Dorayaki with a Middle Eastern Twist

Ingredients

In this Eastern Arabian adaptation of Dorayaki, the traditional Japanese pancake sandwich is transformed by incorporating Middle Eastern flavors. The original recipe is enhanced with aromatic spices commonly used in Eastern Arabian cuisine, such as cardamom and cinnamon. Additionally, the traditional red bean paste filling is replaced with a rich and velvety date paste, adding a unique sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Dorayaki, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup (180ml) milk 3/4 cup (180ml) milk
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120ml) date paste 1/2 cup (120ml) date paste
• Vegetable oil, for cooking Vegetable oil, for cooking

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 62g, 30g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.4g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cardamom, cinnamon, and salt.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. 3.
   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine.
4. 4.
   Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with vegetable oil.
5. 5.
   Pour 1/4 cup of the batter onto the pan for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for another minute or until golden brown.
6. 6.
   Transfer the cooked pancakes to a plate and cover with a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm.
7. 7.
   Once all the pancakes are cooked, spread a generous amount of date paste onto one pancake and sandwich it with another.
8. 8.
   Repeat with the remaining pancakes and date paste.
9. 9.
   Serve the Arabian Dorayaki warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Date paste — If you can't find ready-made date paste, you can make your own by blending pitted dates with a little water until smooth. Adjust the sweetness according to your preference.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra touch of Middle Eastern flavor, sprinkle some crushed pistachios on top of the date paste before sandwiching the pancakes.
• If you prefer a more pronounced spice flavor, you can increase the amount of cardamom and cinnamon in the pancake batter.
• Serve the Arabian Dorayaki with a drizzle of honey or a dusting of powdered sugar for added sweetness.

Serving advice

Serve the Arabian Dorayaki warm as a delightful breakfast or dessert. It pairs perfectly with a cup of aromatic Arabian coffee or a refreshing glass of mint tea.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Arabian Dorayaki on a platter, dust them with powdered sugar, and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint for an elegant presentation. Serve them individually or stacked in a pyramid shape for a visually appealing display.