How to Say "Cupcake" in Japanese

カップケーキ

kappukēki[ka̠p̚pɯ̟̊ke̞ːkʲi]

The Japanese word for "cupcake" is カップケーキ (kappukēki).

カップケーキ is a noun used to refer to a small cake.

Meaning: small cake (noun)

What does it mean word for word?

This word is a phonetic loan from the English "cupcake", composed of kappu (cup) and kēki (cake).

kappukēki

In Japan, the concept of a カップケーキ is often linked to 'kawaii' culture, meaning they are frequently decorated with intricate, cute characters rather than just simple frosting.
Japanese convenience stores often sell カップケーキ-style treats that are technically steamed rather than baked, reflecting a local preference for softer textures.
While a カップケーキ is a treat, Japanese culture has a strong tradition of 'omiyage' or souvenir gifting, where beautifully packaged small cakes are given as tokens of gratitude after a trip.

カップケーキはいかが？
Would you like a cupcake?
This sentence shows how to offer a カップケーキ to someone.
Tatoeba #9980041 by small_snow, translation #3123346 by CK
あのカップケーキ、食べるつもりなの？
Are you going to eat that cupcake?
This sentence is useful for asking about someone's intention regarding a カップケーキ.
Tatoeba #8726970 by bunbuku, translation #1847854 by CK
カップケーキ型に、ペーパーカップを並べます。
Set up paper cups in the cupcake baking tray.
This sentence demonstrates how to use カップケーキ in the context of a baking tray.
Tatoeba #74614 by fcbond, translation #329105 by fcbond
このカフェでは美味しいカップケーキが売られています。
Delicious cupcakes are sold at this café.
お誕生日に友達にカップケーキをもらったよ。
I received cupcakes from my friend on my birthday.

Yui and Ren are at a bakery.

結衣 Yui

このカップケーキ、すごく美味しそう！
Kono kappuke-ki, sugoku oishisou!
This cupcake looks delicious!
蓮 Ren

本当だ。どれにする？
Honto da. Dore ni suru?
It really does. Which one will you choose?
結衣 Yui

イチゴのカップケーキが欲しいな。
Ichigo no kappuke-ki ga hoshii na.
I want the strawberry cupcake.
蓮 Ren

わかった。僕も同じのを買うよ。
Wakatta. Boku mo onaji no o kau yo.
Got it. I'll buy the same one too.

Sources

⭐Share⭐ to appreciate human effort 🙏