Growing up in the USA, jello was a cheap dessert, mostly only eaten by children. But Japan has changed my perspective! “Jelly” desserts come in all sorts of styles, from cheap convenient store treats to expensive indulgences filled with high-end fruits. Perhaps my favorite is coffee jelly. The combination of sugared coffee jelly topped with fresh cream, ice cream, or whipped cream (or all three) is the perfect afternoon treat. It’s very easy to make at home as well, and I’m still waiting for Westerners, with their appreciation for coffee desserts, to catch on to it’s goodness!

Illustration & text by Kailene Matsuzaki (Falls)