7-Eleven Japan is offering the “O-Matcha Kinchaku Crepe (Made with Tokyo Milk)” at select stores across Tokyo. Priced at 270 yen (including tax), this unique dessert combines traditional Japanese flavors with Western-style pastry elements. We decided to try it for ourselves.
Related Photos: O-Matcha Kinchaku Crepe and Three Additional Images
The dessert features a soft, chewy crepe filled with two varieties of matcha cream: a rich matcha cream and a lighter matcha whipped cream. White chocolate adds another layer of sweetness, bringing together Japanese and Western ingredients. Matcha is a finely ground Japanese green tea powder widely used in traditional tea ceremonies and modern desserts.
Each crepe contains 262 calories, roughly equivalent to the 234 calories found in a typical Japanese bowl of cooked rice.
The first thing that catches the eye is its unusual appearance. The crepe resembles a kinchaku, a traditional Japanese drawstring pouch often associated with kimono and other traditional clothing. The carefully folded pastry creates an adorable little bundle. When placed on an adult’s palm, it is slightly larger than the hand itself. Its charming, approachable appearance makes an immediate impression.
However, attempting to cut into the dessert with a fork reveals an unexpected challenge. The gathered knot at the center is surprisingly tough. Even when pressing down firmly with the tip of a fork, it barely gives way. Eventually, we had to use our hands and apply some force to pull it apart. Considering how soft and delicate the dessert looks, the resistance was quite a surprise.
As for the flavor, matcha takes center stage, delivering a distinctly Japanese taste. The two types of cream create a rich, satisfying combination that spreads across the palate. The sweetness of the white chocolate adds a Western confectionery touch, complementing the green tea flavor.
Another highlight is the crepe’s soft, pleasantly chewy texture. Unlike the remarkably firm knot at the top, the rest of the pastry has a smooth, tender mouthfeel that blends beautifully with the creamy filling. The different ingredients work together naturally, creating a balanced fusion of Japanese and Western dessert traditions.
One thing to keep in mind, however, is temperature. Although the dessert is refrigerated at the store, the cream inside is extremely soft. It can easily melt and become runny while being carried around. For that reason, we recommend eating it shortly after purchase. If some time has passed, it is best to place the crepe back in the refrigerator and allow it to chill thoroughly before enjoying it.
With its adorable drawstring-pouch appearance, distinctive matcha flavor, and the sweetness of white chocolate, this dessert offers plenty to enjoy. The unusually tough knot may catch you off guard, but the combination of chewy crepe and soft, creamy filling makes it an appealing treat.
Please note that availability may vary by store.
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