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A whimsical fish-shaped cake decorated with frosting and sprinkles.

Classic Fish-shaped Cake

A delightful recipe for classic fish-shaped cakes, perfect as a snack or dessert. These sweet cakes are golden brown and typically filled with a delicious sweet red bean paste.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 cakes
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 1 ½ cups All-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon Salt
Wet Ingredients
  • 1 Large egg
  • 1 ¼ cups Milk
  • 2 tablespoons Melted unsalted butter plus extra for greasing
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract optional
Filling
  • 1 ½ cups Prepared filling e.g., sweet red bean paste

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Whisk
  • Medium bowl
  • Fish-shaped cake mold (tai-yaki pan)
  • Tongs or small spatula

Method
 

Prepare Batter
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
  3. Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients, whisking until smooth, then let the batter rest for 10-15 minutes.
Cook Cakes
  1. Heat and lightly grease your fish-shaped cake mold.
  2. Pour a small amount of batter into each fish cavity to cover the bottom.
  3. Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of filling into the center of each batter-filled cavity.
  4. Pour more batter over the filling, ensuring it covers and reaches the mold edges.
  5. Close the mold and cook for 2-3 minutes per side on stovetop, or according to electric maker instructions, until golden.
  6. Carefully remove the cooked cakes and place them on a wire rack to cool slightly.
  7. Repeat the process with the remaining batter and filling.

Notes

Ensure your fish-shaped cake mold is adequately preheated for an even cook and golden-brown finish. Do not overmix the batter to keep the cakes tender. These cakes are best enjoyed warm but can also be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for a day or two.