Delicious Taiyaki Recipe: Perfect Japanese Fish Dessert at Home

Published: November 13, 2025

by Grace Bennett

Why You'll Love This Taiyaki (Japanese Fish Dessert)

This incredible Taiyaki (Japanese Fish Dessert) transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

Ingredients for Taiyaki (Japanese Fish Dessert)

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Taiyaki (Japanese Fish Dessert):

1¼ cups cake flour: Select a finely milled cake flour to ensure a light and fluffy texture in your Taiyaki.
1 tsp baking powder: This helps the batter rise, creating that perfect, airy bite.
1 tsp baking soda: Another leavening agent that contributes to the fluffy texture.
3 Tbsp sugar: Sweetens the batter just right, complementing the filling beautifully.
1 large egg (50 g each w/o shell): Binds the ingredients and adds richness to the batter.
¾ cup whole milk (¾ cup + 4 tsp): Keeps the batter moist and adds flavor.
8 Tbsp sweet red bean paste (anko): A traditional filling that brings a delightful sweetness; be bold and try other fillings if you’re feeling adventurous!
1 Tbsp neutral oil (for greasing the grill): Essential for preventing sticking, ensuring your Taiyaki comes out perfectly shaped.

How to Make Taiyaki (Japanese Fish Dessert)

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Taiyaki (Japanese Fish Dessert):

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
Begin by sifting 1¼ cups of cake flour, 1 tsp of baking powder, and 1 tsp of baking soda into a large mixing bowl. This step is crucial as it ensures your Taiyaki batter will be light and airy.

Step 2: Mix in the Sugar
Add 3 Tbsp of sugar to the bowl and whisk the dry ingredients together well, blending them until they are thoroughly combined. You want every bite of this sweet treat to be uniformly delightful, after all!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 large egg and then pour in ¾ cup of whole milk. Make sure to blend well. The moist mixture will soon come together with the dry ingredients to create your batter.

Step 4: Create Your Batter
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and whisk until combined. Once everything is nicely blended, cover the batter and pop it in the fridge for at least an hour. This resting period is key; patience makes the batter even better!

Step 5: Heat the Taiyaki Maker
Preheat your taiyaki maker over medium-low heat and grease the pan lightly with some of the 1 Tbsp of neutral oil. This will ensure that your fish-shaped creations won’t stick and will come out looking perfect.

Step 6: Pour and Fill the Molds
Pour the batter into a measuring cup or jug, so you can easily control the pour. Fill each taiyaki mold about 60% full, then gently drop in about 1 Tbsp of sweet red bean paste right in the center of each mold. Sprinkle just a touch more batter on top to seal the filling inside!

Now, close the lid on the taiyaki maker and immediately flip it over. Cook the taiyaki for about 2 to 2½ minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 2 to 2½ minutes on the other side. Check to see if they’re golden brown. Once they are, carefully remove them from the pan and let them cool on a wire rack.

As you work through the remaining batter, keep your anticipation alive for that first bite of fresh, warm Taiyaki. Trust me; they’re best served warm! However, if they do get cold, feel free to toast them in a toaster oven or oven until they become crispy again.

Bon appétit, or in the case of this Japanese dish, itadakimasu! You now have delicious Taiyaki (Japanese Fish Dessert) ready to impress your friends and family. Enjoy every mouthful and the joy that comes with creating this delightful treat at home!

This showstopping Taiyaki (Japanese Fish Dessert) delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home. The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest. Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Taiyaki (Japanese Fish Dessert) Cooking Process

Start by whisking and blending your dry ingredients, then prepare the wet mixture while letting the batter rest. Heat your taiyaki maker, quickly fill with batter, and add your filling for a perfectly cooked dessert.

Add Your Touch to Taiyaki (Japanese Fish Dessert)

Feel free to switch up the filling with custard, chocolate, or even fresh fruit to keep things exciting. You can also experiment with different toppings like whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a sweet twist.

Storing & Reheating Taiyaki (Japanese Fish Dessert)

Store leftover taiyaki in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them into a toaster oven for a crisp exterior and warm filling without sacrificing quality.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Taiyaki (Japanese Fish Dessert)

This professional-quality Taiyaki (Japanese Fish Dessert) relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sometimes, when serving taiyaki at a gathering, I notice that people will fight over the last piece—such a delightful compliment!

FAQs About Taiyaki (Japanese Fish Dessert)

What is Taiyaki (Japanese Fish Dessert)?

Taiyaki is a delightful Japanese fish-shaped cake traditionally filled with sweet fillings. Originating in Japan in the early 20th century, it features a crispy exterior with a fluffy cake texture. Typically, taiyaki is filled with sweet red bean paste known as anko, although modern variations include custard, chocolate, or even fruity fillings. This treat is popular at festivals and street fairs, capturing the hearts of many with its whimsical shape and comforting flavors. It’s a fun dessert that appeals to both children and adults alike.

How do you make taiyaki batter?

Taiyaki batter is a simple mix of cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, egg, and milk. Begin by sifting the dry ingredients together to ensure even distribution of leavening agents. Then whisk together the wet ingredients until well combined. The key to a light and fluffy batter is allowing it to rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This helps the flour hydrate and creates a smoother texture, resulting in deliciously golden, crispy taiyaki when cooked.

What are the best fillings for taiyaki?

While the traditional filling for taiyaki is sweet red bean paste, there are numerous delicious alternatives to try. Popular options include custard, Nutella, chestnut paste, and even fresh fruit like banana or strawberries. For a savory twist, you could fill them with cheese or a mix of sweet potato and cinnamon. Experiment with flavors and fillings to find your personal favorite. The versatility of taiyaki allows you to get creative with every batch.

Can taiyaki be eaten cold?

Yes, taiyaki can be eaten cold, but they are best enjoyed warm and freshly cooked! If you find yourself with leftovers, storing them in an airtight container keeps them fresh for a few days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, a quick reheat in a toaster oven or oven can restore their crispy exterior and warm filling, making them just as delightful as the first time you tried them.

Conclusion for Taiyaki (Japanese Fish Dessert)

Taiyaki (Japanese Fish Dessert) is a charming and versatile treat that brings joy to any occasion. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can create restaurant-quality results right in your kitchen. From the whimsy of its fish shape to the delicious fillings, taiyaki is not just a dessert but an experience to share with friends and family. Whether you stick with the classic anko filling or explore new flavors, this delightful dessert is bound to be a hit at your next gathering.