YATSUHASHI (KYOTO CINNAMON COOKIE)

Prefecture: Kyoto 
Producer: Aoyama Mameju
Ingredients: Sugar, rice flour, kinako (roasted ground soybeans), ground cinnamon, sesame (includes soy and sesame)
Vegan, Gluten-free, Dairy-free
Size: 100g 

Nothing says “Kyoto” quite like yatsuhashi cookies. In Japanese culture, people traditionally bring back food souvenirs, known as omiyage, from their travels to share with friends, family, and work colleagues. Every region produces its own special souvenirs, yet yatsuhashi from Kyoto are among the most famous and widely recognized in all of Japan.

There are several types of yatsuhashi from the soft and chewy nama (or raw) yatsuhashi to the traditional crunchy baked variety. Typically made from a combination of rice flour and sugar flavored with cinnamon, these baked yatsuhashi from Aoyama Mameju also include kinako (roasted and ground soybeans), which adds a sweet, nutty flavor similar to peanut butter. To make the cookies, the dough is rolled into a rectangle and baked until hard, giving the cookies an elegant curve which resembles a Japanese koto (or harp).

Aoyama Mameju, based in Kyoto and located near the entrance to Sennyuji Temple, has been producing traditional sweets and snacks since the store was founded in 1912. When you step into the shop, you can feel yourself transported back to the Edo Period by the shelves lined with bean snacks, simple cookies, rice crackers, and more. The company prides itself on its careful selection of ingredients and staying true to traditional recipes. 

Suggested uses: Enjoy as is. Delicious with coffee or tea.

Note: Baked yatsuhashi are quite crunchy and dense. Enjoy with care!