Hawaiian Butter Mochi Recipe
Hawaiian Butter Mochi: A Chewy, Buttery Delight
If you’ve never had Hawaiian Butter Mochi, get ready to fall in love with this sweet, chewy, and slightly crispy treat that has captured hearts across the islands and beyond. Unlike traditional mochi, which is often plain or filled, butter mochi is a fusion of Japanese and Hawaiian influences, combining the bouncy chewiness of glutinous rice with the richness of butter and coconut milk.
Golden on the outside, soft and gooey on the inside, this easy-to-make dessert is the perfect balance of sweet, buttery, and coconut-infused goodness. It’s naturally gluten-free and makes a fantastic dessert or snack for any occasion.
Let’s dive into the history, flavors, and a foolproof recipe to make this island favorite at home!
What Makes Butter Mochi So Special?
This isn’t just another dessert—Hawaiian Butter Mochi is an experience! Here’s why it’s so beloved:
- Incredibly Chewy Texture – Thanks to sweet rice flour (mochi flour), every bite has that signature mochi chew.
- Rich and Buttery – Unlike traditional Japanese mochi, this version is baked and contains butter for extra flavor.
- Hints of Coconut & Vanilla – A light coconut undertone makes it irresistible.
- Easy to Make – No kneading, rolling, or complicated steps—just mix and bake!
- Perfect for Sharing – It’s made in a large batch, making it ideal for potlucks, parties, or a special treat for the family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This simple list of ingredients creates a truly magical dessert:
For the Butter Mochi:
- 1 box (16 oz) Mochiko sweet rice flour (glutinous rice flour)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: ½ teaspoon coconut extract (for extra coconut flavor)
For Topping (Optional):
- ¼ cup shredded coconut
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Mochiko flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, coconut milk, evaporated milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine & Mix
- Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring continuously until smooth and lump-free. The batter will be thin, which is normal!
5. Bake the Mochi
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool & Slice
- Let the butter mochi cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. The chewy texture develops as it cools.
- Dust with powdered sugar or sprinkle with shredded coconut for extra flair.
How to Serve & Store
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy butter mochi at room temperature for the best texture.
- Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.
- Pair it with tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, or papaya for an island-inspired dessert.
Storing Leftovers:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to a week. (Just microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften before eating.)
- Freezing: Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and store in an airtight bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Tips for the Perfect Butter Mochi
- Use Mochiko Flour: Do NOT substitute regular rice flour—it must be sweet glutinous rice flour to get the right texture.
- Mix Gently: Overmixing can affect the texture; just stir until smooth.
- Customize It: Add shredded coconut, a pinch of cinnamon, or even a splash of rum for a fun twist.
- Don’t Overbake: The top should be golden brown, but the inside should still be soft and chewy.
Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Classic
Butter Mochi is the ultimate comfort dessert—simple, satisfying, and bursting with island flavors. Whether you’re making it for a Hawaiian luau, a family gathering, or just because you crave something sweet and chewy, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.
So, what are you waiting for? Bake up a batch of this delightful, buttery, coconut-infused treat and bring a little taste of Hawaii into your home!
