There’s something enchanting about the texture of Hawaiian Butter Mochi—its delightfully chewy consistency is like a warm hug from the islands. The moment I take a bite, I’m transported to sun-kissed shores, where waves lull and the scent of coconut fills the air. This delightful dessert is not just a sweet treat; it’s a celebration of flavors that invites everyone to indulge.
I first stumbled upon this gem during one of my culinary quests to bring a slice of the tropics into my kitchen. It quickly became my go-to dish whenever I crave something unique and comforting. Trust me; it’s a breeze to whip up! With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a decadent dish that’s sure to impress friends and family. From weeknight desserts to potluck standouts, Hawaiian Butter Mochi is the perfect solution to level up your baking game.
So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this irresistible, coconut-filled delight!
Why is Hawaiian Butter Mochi so special?
Irresistible texture: The delightful chewiness of this treat will have you reaching for seconds.
Coconut bliss: Rich coconut milk brings tropical vibes right into your home cooking.
Quick to whip up: With just 10 minutes of prep, you can have this gem in the oven in no time!
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this dessert is sure to impress family and friends alike. For more tropical inspirations, check out my delicious coconut dessert collection.
Versatile serving: Slice it into squares or bake in muffin tins for easy, portable treats!
Hawaiian Butter Mochi Ingredients
For the Batter
• 3 cups glutinous rice flour – Also known as Mochiko flour, it gives that signature chewy texture.
• 1 cup white granulated sugar – Sweetens the mochi and balances the rich coconut flavor.
• 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder – Helps the batter rise to achieve a light fluffiness.
• ⅛ teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavors of this Hawaiian Butter Mochi.
For the Liquid Mixture
• 400 ml coconut milk – Use canned coconut milk for a creamy, tropical essence; both light and whole fat options work well.
• 1 ½ cup water – Helps to create the perfect mochi consistency.
• 7 tablespoon butter – Melted and cooled, this adds richness and a buttery flavor.
• 3 large eggs – Binds everything together and contributes to the soft texture.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Infuses a warm depth that complements the coconut perfectly.
Dive into these ingredients, and soon you’ll be savoring a slice of delightful Hawaiian Butter Mochi that you’ll want to make again and again!
How to Make Hawaiian Butter Mochi
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Preheat the oven: Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a deep 9 x 9 seamless baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to make removal easier.
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Sift dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift the glutinous rice flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt together. Whisk everything until well combined, ensuring the dry mixture is lump-free.
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Mix wet ingredients: In another bowl, blend the coconut milk, water, and melted butter. Add the eggs last to avoid cooking them with the warm butter. Stir everything until fully incorporated.
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Combine mixtures: Gently pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Whisk until you have a smooth, lump-free batter, giving it a delightful velvety texture.
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Pour the batter: Now, pour your luscious batter into the prepared baking dish or muffin tin, spreading it evenly to ensure even baking.
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Bake to perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 60-65 minutes in a baking pan or 40-45 minutes in a muffin tin. It’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean—golden and fragrant!
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Cool and slice: Once baked, transfer the Hawaiian Butter Mochi to a wire rack to cool completely. Use a wet knife to slice into squares, making it easy to serve and enjoy.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of shredded coconut for an extra tropical touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Butter Mochi
Room Temperature: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps maintain the mochi’s delightful texture.
Fridge: If you’d like to extend its shelf life, refrigerate Hawaiian Butter Mochi in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Just remember, it may become slightly denser.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: To enjoy your mochi warm, reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This way, you’ll revive its soft, chewy goodness just like fresh out of the oven!
Expert Tips for Hawaiian Butter Mochi
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and coconut milk are fresh for the best rise and flavor, enhancing your Hawaiian Butter Mochi’s texture.
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Whisk Gently: Mix the wet and dry ingredients carefully to avoid overworking the batter, which can result in a dense rather than chewy finish.
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Adjust Baking Time: Ovens can vary! Keep an eye on your mochi during baking. Check for doneness a few minutes early, especially if using a muffin tin.
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Cooling is Key: Allow the mochi to cool completely before slicing. A wet knife helps create clean cuts, making your treats look as delicious as they taste.
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Experiment with Flavors: Try infusing different flavors, like macadamia nuts or pineapple, for a personalized twist on this traditional Hawaiian Butter Mochi!
Hawaiian Butter Mochi Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this delightful dessert to suit your taste or dietary needs!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute melted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter for a plant-based treat that’s just as scrumptious.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of glutinous rice flour for a unique twist while maintaining the chewy texture.
- Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of almond extract for a nutty aroma that complements the tropical coconut flavor beautifully.
- Fruity Twist: Stir in chopped pineapple or mango for a refreshing fruit component that brightens every bite.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in toasted macadamia nuts for a delightful crunch and an authentic Hawaiian experience, bringing an enjoyable texture contrast.
