Matcha Butter Mochi

Introduction

Matcha Butter Mochi is a delightful fusion dessert that combines the chewy texture of traditional Japanese mochi with the rich, buttery goodness of American-style butter cake, all infused with the earthy, slightly bitter flavor of matcha green tea powder. This recipe offers a unique twist on a classic treat, delivering a moist, dense, and incredibly satisfying dessert that’s perfect for tea time, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress with something a little different. The vibrant green hue of the matcha adds a beautiful visual appeal, making this treat as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

The first time I made Matcha Butter Mochi, I was captivated by the unique texture and flavor profile. The chewy, almost bouncy texture contrasted beautifully with the rich, buttery notes, and the matcha added a layer of complexity that elevated the dessert to new heights. As I took my first bite, I knew I had stumbled upon something special – a dessert that was both familiar and refreshingly different.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity and the stunning results it delivers. It’s incredibly easy to make with just a few pantry staples, yet it tastes like something you’d find in a high-end bakery. You can customize it by adding white chocolate chips for extra sweetness, topping it with toasted coconut flakes for added texture, or even swirling in a bit of red bean paste for a more traditional Japanese flavor. No matter how you serve it, Matcha Butter Mochi is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Perfect for

• Tea time
• Potlucks
• Holiday gatherings
• Dessert for matcha lovers
• Unique dessert experiences

Why You’ll Love This Matcha Butter Mochi Recipe

Here’s why Matcha Butter Mochi will become your new favorite dessert:

• Unique Texture: The chewy, mochi-like texture combined with the richness of butter cake creates a delightful and satisfying mouthfeel.
• Distinctive Flavor: The earthy, slightly bitter flavor of matcha green tea perfectly complements the sweetness of the cake, creating a balanced and nuanced taste.
• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort and simple ingredients, making it accessible to bakers of all skill levels.
• Impressive and Beautiful: The vibrant green color and elegant appearance make this dessert visually stunning, perfect for special occasions.
• Customizable: The recipe can be easily customized with different toppings or additions to suit your personal preferences.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 9-12 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 3g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Matcha Butter Mochi:

• 2 cups sweet rice flour (glutinous rice flour, mochiko)
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 tablespoons matcha green tea powder
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• ½ cup whole milk
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional toppings: sesame seeds, toasted coconut flakes, white chocolate chips

Ingredient Highlights

• Sweet Rice Flour (Mochiko): This is the key ingredient for the chewy, mochi-like texture. Ensure you use glutinous rice flour, not regular rice flour.
• Matcha Green Tea Powder: This adds the distinctive flavor and vibrant green color. Look for culinary grade matcha for baking.
• Coconut Milk: This contributes to the richness and moisture of the cake, while also adding a subtle coconut flavor.
• Melted Butter: Butter adds richness and flavor, giving the mochi a buttery cake-like texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Matcha Butter Mochi:

Prepare the Batter:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the sweet rice flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and matcha green tea powder until well combined.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, whole milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. The batter will be thin.

Bake the Mochi:

1. Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
2. Add Toppings (Optional): If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds, toasted coconut flakes, or white chocolate chips over the top of the batter.
3. Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the mochi is golden brown around the edges and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Cool: Let the mochi cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

Serve:

1. Cut into Squares: Once cooled, cut the mochi into squares.
2. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Matcha Butter Mochi at room temperature or slightly warm. It can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

How to Serve Matcha Butter Mochi

Matcha Butter Mochi is a versatile dessert that can be served in a variety of ways:

• Plain: Serve the mochi squares as is for a simple and satisfying treat.
• With Ice Cream: Pair with a scoop of vanilla or green tea ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• With Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside fresh berries or sliced mango for a refreshing complement.
• With Whipped Cream: Top with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness and texture.
• As a Tea Time Treat: Serve with a cup of hot green tea for a traditional Japanese tea time experience.

