Cute Christmas Pastries in Japan!

You know it’s almost Yuletide in Japan when bakeries roll out their holiday desserts. Their mouth-watering cookies and cakes are enough to put you in the festive mood. And while you might see a lot of familiar treats, there are other cute Christmas pastries in Japan that you might have never tried before!

What are some popular Japanese Christmas pastries?

We can’t talk about the holidays without the iconic Christmas cake! This fluffy sponge cake is a holiday staple with whipped cream and strawberries. It used to be too expensive for middle-class people to buy or make. Now, you’ll see many families eating it on Christmas Eve. Compared to other items on this list, it’s easy to bake at home.

Bûche de Noël is another famous sponge cake eaten around December 25. Named after the Yule log traditionally burnt in winter, it’s usually a yellow cake with chocolate buttercream icing. Decorations include chocolate, berries, and other candies in the shape of holly leaves or mushrooms. The options are endless!

Finally, if you’re looking for something colder, Baskin Robbins (or Thirty-One, called in Japan) has you covered! Order their special 8-piece, 14-flavor Christmas ice cream cake to put a smile on the kids’ faces. Serve with hot chocolate and marshmallows; to put a spin on it, add miso for an umami flavor or sake for the grownups.

Where can I buy cute Christmas pastries?

Buying holiday bakes is your best bet if you’re not a chef or are away from home. While you can find sweet treats at convenience stores, there are many bakeries you can visit instead. 

First, there’s Ginza Cozy Corner with its special themed menus. 2024’s theme is FunFun Christmas. Popular sets include the eight-piece Disney Tsum Tsum petit cakes and Santa’s Christmas Market with 12 petit cakes. They also sell bigger, fancier cakes like the Special Mont Blanc and Miroir Chocolat.

For something more kawaii, we recommend Cake With, a newer business offering cakes and cookies for all occasions. Winter items include chocolate and strawberry cakes with cute decorations like teddy bears, trees, and bows. Don’t forget to stop by this shop during Valentine’s Day and Halloween.

Finally, visit the Grand Hyatt Tokyo if you want something more expensive. They have nine holiday cakes ready for preorder, including the Vanilla Hexenhaus (witches’ house) and extra-large Chantilly Chocolat cake. For something less sweet, the hotel’s Florentina Pastry Boutique also sells stollen and panettone.

Are you looking for cute accessories to go with your cute Christmas pastries? Check out YumeTwins! YumeTwins sends all kinds of kawaii character goods – from Japanese plushies to stationery – right to your door so that you can enjoy your best kawaii lifestyle on your way!

What are the best Christmas pastries for holiday parties?

Of course, since it’s Christmastime, bakeries will be booked up in advance, and there will be long lineups for freshly baked pastries. It might be a good idea to make your desserts. As mentioned before, sponge cake is easy to make and decorate, especially if you have help. But there are two other desserts we’d recommend making.

Pavlovas are very popular during the holidays. They’re light and fluffy, made with egg whites, and there are many flavors: classic meringue, chocolate, matcha, and yuzu. Top them with whipped cream, chocolate, fresh fruit, and caramel. They’re so tasty—just be aware they’re more delicate, too!

For something simpler, why not make some mousse? It’s easy to whip up and great for parties. You can spice it up with rum, orange, and berries. While chocolate is the most common flavor, pistachio is a great option to add a pop of color. Try making a few different variations this year. 

Why should you buy cute Christmas pastries in Japan?

Japanese Christmas pastries come in many different flavors and textures. Sweet strawberries, crunchy pistachios, and smooth, silky chocolate will have you asking for seconds and thirds. Then there are the adorable designs. Reindeers, snowmen, and Santa Claus come to life in creative, sugary concoctions. You might not want to eat your dessert after all!

Finally, you’re supporting businesses working around the clock. Remember to be patient, especially if orders take longer and mistakes happen. Don’t forget to smile and show the staff how much you appreciate them.

Making and eating food is part of what makes the holidays unique. Seeing cute pastries in Japanese stores will put a smile on the grumpiest Grinch’s face. And buying one or more of them will make your spirits brighter. Whether it’s a Santa-topped sponge cake or a snowflake-dusted mousse, we guarantee it’ll make this year’s Christmas the best. Which of these pastries would you like to eat the most? Tell us in the comments.