Appetizer

Mayo Crab Spicy Tuna Birthday Sushi Cake – Friendsgiving Food Ideas

Name: Mayo Crab Spicy Tuna Birthday Sushi Cake – Friendsgiving Food Ideas
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2
Ingredients: 2 tbsp masago; ¼ cup Kewpie-style Japanese mayonnaise; ½ lb flaked imitation crab meat; 1 tbsp yuzu ponzu sauce; ½ tsp sesame oil; 2 tbsp whipped cream cheese; 1 tsp finely chopped green onions; 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds; 1 tbsp gochujang; 3 tbsp Japanese-style mayo; 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper1 tbsp soft cream cheese; 1 tsp lemon juice; 2 cans of tuna packed in oil; 1 tsp sugar; 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar; Necessary sushi vinegar seasoning.; Steamed short-grain rice.

Iris Miller August 3, 2025

Servings: 2 Total Time: 15 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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When I think about celebrating a birthday, my mind drifts to a vibrant spread of food. One dish that never fails to capture attention is the delightful Mayo Crab Spicy Tuna Birthday Sushi Cake. It’s a treat that draws people in with its colorful layers and exciting flavors. But let’s talk about what pairs well with this showstopper. Picture a chilled bowl of cucumber salad or a refreshing agua fresca—each sip is a burst of summer.

But before we dive into the specifics of creating this sushi cake, let’s set the mood with an enticing introduction to this unique dish.

What is Mayo Crab Spicy Tuna Birthday Sushi Cake?

At first glance, you might think this is just another sushi roll. Yet, it’s so much more. This creation combines creamy crab, spicy tuna, and perfectly seasoned sushi rice—all set in the form of a cake. It’s visually striking, easy to share, and packed with flavors that celebrate the essence of sushi. It’s fun to custom-make for birthday parties or casual get-togethers, making it a fantastic centerpiece and conversation starter.

The Ingredients

To create this culinary masterpiece, you’ll need a blend of fresh ingredients that work harmoniously together. Here’s what you’ll be collecting:

Creamy Crab Mixture:

2 tbsp masago (capelin roe): This adds a pop of flavor and color.
¼ cup Kewpie-style Japanese mayonnaise: Creamy and perfect—a must-have.
½ lb flaked imitation crab meat: Easy to use and super tasty.
1 tbsp yuzu ponzu sauce: For that zesty kick.
½ tsp sesame oil: A dash brings depth.
2 tbsp whipped cream cheese: Adds a rich texture.
1 tsp finely chopped green onions: Bright and fresh.

Spicy Tuna Mixture:

1 tsp toasted sesame seeds: For a delightful crunch.
1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste): The star of the show for spiciness.
3 tbsp Japanese-style mayo: Adds a layer of creaminess.
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper: A hint of spice.
1 tbsp soft cream cheese: To enhance creaminess.
1 tsp lemon juice: A splash of acidity.
2 cans of tuna packed in oil, drained: Ensures flavorful, moist tuna.

Sushi Rice:

1 tsp sugar: Sweetness to balance out.
1 tbsp rice wine vinegar (optional): For extra tanginess.
Necessary sushi vinegar seasoning.
Steamed short-grain rice.

How to Make Mayo Crab Spicy Tuna Birthday Sushi Cake?

Creating this sushi cake is a process, but I’ll guide you through each step. Trust me, the end results are worth every minute spent. Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the step-by-step directions!

Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice

First things first. Go ahead and make your sushi rice. You want it soft and sticky, perfect for shaping. Rinse 1 cup of short-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook according to package instructions. Once cooked, let it cool slightly. Mix in the sushi vinegar seasoning, rice wine vinegar (if using), and sugar. Stir gently to combine.

Step 2: Craft the Creamy Crab Mixture

While the rice is cooling, it’s time to pull together the creamy crab mixture. In a bowl, combine:

The flaked imitation crab meat.
The Kewpie-style mayonnaise.
Masago, yuzu ponzu sauce, sesame oil, whipped cream cheese, and chopped green onions.

Mix well until everything is evenly coated. Set this delightful blend aside.

Step 3: Create the Spicy Tuna Mix

Duplicate the magic with the spicy tuna layer. In another bowl, combine:

The drained tuna.
Japanese mayo, gochujang, black pepper, lemon juice, and soft cream cheese.

Mix thoroughly. You want those flavors to dance together.

