Pop Japan

Ningyo-yaki is a traditional Japanese cake originating from the town of Ningyo-cho. The recipe has been unchanged for over 100 years, since its establishment in the 40th year of Meiji. 

A mixture of eggs and sugar are left to settle overnight then mixed with flour and egg white to form the cake batter. They are then molded into the images of the shichifukujin or the seven gods of luck. Some bakeries add anko or sweet bean paste into the cake. The original bakery who coined the name for these cakes is called Itakura-ya. Today, the baked treats are famous in Tokyo Asakusa. Aside, from the gods of luck, the cakes are also molded into the shape of pagodas, lanterns, and even popular anime characters like Doraemon. 

Tags: food, Ningyo-yaki, Japanese cake, Ningyo-cho, shichifukujin, anko, Itakura-ya, Tokyo Asakusa, god of luck, pagoda, lantern, Doraemon