#Japan #Tokyo #Nakamuraya #Kurozato #Karinto Manju

Nakamuraya to Introduce Baked Kurozato Karinto Manju

On May 1, 2026, Nakamuraya Co., Ltd., headquartered in Shinjuku, Tokyo, will unveil its latest confection, the Baked Kurozato Karinto Manju, in supermarkets across the Kanto area. This delightful sweet is a perfect companion for tea, showcasing a crispy dough made with Okinawan black sugar, encasing smooth homemade red bean paste.

The Art of Anko at Nakamuraya

Since starting its production of traditional Japanese sweets (wagashi) in 1909, Nakamuraya has dedicated itself to creating high-quality anko (sweet red bean paste). The company emphasizes the importance of using carefully selected ingredients and traditional methods to enhance the natural flavors of its products. With a mission to provide an exceptional wagashi experience, the new Baked Kurozato Karinto Manju is designed to emphasize both the texture of the dough and the taste of the red bean paste.

Development Background

The manju category within the wagashi market has been on the rise, with black sugar-flavored manju gaining particular popularity due to their unique sweet and rich flavors. Research indicates that 62% of consumers prefer to enjoy wagashi after meals, making it a fitting choice for family tea time.

Recognizing this trend, Nakamuraya focused on creating a black sugar karinto manju that balances both the dough and red bean paste, ensuring a rich flavor that pairs well with tea. By opting for a baked preparation instead of frying, the company has minimized greasiness, achieving a crispy texture that remains satisfying over time.

Key Features of the Product

• - Crispy Texture of Karinto: The dough, made primarily from rice flour, is baked to perfection, providing a consistent crunch that recalls the texture of traditional karinto snacks. Incorporating Okinawan black sugar enhances the flavor, adding depth and richness.

• - Homemade Smooth Anko: The anko is crafted in-house, ensuring a delicious balance of sweetness and moisture. Developed specifically for the baked manju, this smooth red bean paste maintains its desirable texture, even after being baked for extended periods.

• - Perfect Harmony: Special care has been taken to align the dough and anko in a way that elevates both components. The result is a remarkable balance where the crispy dough complements the velvety anko, making each bite a delight.

Product Details

• - Product Name: Baked Kurozato Karinto Manju
• - Description: A rich black sugar dough, made with Okinawan ingredients, enveloping a silky homemade red bean paste.
• - Retail Price: 171 yen (tax included)
• - Launch Date: May 1, 2026
• - Contents: One piece
• - Distribution: Available in supermarkets throughout the Kanto area
• - Shelf Life: 60 days

A Legacy of Confectionery

Founded in 1901 as a bakery and expanding to wagashi in 1909 and Western sweets in 1920, Nakamuraya has spent over a century perfecting its craft. The company's ethos, focused on