This simple and not-to-sweet dessert is perfect for any time you want a dense, chewy cake. And even better, they’re gluten-free!

We’ve still got a few weeks left until the official last day of summer.

And I, Nanette don’t know about you, but I’m determined to make these next few weeks as summery and fun as possible!

It helps that here in San Francisco, summer has only just begun, and the days are heating up!

To celebrate, I’m whipping up these sweet mochi cakes. They have a dense, chewy texture that reminds me of my childhood eating mochi ice cream.

If you don’t know what I’m talking about, you better get your tush to the closest Asian grocery store and try some!

This would be a great dessert to serve at your next birthday party or tea party.

Meanwhile… you can work on this scrumptious mini mochi cake recipe…

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Table of Contents

What Is Mochi Cake?

Mochi cake is a traditional Japanese rice pastry. It’s composed of glutinous sweet flour rice, so this dessert is gluten-free!

It’s gooey on the inside and crispy outside. There are many types of mochi cakes. Hawaiian butter mochi cake is probably one of the most popular.

You may also see extra dry ingredients added to the recipe, such as shredded coconut, matcha powder, cocoa powder, or even black sesame.

However, I wanted to create a quick and easy mochi recipe with simple ingredients!

Ingredients Needed To Make Mochi Cake

Koda Farms Mochiko flour — Or any gluttonous sweet rice flour. Koda Farms is our favorite mochiko brand, which can be purchased in-store or online.

For another great glutinous sweet rice flour version, Bob Red Mills is another great option.

Strawberry milk — You can substitute strawberry milk for regular milk. But the strawberry adds a very subtle sweetness, and it’s our fun twist. It can be found at most major grocery stores. Traditionally, unsweetened coconut milk is also and can be used.

Sugar

Eggs

Butter

Vanilla extract

Confectioner’s sugar — For dusting

Materials Needed to Make a Mochi Cake

– Mini cupcake pan

– Large mixing bowl

– Whisk

Butter Mochi Recipe | How To Make Mini Mochi Cakes

Step 1 — Start off by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F.

Step 2 — Grease your mini cupcake pan (or whatever pan you’d like to use).

Step 3 — In a large bowl, mix your wet ingredients (butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and milk). Slowly pour in the rice flour while continuously mixing with the other hand. It may look a little lumpy but continue to whisk, and it’ll smooth out.

Step 4 — Pour the batter into the greased baking pan.

Step 5 — Bake for about 30 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned and a toothpick comes out clear.

Step 6 — Cool completely at room temperature. Dust with confectioner’s sugar and enjoy!!

How to Store Mini Mochi Cakes and How Long Will It Keep

Store the mini mochi cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

You can also refrigerate them for up to a week. However, they do dry out a bit in the fridge, so pop them in the microwave before serving.

You can freeze mochi cakes in the freezer. They’ll keep for a month. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container with a layer of parchment paper or a freezer storage bag.

I like to individually wrap them in the freezer so that I can take one out and pop it in the microwave for a quick snack.

What Drinks Go Well with Mochi Cake

Mochi cakes are light and sweet, so they pair nicely with various drinks.

Options like matcha latte and black tea are popular choices for those looking to enjoy their mochi cake alongside something hot and savory.

For something cooler and sweeter, try a fruit smoothie, iced tea, or frappuccino.

Mochi cakes also pair great with a sparkling soda or even an alcoholic beverage like sake or shochu, or you can try this Peach Iced Tea Cocktail Recipe.

No matter what type of drink you choose, it’s sure to bring the perfect balance to your next mochi cake experience.

More Mini Desserts to Try

We love mini desserts. And who desserts? You always feel less guilty eating them! For more mini dessert recipes, check out some of our favorites from the archives —

Mini Mochi Cakes