyaki fish-shaped cakes - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy Japanese Taiyaki fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste, perfect for a cozy snack or dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg (room temperature)
  • 3/4 cup (180 ml) milk (whole or 2%, dairy-free milk works too)
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil, plus extra for greasing the pan
  • 1/2 cup (150 g) sweet red bean paste (anko), smooth or chunky

Instructions

  1. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and granulated sugar until smooth and lump-free.
  2. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, milk, and vegetable oil until fully blended.
  3. Create the batter: Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix, stirring gently until just combined. The batter should be thick but pourable.
  4. Preheat the Taiyaki pan: Place the pan over medium heat, lightly greasing both sides with vegetable oil. Heat for 3-4 minutes until hot but not smoking.
  5. Fill the pan: Pour about 2 tablespoons of batter into one side of the fish mold, spread slightly. Add about 1 tablespoon of sweet red bean paste in the center, then cover with another 2 tablespoons of batter.
  6. Cook the cakes: Close the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on one side. Flip carefully and cook for another 3-4 minutes until both sides are golden brown and crispy.
  7. Check for doneness: Ensure the Taiyaki is crisp on the outside with no wet batter spots. Adjust heat if browning too fast.
  8. Remove and cool: Transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Use medium heat to avoid burning the batter. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook one or two cakes at a time for even crispiness. Adjust batter thickness with milk or flour as needed. Center the red bean paste and avoid overfilling to prevent oozing. Cool on a wire rack to keep crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Taiyaki, fish-shaped cakes, sweet red bean paste, Japanese dessert, crispy cakes, homemade Taiyaki, easy dessert