There’s no better way to celebrate the end of a bitter, snowy winter than with some sweet treats.
For those of you who are counting the days until the flowers are in bloom, stop by Times Square’s I’m donut ? for its new cherry blossom — or sakura — collection, released on March 1st.
The famous Japanese donut shop opened its doors in New York City last April and quickly became an internet sensation, serving up fluffy nama, or brioche-style donuts with eccentric flavors from matcha to bacon, lettuce and tomato.
The sakura collection features its $8 Sakura Raspberry Cream Donut, which is filled with raspberry mousse and jelly and coated in sakura-infused white chocolate and topped with raspberries. The donut batter and mousse are both incredibly light, which offers a nice contrast from the rich jelly. The sakura coating adds depth to the raspberry flavor, slightly floral but not overpowering. As the weather starts to warm up, this donut will make the perfect addition to a picnic in the park.
Paired with the donut is the new Sakura Latte, which starts at $7 and shares the flower’s signature pink color. The latte is served hot with a housemade sakura cream and, of course, a touch of sweet white chocolate to bring out the floral flavors.
“Cherry blossoms are very special in Japan. They remind us to slow down and cherish the present moment, because nature is fleeting,” Chef Ryouta Hirako said in a press release about the new collection. “With these special offerings, we hope to capture the spirit of sakura season as spring begins in New York.”
I’m donut ? rolled out a few other flavors exclusive to its NYC store for the spring. If you like the freshness of the Sakura Raspberry Cream Donut, you’ll love the Tangerine Royal Milk Tea flavor, which is filled with fresh tangerines and a silky earl grey tea cream. For the adventurous eaters out there, try the Anchovy Cheese Donut, which is coated in a torched three cheese béchamel. But don’t wait too long, because these offerings are only available for a limited time.
For more information about I’m donut ?, visit its website or Instagram.
(Feature photo courtesy of I’m donut ?)
