Hawaiian Butter Mochi is a beloved treat that blends the soft, chewy texture of mochi with the rich, buttery flavor that many find irresistible. Originating from Hawaii, this dessert is a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and festive occasions, offering a delightful fusion of traditional Japanese mochi and local Hawaiian influences. The use of mochiko flour, a sweet glutinous rice flour, gives this dessert its characteristic chewy texture, while the addition of coconut milk adds a tropical twist, making each bite a unique experience.
The preparation of Hawaiian Butter Mochi is surprisingly straightforward, making it accessible even for those who may not be seasoned bakers. The ingredients are simple and readily available, yet they come together to create something truly special. The recipe starts with basic pantry staples like eggs, sugar, and butter, combined with coconut milk for that signature tropical flavor. The process of mixing and baking is uncomplicated, but the result is a dessert that's sure to impress.
This recipe is versatile, allowing for some substitutions and adjustments based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For example, if coconut milk isn't available, you can easily substitute it with whole milk or a mix of milk and coconut milk to achieve the desired consistency and flavor. The baking process requires patience, as the mochi needs to bake for over an hour to achieve the perfect golden top and chewy interior, but the effort is well worth it when you bite into this delightful dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated cane sugar
- 2 cups coconut milk (see notes below)
- ¼ cup melted salted butter (and a bit of solid butter to grease the pan)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz mochiko flour (sweet glutinous rice flour)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder (double-acting)
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Butter an 8x6-inch baking pan, ensuring that all sides are well-greased. For easy removal later, place parchment paper on the bottom and sides of the pan.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, sugar, coconut milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated, ensuring a smooth, consistent mixture.
3. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the mochiko flour and baking powder to the wet mixture. Stir until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
4. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely. Once cooled, lift the mochi out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into 12 squares using a sharp knife, and your Hawaiian Butter Mochi is ready to serve.
Conclusion
Hawaiian Butter Mochi is a dessert that beautifully captures the essence of Hawaii with its unique blend of flavors and textures. Whether you're enjoying it as a snack, dessert, or as part of a festive celebration, this treat is sure to bring a smile to your face. The recipe's simplicity and versatility make it a great addition to your baking repertoire, allowing you to experiment with flavors and enjoy a taste of Hawaii from the comfort of your own home.