Manju (Japanese Sweet Bean Paste Cookies)

May 16, 2023May 16, 20230 1

Traditional Japanese sweet bean paste cookies - Manju recipe

Manju (Japanese Sweet Bean Paste Cookies)

by The Chefin Cookie

Prep

20 min

Cook

12 min

Ready In

32 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

226

Sugar

23g

Fat

10g

Manju is a traditional Japanese dessert made from sweetened red bean paste, known as Anko, and soft dough made of flour, sugar, and butter. The dessert is a popular snack during traditional Japanese tea ceremonies and is available in several varieties, shapes, and sizes across the country. The most common variety is Koshian - smooth red bean paste - which is used in this recipe. Manju is perfect for serving as a sweet snack with tea during any time of the day.

Instructions

1.	Use a medium bowl to cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2.	Next, beat the eggs and vanilla extract in a small bowl before adding them to the butter mixture.
3.	In another medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder.
4.	Gently mix the flour mixture into the butter mixture until combined. The dough should be soft.
5.	In a separate bowl, mix the koshi an and evaporated milk until a paste is formed.
6.	Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7.	To assemble, take a portion of dough in your hand, roughly the size of a golf ball.
8.	Make a well with your thumb and fill it with about 2 teaspoons of the koshi an mixture.
9.	Pinch the dough together around the filling, encasing it in the dough.
10.	Place the ball onto the prepared baking sheet. Repeat the process with the remaining dough and koshi an mixture.
11.	Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the bottoms are golden brown. Cool and serve.

PROS

Manju is a delicious and unique dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth.

The soft cookie is filled with sweet red bean paste for a delightful treat.

CONS

The high sugar content in this recipe makes it a high-calorie dessert option.

Too much of the Japanese sweet bean paste can be cloying, so it is essential to use it in moderation or to taste.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Red bean paste is a good source of dietary fiber, protein, and iron.
The antioxidants present in red beans can help to reduce inflammation and improve digestive health. However, the high sugar content in this dessert may not be suitable for people with diabetes or blood sugar concerns.

	2 cups white sugar
	1 cup butter , softened
	4 eggs
	1 teaspoon vanilla extract
	5 cups all-purpose flour
	2 tablespoons baking powder
	1 can koshi an ( sweetened red bean paste )
	1/4 cup evaporated milk , or as needed