The word “cake” in Japanese and its context:
- ケーキ (kēki)
This is the most common word for “cake” in Japanese, and it is used for Western-style cakes, such as birthday cakes, layered cakes, cheesecakes, and so on. It’s a direct borrowing from the English word “cake,” and is pronounced “kēki.”Examples:
- バースデーケーキ (bāsudē kēki) = Birthday cake
- チーズケーキ (chīzukēki) = Cheesecake
- ショートケーキ (shōtokēki) = Shortcake (often refers to a sponge cake with whipped cream and strawberries)
- 和菓子 (wagashi)
This refers to traditional Japanese sweets or confections, and while not exactly “cake” in the Western sense, it could be a category of sweets that are made with rice flour, sweet red bean paste, and other ingredients. Examples of wagashi include mochi (glutinous rice cakes) and dorayaki (a red bean-filled cake).Examples:
- もち (mochi) = A chewy rice cake, often filled with sweet fillings like red bean paste
- どら焼き (dorayaki) = A type of cake sandwich filled with sweet red bean paste
- みたらし団子 (mitarashi dango) = Skewered rice dumplings glazed with a sweet soy sauce-based syrup
- カステラ (kasutera)
This is a traditional sponge cake in Japan, introduced from Portugal during the 16th century. It’s soft, moist, and usually made with eggs, sugar, and flour. Kasutera is particularly popular in Nagasaki and has a distinct taste and texture. - スイーツ (suītsu)
Another way to refer to “sweets” or “desserts” in Japanese, which comes from the English word “sweets.” It’s often used to refer to not just cakes but all kinds of desserts, including cookies, pies, and pastries.Example:
- スイーツバイキング (suītsu baikingu) = Dessert buffet
Conclusion:
- ケーキ (kēki): Western-style cakes
- 和菓子 (wagashi): Traditional Japanese sweets
- カステラ (kasutera): Japanese sponge cake
- スイーツ (suītsu): General term for sweets and desserts