How to Make Japanese Baked Goods with Minimal Ingredients

Japanese baked goods are known for their delicate textures and unique flavors. If you're looking to make some delicious Japanese treats with minimal ingredients, you're in for a treat! This guide will walk you through a few simple recipes that require just a handful of ingredients while still delivering authentic taste.

Anpan (Red Bean Buns)

Anpan is a popular Japanese pastry filled with sweet red bean paste. Here’s how to make a basic version:

Ingredients: All-purpose flour, sugar, yeast, salt, water, and red bean paste.
Instructions:

In a bowl, mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
In another cup, dissolve 1 teaspoon of yeast in warm water (about ½ cup). Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Combine the yeast mixture with the flour mixture. Knead until smooth.
Let the dough rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.
Divide the dough into small portions, flatten each portion, and place a spoonful of red bean paste in the center.
Pinch the dough closed and place seam-side down on a baking sheet.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Matcha Coconut Cookies

If you love green tea, these matcha coconut cookies are perfect for you!

Ingredients: Coconut flakes, all-purpose flour, sugar, matcha powder, and butter.
Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, combine 1 cup of coconut flakes, ½ cup of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of matcha powder.
Add ½ cup of softened butter and mix until you have a dough.
Shape the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly browned.

Shiratama Dango (Sweet Rice Dumplings)

These chewy rice dumplings are a delightful treat. They are simple to make and can be enjoyed with syrup or as part of a dessert bowl.

Ingredients: Shiratamako (sweet rice flour) and water.
Instructions:

Mix 1 cup of shiratamako with enough water to form a smooth, pliable dough.
Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
Boil water in a pot and carefully drop in the dumplings.
Once they float to the surface, let them cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Remove with a slotted spoon and rinse under cold water.

Japanese Castella Cake

This fluffy sponge cake has a light texture and a subtly sweet flavor. It requires only a few ingredients!

Ingredients: Eggs, sugar, all-purpose flour, and honey.
Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
In a bowl, beat 4 eggs with ¾ cup of sugar until pale and fluffy.
Mix in ¼ cup of honey and fold in 1 cup of sifted all-purpose flour.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the cake springs back when touched.

These recipes showcase that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to enjoy delicious Japanese baked goods. With just a few staple items, you can whip up delightful treats that capture the essence of Japanese cuisine right in your kitchen!