- Chocolate Delight: Drizzle melted chocolate on top of the cooled mochi for a rich and indulgent finish that elevates this beloved treat.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili powder to the batter for a surprising and exciting heat that will tingle your taste buds.
- Mini Mochi: Bake the batter in mini muffin tins for bite-sized delights perfect for parties or gatherings—an easy, shareable way to enjoy Hawaii’s flavors.
Make Ahead Options
Hawaiian Butter Mochi is ideal for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the dry and wet ingredients separately and refrigerate the wet mixture until you’re ready to bake. This will keep the flavors fresh and vibrant. Alternatively, you can bake the mochi ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. Just ensure it’s completely cooled before storing to maintain its delightful chewiness. When you’re ready to serve, simply slice and enjoy, or warm it slightly in the microwave for that fresh-baked feel. Embrace these make-ahead tips for a wonderfully convenient treat!
What to Serve with Hawaiian Butter Mochi?
Dive into a tropical experience as you pair this luscious dessert with delectable sides that elevate your meal.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet, chewy mochi. The brightness of citrus or the sweetness of pineapple enhances the tropical vibe.
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Coconut Cream Topping: A dollop of rich coconut cream on top delivers an extra layer of indulgence. Its silky texture complements the mochi beautifully, creating a harmonious flavor experience.
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Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee or a smooth espresso balance the sweetness of Hawaiian Butter Mochi. This pairing offers a delightful contrast that makes for a well-rounded dessert experience.
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Matcha Green Tea: The earthy notes of matcha provide a lovely contrast to the sweetness of mochi. Its unique flavor profile invites tantalizing intrigue and balances your dessert table wonderfully.
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Macadamia Nut Ice Cream: Creamy macadamia nut ice cream adds an extra layer of richness, perfectly harmonizing with the lovely coconut notes in the mochi. The crunch of nuts creates satisfying texture contrasts.
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Shaved Ice with Syrup: For a truly Hawaiian touch, consider serving the mochi alongside a refreshing bowl of shaved ice drizzled with sweet syrup. It’s an inviting way to cool down and enjoy delightful summer flavors together.
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Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: This classic tropical dessert echoes the mochi’s flavors and texture while adding a fun visual presentation. A slice of cake alongside elicits smiles and ooohs at every gathering!
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Sparkling Water with Lime: Light and zesty, a glass of sparkling water with a splash of lime refreshes the palate after each bite of sweet mochi. It’s the simple finishing touch to complete this exciting tropical meal!
Hawaiian Butter Mochi Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right glutinous rice flour for my Hawaiian Butter Mochi?
Absolutely! When selecting glutinous rice flour, look for packages labeled “Mochiko” as it’s specifically made for making mochi. Ensure it’s finely ground with a smooth texture and check for any signs of moisture. If you find any clumps, it could impact the chewiness of your butter mochi.
What’s the best way to store leftover Hawaiian Butter Mochi?
To keep your mochi fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to extend its life, transfer it to the refrigerator where it can last up to 5 days. Just keep in mind that refrigeration might alter its texture slightly, making it denser but still enjoyable!
Can I freeze Hawaiian Butter Mochi? If so, how?
Definitely! Freezing is a great way to save leftovers. Wrap individual pieces of Hawaiian Butter Mochi in plastic wrap, ensuring they are tightly sealed. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply place them in the fridge overnight. When you’re ready to enjoy, heat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to bring back that delightful softness.
How do I troubleshoot if my Hawaiian Butter Mochi turns out too dense?
Very! If your mochi ends up dense, it could be due to overmixing the batter or excessive baking time. To prevent this, remember to mix wet and dry ingredients until just combined for that perfect chewiness. Also, be sure to check your mochi a few minutes before the recommended baking time; you want it just set, not overcooked.
Is Hawaiian Butter Mochi safe for people with gluten allergies?
Absolutely! Since the main ingredient, glutinous rice flour (Mochiko), is naturally gluten-free, Hawaiian Butter Mochi can be a delightful treat for those avoiding gluten. However, it’s important to double-check that all your other ingredients, like vanilla extract and baking powder, are also gluten-free to ensure no cross-contamination.
Irresistibly Soft Hawaiian Butter Mochi Recipe You Must Try
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking pan by greasing it or lining with parchment paper.
- Sift the glutinous rice flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt together in a large bowl and whisk until well combined.
- In another bowl, blend the coconut milk, water, and melted butter, then add the eggs and stir until fully incorporated.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and whisk until a smooth batter forms.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish or muffin tin, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 60-65 minutes in a baking pan or 40-45 minutes in a muffin tin until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool on a wire rack completely before slicing into squares with a wet knife.
