Name: Hawaiian Butter Mochi: Sweet, Chewy, and Delicious Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 1 pound glutinous rice flour; 2 cups white sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1.5 cups coconut milk; 1.5 cups whole milk; 4 eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes (adjust to taste)

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If you have a craving for a treat that perfectly balances sweet and chewy textures, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Hawaiian Butter Mochi: Sweet, Chewy, and Delicious Recipe. This iconic dessert from the islands boasts a unique, melt-in-your-mouth chewiness that comes from glutinous rice flour, enriched with the tropical creaminess of coconut milk and a buttery finish. Whether you’re making it for a gathering, a special occasion, or a cozy night in, this mochi will dazzle your taste buds and leave you coming back for more with its simple yet irresistible flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several baking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. There is a big white bag of glutinous rice flour with green text on it, a silver can of coconut milk lying on its side, and a small white bowl with four brown eggs inside. A large white bowl is filled with fine white sugar, while a smaller white plate holds a block of pale yellow butter. Next to these is a dark brown bowl full of shredded white coconut, a small clear glass bowl containing white powder, likely baking powder, a small white bowl with a light brown liquid, and another small white bowl with a pinch of white salt. A white bowl with a blue pattern around the rim contains a white liquid, probably coconut milk or cream. All items are organized and clearly visible with natural lighting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering your ingredients for this recipe is delightfully straightforward, yet each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect texture and flavor that make this Hawaiian Butter Mochi: Sweet, Chewy, and Delicious Recipe so memorable. From the sticky glutinous rice flour to the luscious coconut milk and smooth butter, these ingredients combine for a truly indulgent experience.

Glutinous rice flour: The key to that signature chewy texture everyone loves in mochi.
White sugar: Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the edges, giving a lovely golden hue.
Baking powder: Provides just enough lift to keep the mochi slightly airy without losing chewiness.
Unsalted butter: Adds a rich, buttery flavor that balances the sweetness.
Coconut milk: Infuses tropical creaminess and moisture, enhancing the mochi’s tender bite.
Whole milk: Works alongside coconut milk to create a smooth batter base.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the mochi’s structure.
Salt: A small pinch to enhance all the flavors harmoniously.
Vanilla extract: Adds a fragrant sweetness that complements the coconut perfectly.
Sweetened coconut flakes: Optional but highly recommended for added texture and bursts of coconut flavor.

How to Make Hawaiian Butter Mochi: Sweet, Chewy, and Delicious Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper—this ensures your mochi will come out effortlessly after baking without sticking or breaking apart.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the glutinous rice flour, white sugar, and baking powder. Take your time here to eliminate lumps and blend these essentials well. This step ensures an even texture in your mochi batter so every bite will be smooth and consistent.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk melted unsalted butter, whole milk, coconut milk, eggs, salt, and vanilla extract until everything is wonderfully incorporated. This luscious mixture will bring richness and depth to your mochi’s flavor and texture.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a spoon or spatula. Mix until the batter is smooth and free of dry pockets. This careful blending is crucial to achieving the perfect mochi consistency that’s soft but chewy.

Step 5: Pour and Add Coconut Flakes

Pour your batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. To avoid air bubbles, give the pan a gentle tap on the counter. If you love a little extra texture, sprinkle sweetened coconut flakes over the top now for an inviting crunch once baked.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Set

Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for a full hour. You’ll know your mochi is done when the top turns a beautiful golden brown, the edges crisp slightly, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The center should still have a slight jiggle — this means it’s moist and perfectly chewy.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Allow your mochi to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. When it’s cooled enough to handle, use a plastic knife for clean, easy slices. The mochi is delicious served at room temperature or chilled, with an extra sprinkle of coconut flakes if you’re feeling fancy.

How to Serve Hawaiian Butter Mochi: Sweet, Chewy, and Delicious Recipe

A rectangular clear glass baking dish filled with one thick, even layer of golden brown baked cornbread. The top has a slightly rough texture with some small cracks and toasted shredded bits scattered on the surface. The edges are a little darker and crispier than the center. The dish is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk for an indulgent finish. These simple touches elevate the flavor and add a lovely visual appeal that makes sharing even more delightful.

Side Dishes

This mochi pairs beautifully with tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, or passion fruit sorbet. Fresh, light accompaniments balance the mochi’s richness and create a vibrant Hawaiian-inspired dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve mochi squares on skewers with alternating pieces of fresh fruit or layer small mochi cubes between scoops of coconut ice cream to create mochi parfaits. Presentation is a joy with such a versatile dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover mochi keeps wonderfully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. You can also refrigerate it to extend freshness for about 5 days—just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best chew.

Freezing

Want to save mochi for longer? Freeze individual slices in airtight freezer bags for up to one month. Thaw them overnight in the fridge and let them come to room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

Warm mochi gently in a microwave for 15 to 20 seconds to revive its soft, chewy texture. Avoid overheating as this can dry it out. A quick warm-up brings back that freshly baked feel any time!

FAQs

What makes this Hawaiian Butter Mochi different from regular mochi?

This version uses butter and coconut milk for a richer, more buttery flavor and a uniquely chewy yet tender texture, distinguishing it from traditional mochi which is often denser and less sweet.

Can I use regular rice flour instead of glutinous rice flour?

Glutinous rice flour is essential for that classic chewy texture. Using regular rice flour will result in a crumbly and dry mochi that lacks the characteristic bounce.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Since it uses glutinous rice flour (which is naturally gluten-free), this recipe is safe for those avoiding gluten, just make sure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

How long does Hawaiian Butter Mochi last at room temperature?

It’s best enjoyed within two days when kept at room temperature in an airtight container, because it can dry out over time. Refrigerate for longer storage.

Can I add other flavors or mix-ins to this recipe?

Definitely! You can fold in chocolate chips, macadamia nuts, or even matcha powder for creative variations. Just be mindful not to overpower the delicate coconut and butter flavors.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Hawaiian Butter Mochi: Sweet, Chewy, and Delicious Recipe a try. Its warm, buttery sweetness combined with that chewy texture is an absolute joy to make and share. Once you experience the magic in every bite, this mochi will surely hold a special spot in your dessert repertoire. Let the flavors of the islands brighten your kitchen and delight your loved ones!