Step 4: Layering Time!

Now for the fun part—layering! Grab a springform pan or a nice, deep dish. It’s time to assemble our cake.

Press half of the sushi rice into the bottom of your prepared pan. Make sure it’s tightly packed.
Spread the creamy crab mixture over the rice layer, smoothing it out evenly.
Add another layer of rice, pressing down gently.
Now spread the spicy tuna mixture over the rice.
Finish with a final layer of sushi rice, packing it nicely.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover your sushi cake with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This will help it hold its shape when you cut into it. When you’re ready to present it, remove it from the pan, slice into wedges like a cake, and garnish as desired with extra masago or sliced green onions.

How to make Mayo Crab Spicy Tuna Birthday Sushi Cake

Notes

As you embark on this culinary adventure, keep these tips in mind for the best results:

Use quality ingredients. Fresh crab and high-quality mayo significantly influence the taste.
Chill time is crucial. Allow enough time for the cake to set up; it makes a difference when slicing.
Customize layers. Feel free to include other ingredients your guests love.
Prep ahead. You can prepare the crab and tuna mixtures a day before; just layer right before serving.
Don’t skimp on seasoning. The flavor comes from proper seasoning, so pick your sauces wisely.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers (a rare occasion, but it can happen!), pop the sushi cake in an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to two days.

Nutrition Information

While I won’t drown you in numbers, it’s worth noting that this dish packs a punch in terms of protein, thanks to the crab and tuna. The use of Japanese mayo adds a creamy texture without the overload of unnecessary ingredients. However, keep an eye on portion sizes, as the flavors can lead to having several pieces.

Mayo Crab Spicy Tuna Birthday Sushi Cake Recipe

Serving Suggestions

Looking to bring even more joy to the table? Here’s how to serve your sushi cake:

1. Pair with Soy Sauce: A must-have side. Drizzling some soy sauce adds that essential umami flavor, enhancing every bite.

2. Serve with Pickled Ginger: This bright and sweet condiment balances the cake’s richness. It complements the dish beautifully.

3. Garnish with Wasabi: Just a small dab can elevate the flavor profile, contributing a lovely kick.

4. Accompany with Seaweed Salad: This crunchy, tangy salad is a great contrast in texture and adds an additional layer of flavor.

5. Create a DIY Szechuan Dipping Sauce: A quick mix of soy sauce, vinegar, and a touch of chili paste can spice things up!

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Mayo Crab Spicy Tuna Birthday Sushi Cake?

It’s always handy to have substitutes up your sleeve! Here’s a list of five options if you need to tweak the ingredients:

1. Fresh Crab Meat: Instead of imitation crab, you can use fresh, cooked crab meat for a more authentic taste.

2. Canned Salmon: If tuna isn’t your thing, canned salmon could be a tasty alternative—just make sure it’s drained well.

3. Greek Yogurt: As a healthier option, swap out some mayo with Greek yogurt. It provides creaminess without the extra calories.

4. Rice Vinegar and Sugar Mix: If you don’t have sushi vinegar, a simple mix of rice vinegar and sugar can work as a replacement.

5. Aioli: Replace Kewpie mayo with a good homemade aioli for an extra garlicky kick.

Conclusion

Creating a Mayo Crab Spicy Tuna Birthday Sushi Cake is an adventure that invites everyone to the table. It combines vibrant flavors and visually stunning layers, sure to impress anyone who tries it.

With simple steps and helpful tips, this dish captures the joy of making food together and sharing special moments. So whether it’s for a birthday party or just a regular Saturday, this sushi cake is bound to be a hit. Dive in, share it, and enjoy!

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Print Recipe

Mayo Crab Spicy Tuna Birthday Sushi Cake – Friendsgiving Food Ideas

Author: Iris Miller Cuisine: Japanese Courses: Appetizer

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Total Time 15 mins

Servings: 2 Calories: 622

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

When I think about celebrating a birthday, my mind drifts to a vibrant spread of food. One dish that never fails to capture attention is the delightful Mayo Crab Spicy Tuna Birthday Sushi Cake. It’s a treat that draws people in with its colorful layers and exciting flavors. But let's talk about what pairs well with this showstopper. Picture a chilled bowl of cucumber salad or a refreshing agua fresca—each sip is a burst of summer.

But before we dive into the specifics of creating this sushi cake, let’s set the mood with an enticing introduction to this unique dish.