Butter Mochi Recipe

• Table of Contents

  • Introduction
  • Time
  • Ingredients
  • Step-by-Step Instructions
  • Cooking Tips
  • Variations
  • Nutrition per Serving
  • Serving Suggestions
  • Conclusion

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Introduction

Butter mochi is a delightful dessert that hails from Hawaii, where it has become a beloved treat among locals and visitors alike. This chewy, sweet confection is made primarily from glutinous rice flour, which gives it a unique texture that is both soft and slightly sticky. The addition of butter and coconut milk lends a rich flavor that sets it apart from other mochi varieties. Traditionally, mochi is a Japanese rice cake, but the Hawaiian version has been adapted to include local ingredients, making it a fusion of cultures. Butter mochi is often enjoyed during special occasions, potlucks, and family gatherings, and its popularity continues to grow beyond the islands.

Time

• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups glutinous rice flour (also known as sweet rice flour)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat for richer flavor)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• Optional: 1/2 cup shredded coconut for added texture

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well blended.
3. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
4. Combine wet and dry mixtures: Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. If you are adding shredded coconut, fold it in at this stage.
5. Pour into the pan: Once the batter is smooth, pour it into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
6. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and cut: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the butter mochi to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Once slightly cooled, cut it into squares or rectangles while still warm for easier slicing.
8. Serve: Allow the butter mochi to cool completely before serving. Enjoy it at room temperature or slightly warmed.

Cooking Tips

• Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of butter mochi greatly depends on the quality of the butter and coconut milk used. Opt for full-fat coconut milk for a richer taste.
• Don’t overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid a tough texture.
• Check for doneness: Since ovens can vary, start checking for doneness a few minutes before the 30-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
• Storage: Store leftover butter mochi in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. It can also be frozen for longer storage.

Variations

• Chocolate Butter Mochi: Add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolatey twist.
• Matcha Butter Mochi: Substitute 2 tablespoons of glutinous rice flour with matcha powder for a green tea flavor.
• Fruit-Infused: Incorporate mashed ripe bananas or pureed mango into the wet mixture for a fruity flavor.
• Dairy-Free Version: Replace the butter with coconut oil and use a dairy-free milk alternative to make it suitable for vegan diets.

Nutrition per Serving

Each serving of butter mochi (based on 16 servings) contains approximately:

• kcal: 180
• fat: 7g
• saturates: 4g
• carbs: 28g
• sugars: 12g
• fibre: 1g
• protein: 2g
• salt: 0.1g

Serving Suggestions

Butter mochi can be served in various ways to enhance its appeal:

• Garnish: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate sauce for an elegant touch.
• Accompaniments: Pair with fresh fruit like strawberries or mango slices for a refreshing contrast.
• Beverages: Serve alongside a cup of green tea or a tropical smoothie to complement the flavors.
• Presentation: Arrange the mochi squares on a decorative platter and garnish with mint leaves for a pop of color.

Conclusion

Butter mochi is a delightful dessert that combines the chewy texture of traditional mochi with the rich flavors of butter and coconut. Its simple preparation and versatility make it a perfect treat for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a casual get-together with friends. With the ability to customize the recipe to suit different tastes and dietary needs, butter mochi is sure to please a wide range of palates. So why not give this Hawaiian delicacy a try? You may just find a new favorite dessert that brings a taste of the islands to your kitchen!

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