Boro Cookies: How Are They Made?

In Japan, you can easily find boro cookies in supermarkets, specialty stores, local snack shops, or even kombini (convenience stores). It’s because they have been loved in Japan for centuries. They’re also a popular snack for toddlers and a favorite treat for little pets like hamsters. Now, let’s discover the secrets behind this much-loved Japanese treat!

What are boro cookies?

Boro cookies are small, round, and delightfully crunchy treats. These little cookies, also called boro, have a fascinating history! They were introduced to Japan in the 16th century by Portuguese traders. The original word for this treat is actually “bolo” in Portuguese, which means “cake,” but in Japan, it gradually became known as “boro,” referring to these melt-in-your-mouth cookies. 

People usually give them as gifts on special occasions or enjoy them with tea or warm milk as a cozy treat. They are also popular souvenirs, especially marubouro from Saga City in Kyushu, which has a long history of boro-making. 

Some bakeries shape them into fun patterns, such as flower petals, kittens, or tiny crowns, making them extra special. While modern machines help produce them in large quantities, handmade cookies remain a cherished part of Japan’s confectionery heritage.

What flavors do they come in?

One of the most famous is soba boro, or buckwheat cookies from Kyoto. These cookies are made using buckwheat and wheat flour, giving them a slightly nutty and earthy flavor. They have a crisp, biscotti-like texture that makes them ideal for enjoying with a cup of green tea. These soba biscuits are usually shaped like lovely flowers. Many visitors to Kyoto buy soba boro as souvenirs as they are a well-loved local specialty.

Another popular type is tamago boro, or egg cookies. These tiny, round treats are made from eggs, sugar, milk, and starch, giving them a light, airy texture that melts away with each bite. They have a gentle sweetness and are especially loved by children. For Japanese people, they are often eaten as a nostalgic snack that recalls happy childhood memories. Families sometimes share egg biscuits during holidays, like Christmas, as a fun and tasty tradition.

Besides these classic flavors, boro cookies are available in many other delicious varieties. Matcha (green tea) boro has a slight bitterness from the green tea, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a more refined taste. Chocolate boro adds a rich, sweet flavor, perfect for chocolate lovers. And sesame boro has a deep, nutty taste, adding another layer of flavor to this crispy cookie.

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How do you make them?

Making Japanese buckwheat cookies at home is super easy. With just a few steps, you can create these yummy biscuits with a gentle, nutty taste and crispy texture!

Ingredients

• Eggs
• Buckwheat flour and cake flour (or all-purpose flour)
• Sugar (brown, muscovado, or your favorite type)
• Salt
• Butter
• Baking powder
• Cold water

Instructions

1. Golden beginnings: Melt the butter over low heat and let it cool. In a big bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar and a pinch of salt until the mixture becomes light and frothy.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the buckwheat flour, cake flour, and baking powder until well mixed. Then, gradually add this mixture to the egg mixture. Stir until everything is combined, but be careful not to overmix. Add the cooled melted butter and some cold water if the dough is too dry.
3. Chill the dough: Wrap it in plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for at least one hour or overnight to become firm. 
4. Roll out and shape: Once chilled, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface or between two pieces of plastic wrap until it’s about as thin as paper. Use cookie cutters or knives to cut out fun shapes like little flowers. And if you like, make a small hole in the center so that they resemble the original Japanese version. Place the shapes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake: Preheat your oven to a warm temperature (around 350°F), and bake the biscuits until they are lightly golden around the edges. Remove them from the oven and let them cool on a rack. They will crisp up as they cool.

Once your soba cookies are cool, enjoy them with a cup of tea or milk. They make a great snack for sharing with friends and family and are a fun treat that brings a taste of Japan into your kitchen. Add flavors like cocoa powder or sesame to the dough for a twist!

Why should I try boro cookies?

Boro cookies are a small adventure that embraces a legacy of warmth and tradition. You can experience a gentle crunch and a soft sweetness with every bite. Whether bought from a traditional confectionery shop or made at home, these cookies are a delightful treat for all ages. Enjoying boro might be a good way to connect with a timeless culinary story while creating your own happy memories. So, what memory or feeling might a bite of boro spark in you? Share your thoughts in the comments!