Dominique Ansel's famous Cronut has inspired endless imitations in Japan, including a croissant taiyaki sold at Gindaco stands across the country, as well as other bizarre hybrid pastries.
The latest product to join the craze is Croissant Muffin, a bizarre cross-breed topped with a dollop of strawberry jam and with cream cheese in the center, available at Lawson convenience stores for ¥150. While the dessert does contain the flaky layers reminiscent of a croissant, I couldn't figure out how it relates to a muffin at all. It looks and tastes like just any other convenience store-brand Danish pastry.