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Podcast: レアジョブ英会話 Daily News Article Podcast
Episode: German Baumkuchen ‘tree cake’ survived a disaster and world wars to become a Japanese favorite
Description: Baumkuchen originated in Germany but has become a wildly popular sweet in Japan, where a prisoner of war (POW) on a small western island started making the treat that has thrived in its new homeland.
Today, the confectionery known as “tree cake,” because of the resemblance to a trunk with rings, is considered a symbol of longevity and prosperity in Japan, where Baumkuchen festivals are regularly held.
Japanese adaptations, including those using matcha and sweet potatoes, are popular gifts at weddings and birthdays. Baumkuchen is sold in gift boxes at luxury department stores, and individually wrapped, smaller versions can be foun...