Mochi Muffins Recipe

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Cook Time: 40 minutes

If you want to try mochi, this is a fun recipe to start with. We couldnt agree more! This mochi muffin recipe is sweet, chewy, light, and fluffy. Whats not to love?

Mochi Muffin Ingredients

Ready to make these mochi muffins? Heres what youll need:

• 2 cups glutinous sweet rice flour (such as Mochiko)
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 (14-ounce) can unsweetened coconut milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• 1 teaspoon black sesame seeds

How to Make Mochi Muffins

Follow these steps for a delicious batch of mochi muffins:

1. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Line twelve 2 1/2-inch muffin cups with paper bake cups or grease them generously.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the rice flour, brown sugar, white sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and maple syrup until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared muffin cups, filling them nearly full.
6. Sprinkle the tops of the muffins with sesame seeds and black sesame seeds for extra flavor and crunch.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
8. Allow the muffins to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. Then, remove them from the pan and serve warm or cool completely.

Test Kitchen Tips

• This recipe is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a casual dessert.
• Find glutinous or sweet rice flour (such as Mochiko) at East and Southeast Asian markets or online.
• Depending on how high you fill the muffin cups, this recipe will yield between 12 and 16 muffins.

How to Store Mochi Muffins

Mochi muffins are best enjoyed the day theyre made. If you have leftovers, cool them completely and store them in an airtight at room temperature for up to two days.

Can You Freeze Mochi Muffins?

Yes, you can freeze mochi muffins for up to two months. To enjoy them later, thaw at room temperature or gently defrost in the microwave.

Nutrition Facts

Each serving (1 muffin) contains approximately:

• 216 Calories
• 6g Fat
• 38g Carbohydrates
• 3g Protein
• 1g Dietary Fiber
• 16g Sugars

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Mochi Muffins

Mochi muffins are a contemporary fusion of traditional Japanese mochi and Western-style baked goods. Mochi itself, a sweet, chewy rice cake made from glutinous rice, has been a staple in Japanese culture for centuries, often featured in New Year celebrations and local festivals. The idea of transforming this iconic treat into a muffin came from culinary innovators seeking to combine mochi's signature chewy texture with the familiar convenience and fluffiness of a muffin. This adaptation allows a broader audience to enjoy mochi in a portable, modern form.

Regional Variations

While mochi originated in Japan, mochi muffins have evolved differently depending on the region. In Japan, these muffins often incorporate matcha (green tea powder) or red bean paste, highlighting local flavors. In the United States and other Western countries, variations frequently use coconut milk, maple syrup, or chocolate chips to appeal to local palates. Some Hawaiian-style versions blend tropical fruits like pineapple or mango, creating a distinctively sweet and slightly tangy experience.

How Mochi Muffins Differ from Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional Western muffins, mochi muffins are made primarily with glutinous rice flour rather than wheat flour, giving them a uniquely chewy and elastic texture. Standard muffins are generally soft and fluffy, while mochi muffins maintain a moist, sticky interior without being dense. They also differ from classic Japanese mochi desserts, which are typically sticky rice cakes with fillings like red bean paste or sesame, as mochi muffins integrate Western baking techniques such as leavening agents and oven baking.

Where Mochi Muffins Are Served

Mochi muffins are versatile and can be found in various settings. They are commonly served as a breakfast item or a sweet snack at cafes and bakeries, especially those offering Asian-inspired pastries. In addition, they are popular at cultural festivals, food markets, and brunch events. Their portable size and unique texture make them an appealing option for on-the-go snacking, lunchboxes, and afternoon tea gatherings.

Interesting Facts About Mochi Muffins

• Mochi muffins retain the chewy texture of traditional mochi even after baking, which surprises many first-time eaters accustomed to ordinary muffins.
• The use of coconut milk in many recipes adds subtle creaminess and complements the natural sweetness of glutinous rice flour.
• Sprinkling sesame seeds or black sesame seeds on top not only enhances the flavor but also pays homage to traditional Japanese mochi garnishes.
• Because they combine both Japanese and Western elements, mochi muffins are often cited as a prime example of East-meets-West cuisine in modern bakeries.
• These muffins freeze exceptionally well and can be reheated without losing their characteristic chewiness, making them a convenient option for meal prepping or gifting.

FAQ about Mochi Muffins Recipe

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