Introduction: A Revolution in Japanese Desserts in 2025
If you’ve ever found yourself scrolling through Instagram at midnight, drooling over aesthetic Japanese desserts, then congratulations—you’re one of us!
Japanese sweets have long been known for their delicate balance of flavors, stunning presentation, and surprisingly low-calorie options. But what’s trending in 2025?
Forget what you thought you knew about matcha everything—there’s a whole new wave of desserts taking over!
Whether you’re looking for a guilt-free treat, something fun to make with your kids, or just an excuse to try something different (because let’s be real, you deserve it), these five trending Japanese desserts should be on your must-try list!
And the best part? Some of these are super easy to make at home! Keep reading to find out which ones will be taking over your social feeds—and your kitchen.
Warabi Mochi
Move over, classic mochi! Warabi Mochi is here to steal the spotlight. Made with bracken starch instead of glutinous rice, it has a delicate jelly-like texture that melts in your mouth.
Typically coated in kinako (roasted soybean flour) and drizzled with kuromitsu (Japanese black sugar syrup), this Japanese dessert is simple, elegant, and incredibly refreshing.
It’s perfect for a hot summer day. Plus, it’s naturally low in calories, making it the ideal guilt-free indulgence!
Matcha Milkshake
Matcha milkshakes have been around, but 2025 is all about elevated matcha experiences.
Think Japanese-style parfaits in drink form, layered with kanten jelly, adzuki beans, and crunchy puffed rice. The deep umami flavor of matcha is perfectly balanced with creamy, lightly sweetened milk.
Matcha Milkshake is the fusion of traditional Japanese flavors and modern cafe culture—aka, exactly what you have been waiting for!
Related article about Matcha : 5 Ways to Use Japanese Matcha for Your Breakfast.
Japanese Cheesecake
Light, fluffy, and slightly jiggly, Japanese Cheesecake is like a cloud of deliciousness. Unlike the dense, rich cheesecakes found elsewhere, this one is soft, airy, and melts in your mouth.
Why this Japanese Dessert is trending in 2025
- A healthier alternative to Western cheesecakes.
- The “jiggly” aesthetic makes it a viral hit on social media.
- Pairs perfectly with green tea or coffee.
Check out our Japanese Cheesecake Recipe right here!
Dorayaki
This pancake sandwich is filled with sweet red bean paste, making it one of Japan’s most beloved traditional sweets.
In 2025, we’re seeing new flavor variations for Dorayaki, including matcha, custard, and chocolate fillings!
Why Dorayaki is trending in 2025
- Quick and easy to grab on the go.
- Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
- The new flavors make it more appealing to a younger audience.
Matcha Swiss Roll (Last Japanese desserts)
A classic Japanese dessert with a modern twist! The Matcha Swiss Roll features a fluffy green tea sponge cake rolled with a light and creamy filling.
The balance of slight bitterness from the matcha and the sweet, airy cream makes it a go-to for matcha lovers.
Why this Matcha Dessert is trending in 2025
- The matcha craze continues to grow worldwide.
- Perfect balance of bitterness and sweetness.
- A great alternative to heavier Western cakes.
Frequently Asked Questions about Japanese desserts
Japanese pastries tend to focus on lighter textures, less sugar, and natural flavors, whereas French pastries are often richer, with more butter and sugar. Japanese desserts also incorporate ingredients like matcha, red bean, and mochi, which are unique to their culinary culture.
You can find Japanese desserts at Asian grocery stores, specialty bakeries, and online retailers. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making them yourself!
