Butter Mochi Muffins are a delightful dessert inspired by the famous Hawaiian butter mochi. These muffins are known for their crispy golden edges, rich buttery flavor, and soft chewy interior. Unlike traditional muffins made with wheat flour, these treats use glutinous rice flour, which gives them their signature mochi texture.
This recipe is simple to prepare and requires only a few pantry ingredients. The batter comes together quickly, making these muffins perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack.
What Are Butter Mochi Muffins?
Butter mochi is a classic dessert from Hawaii that combines elements of Japanese mochi with Western-style baking. It is typically baked in a pan and cut into squares, but in this version the batter is baked in a muffin tin.
The result is individual muffins that are slightly crispy on the outside and soft and chewy on the inside. The combination of butter, sugar, eggs, and sweet rice flour creates a rich texture that is different from traditional cakes or muffins.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Butter Mochi Muffins are popular because they are:
• Naturally gluten-free
• Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
• Chewy and soft, unlike traditional muffins
• Perfect for dessert, breakfast, or snacks
• Great for sharing or parties
Ingredients
To make about 12 butter mochi muffins, you will need the following ingredients.
- 2 cups glutinous rice flour (mochiko or sweet rice flour)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- ½ cup coconut milk (optional but adds flavor)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- shredded coconut
- sesame seeds
- chocolate chips
Kitchen Equipment
You will need:
- muffin pan (12 cups)
- mixing bowl
- whisk
- measuring cups and spoons
- spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 12-cup muffin pan with butter or cooking spray. This step is important because mochi batter can stick easily.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl combine:
- glutinous rice flour
- baking powder
- salt
Whisk everything together until evenly combined.
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl whisk together:
- melted butter
- sugar
Mix until smooth.
Then add:
- eggs
- evaporated milk
- coconut milk
- vanilla extract
Whisk until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
Stir using a whisk or spatula until the batter becomes smooth and lump-free. The batter will be thinner than traditional muffin batter.
Step 5: Fill the Muffin Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared muffin pan.
Fill each cup about ¾ full.
If desired, sprinkle toppings such as shredded coconut or sesame seeds on top.
Step 6: Bake the Muffins
Place the muffin pan in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes.
The muffins are ready when:
- the tops are lightly golden
- the edges are slightly crispy
- the center is set
Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Then transfer them to a cooling rack.
As they cool, their chewy mochi texture becomes more noticeable.
Tips for Perfect Butter Mochi Muffins
Use sweet rice flour only
Regular rice flour will not create the chewy texture needed for mochi.
Do not overbake
Overbaking can make the muffins dry. Remove them when the tops turn lightly golden.
Grease the pan well
Mochi batter can stick easily, so grease the muffin pan generously.
Let them cool
They become chewier as they cool down.
Flavor Variations
You can easily customize this recipe with different flavors.
Chocolate Chip Mochi Muffins
Add ½ cup chocolate chips to the batter.
Matcha Mochi Muffins
Mix 1–2 teaspoons of matcha powder into the dry ingredients.
Coconut Mochi Muffins
Add shredded coconut into the batter and sprinkle more on top.
Black Sesame Mochi Muffins
Add black sesame paste or ground sesame seeds for a nutty flavor.
How to Store Butter Mochi Muffins
These muffins store well and remain chewy for several days.
Room temperature
Store in an airtight container for 2–3 days.
Refrigerator
They can last up to 5 days.
Freezer
Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat briefly in the microwave before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Butter Mochi Muffins are delicious when served:
- warm with coffee or tea
- as a light dessert after dinner
- with fresh fruit on the side
- as a sweet snack during the day
Final Thoughts
Butter Mochi Muffins are a wonderful combination of buttery richness and chewy mochi texture. They are simple to make, require minimal ingredients, and are perfect for anyone who enjoys unique baked desserts.
Once you try these muffins, they may quickly become one of your favorite homemade treats.