Additional Tips for Matcha Butter Mochi

Here are some tips to ensure your Matcha Butter Mochi is perfect every time:

• Use the Right Flour: Make sure to use sweet rice flour (glutinous rice flour or mochiko) for the best texture. Regular rice flour will not work in this recipe.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can result in a tough mochi. Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined.
• Let it Cool Completely: Allow the mochi to cool completely before cutting into squares. This will help it set properly and prevent it from being too sticky.
• Adjust Baking Time: Baking times may vary depending on your oven. Start checking the mochi after 50 minutes and adjust the baking time as needed.
• Grease the Pan Well: Make sure to grease and flour the baking pan thoroughly to prevent the mochi from sticking.

Recipe Variations for Matcha Butter Mochi

Here are some variations you can try for Matcha Butter Mochi:

• White Chocolate Matcha Butter Mochi: Add ½ cup of white chocolate chips to the batter for extra sweetness and flavor.
• Coconut Matcha Butter Mochi: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top of the batter before baking for added texture and a tropical flavor.
• Red Bean Matcha Butter Mochi: Swirl red bean paste (anko) into the batter before baking for a more traditional Japanese flavor.
• Black Sesame Matcha Butter Mochi: Add 2 tablespoons of black sesame seeds (ground or whole) to the batter for a nutty flavor and added visual appeal.
• Hojicha Butter Mochi: Substitute the matcha powder with hojicha powder (roasted green tea powder) for a different flavor profile.
• Ube Butter Mochi: Substitute the matcha powder with ube extract and purple food coloring for a vibrant purple dessert with a unique flavor.
• Chocolate Chip Butter Mochi: Omit the matcha and add ½ cup of chocolate chips for a classic chocolate chip butter mochi.
• Pandan Butter Mochi: Add 1-2 teaspoons of pandan extract to the batter for a fragrant and tropical flavor.
• Brown Butter Matcha Mochi: Brown the butter before adding it to the wet ingredients for a richer, nuttier flavor.
• Gluten-Free Matcha Mochi: This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses sweet rice flour.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Matcha Butter Mochi can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Allow it to cool completely before cutting into squares. Wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Storage: Store leftover Matcha Butter Mochi in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, but it may become slightly firmer.

Special Equipment for Matcha Butter Mochi

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Matcha Butter Mochi easier:

• 9×13 inch Baking Pan: A 9×13 inch baking pan is ideal for making a standard-sized batch of Matcha Butter Mochi.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for combining the dry and wet ingredients smoothly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measuring is important for achieving the right balance of flavors and texture.
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need two mixing bowls: one for the dry ingredients and one for the wet ingredients.
• Toothpick: A toothpick is used to check the doneness of the mochi.

FAQ Section for Matcha Butter Mochi

1. Can I use regular rice flour instead of sweet rice flour?
   No, you cannot use regular rice flour. Sweet rice flour (glutinous rice flour or mochiko) is essential for the chewy, mochi-like texture.
2. Can I use a different type of milk?
   Yes, you can use almond milk, soy milk, or any other plant-based milk in place of whole milk.
3. Can I reduce the amount of sugar?
   Yes, you can reduce the amount of sugar to 1 cup if you prefer a less sweet dessert.
4. My mochi is too sticky. What did I do wrong?
   Make sure you used sweet rice flour and did not overmix the batter. Also, be sure to let the mochi cool completely before cutting it into squares.
5. My mochi is too dry. What did I do wrong?
   Make sure you used the correct amount of coconut milk and butter. Also, be sure not to overbake the mochi.

Print

Conclusion

This recipe is a unique and delightful dessert that is sure to impress. The chewy texture, earthy matcha flavor, and buttery richness make it a truly unforgettable treat. Whether you’re a matcha enthusiast or simply looking for a new and exciting dessert to try, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite.

I’d love to see your Matcha Butter Mochi creations! Be sure to tag me on Instagram with your version—I can’t wait to see how you bring this luscious dessert to life. Don’t forget to leave a comment and share your thoughts. Happy baking!