Japanese Doughnut: What is An Doughnut?

The donut is a fried dough confection that’s long been loved in many countries whose original form is said to be the traditional Dutch confection “Oliebollen” or “Olykoek”.

In Japan, Mister Donut and Dunkin’ Donuts opened their branches in 1970 and popularized doughnuts.

Today, there are even varieties unique to Japan, and what I introduce here “An Doughnut (あんドーナツ, 餡ドーナツ)” is the quintessential one.

An Doughnut (あんドーナツ)

An-Doughnut is a classic Japanese donut that’s been a long-time favorite in Japan but unknown when it was created. 

The reason why the donut is unique and can’t probably be seen in other countries is that the wagashi is filled with “Anko (餡子)” sweet bean paste.

It typically has Azuki red bean paste inside, but other Anko fillings, such as “Shiro-An (白餡: meaning white Anko)” or “Uguisu-An (うぐいす餡: Anko using green peas)”, may be used.

As you know, many varieties of doughnuts seen in the market come in ring shapes, but An Doughnut has no hole since it is stuffed with Anko or “An (餡)“.

Its size is generally small, and its surface is typically coated with powdered sugar/granulated sugar. 

The Japanese donut is somewhat moist, especially characterized by the gentle, refined sweetness from its Anko filling. 

Ingredients/Nutrition Facts

Lastly, let’s see the ingredients list and nutrition facts label of this An Doughnut.

According to that, the Japanese treat consists of Tsubu-An, wheat flour, oil, sugar, milk, hen’s egg, margarine, defatted soy flour, skim milk powder, salt, dried egg yolk, starch, baking powder, flavoring, gum guaiac, emulsifier, and colors.

The calories per piece are 69 kcal.

Where to Buy 

As An Doughnut is one of Japan’s most loved donut varieties, it is available in many supermarkets.

(Reference Pages: Wikipedia あんドーナツ, ドーナツ )