Cream box (クリームボックス)

The city of Koriyama in Fukushima, Japan, is home to a beloved local treat that, at first glance, seems remarkably simple. This sweet staple, known as the Cream Box, is more than just a piece of bread with cream. It is a source of local pride and a testament to the charm of keeping things uncomplicated yet delicious. This article will provide a closer look at this sweet icon, from its origins to its place in the hearts of Koriyama’s residents.

What is Cream Box?

A Cream Box is a small, thick slice of soft bread, similar to a regular loaf but cut into a compact square. This bread comes with a generous, thick layer of sweet, milky cream. The base recipe for the cream is consistent across most bakeries, made from a simple mixture of milk, fresh cream, and sugar. This simplicity is the dish’s main strength, as it provides a blank canvas for bakeries to express their own style. While the core item is a constant, each shop gives it a unique feel, from the type of bread used to the consistency of the cream. This variety allows for a fun experience where you can try different versions of the same classic item.

A Sweet History

The Cream Box has a long and cherished history, beginning in 1976 when the bakery Romeo in Koriyama City created this. For nearly 50 years, this simple sweet bread has been a favorite among locals. Its appeal is so widespread that it has grown beyond its original shop. Today, it is not only found in bakeries but also sold in local supermarkets, convenience stores, and even school cafeterias. This widespread availability shows how the Cream Box has evolved from a single bakery’s product into a fundamental part of the city’s identity, representing a sense of comfort and local pride for the entire community.  

Reference: City Koriyama

A Beloved Landmark To Try Cream Box

Ootomo Bakery (大友パン店)

While the Cream Box can be found in many places throughout Koriyama, some bakeries are particularly famous for their versions. For example, Sun Etoile offers a version with a very soft, dessert-like texture, while Futabaya makes a rare Cream Box with flaky Danish pastry dough. Among these local favorites is Ootomo Bakery, a well-known establishment with a long history.  

Ootomo Bakery’s version of the Cream Box uses a thick-cut piece of bread that holds its shape well. The cream, while soft and generous inside, has a slightly firm surface because they baked it after they spread it on the bread. This bakery has been a beloved part of the community for a long time and has even been featured on Japanese television.  

Address: 24-9 Toramaru-cho, Koriyama-shi, Fukushima  
Phone Number: 024-923-6536
Business Hours: 7:30 AM to 7:00 PM (Monday-Saturday); 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM (Sunday)
Website: https://www.instagram.com/ootomo_pan

Conclusion

The enduring appeal of the Cream Box lies in its perfect balance of simplicity and a distinct local flavor. It represents a piece of Koriyama’s history and character, serving as a comforting and delicious treat for people of all ages. Its wide availability ensures that it remains a cherished part of daily life for residents.

If you enjoy the simple, creamy taste of the Cream Box, you may also like to try some of its unique variations, such as the Rakunou Cafe au Lait Box or the seasonal Peach Box. For similar creamy pastries from other places, you might enjoy trying melon pan, cream puffs, éclairs, or chouquettes.