Lemon Mochi is the perfect blend of chewy mochi texture and citrusy lemon flavor. This simple yet refreshing dessert uses glutinous rice flour, creamy lemon custard filling, and a hint of zest to awaken your taste buds. Whether you’re craving a summer treat or an all-season citrus twist, this recipe is a must-try. Looking for inspiration? Try our lemon truffles recipe for another citrus favorite.
📝 Ingredients
For the Lemon Custard Filling:
- 2 egg yolks
- 30 g lemon juice
- 45 g granulated sugar
- 15 g cornstarch
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 150 g milk
- 200 g cream cheese (softened)
- 10 g granulated sugar
- 150 g heavy cream
- 5 g vanilla extract
For the Mochi Dough:
- 100 g glutinous rice flour
- 35 g cornstarch
- 45 g granulated sugar
- 180 g milk
- 15 g vegetable oil
🥣 Instructions
Step 1: Make the Lemon Custard
- Whisk together egg yolks, 45g sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and vanilla.
- Simmer milk with lemon zest. Slowly mix it into the yolk blend while whisking.
- Return everything to the pan, heat until thickened, and cool.
Step 2: Blend the Creamy Filling
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese with 10g sugar until smooth.
- Add in cooled lemon custard and heavy cream.
- Beat with a hand mixer until thick and pipeable.
- Transfer into a piping bag and refrigerate.
Step 3: Prepare the Mochi Dough
- Mix glutinous rice flour, cornstarch, sugar, milk, and oil in a bowl.
- Pour into a nonstick pan and cook over medium heat, stirring until it forms a sticky dough ball.
- Let it cool slightly and knead on a floured surface.
Step 4: Fill and Shape the Mochi
- Divide the dough into 12 equal parts and flatten into rounds.
- Pipe lemon filling into the center, seal, and roll gently.
- Place in cupcake liners and chill or serve fresh.
Note: Half the lemon custard mixture is enough for 12 mochi. Reduce the filling if needed to avoid leftovers.

🍋 Pro Tips
Tip | Description |
---|---|
Flour Type | Use glutinous rice flour, not regular rice flour. |
Texture Fix | If dough feels stiff, knead in a bit of milk until soft. |
Serving | Best served chilled. Sprinkle lightly with cornstarch to reduce stickiness. |
Related Delicious Ideas
- Don’t miss our lemon cheesecake creamy zesty dessert
- Discover great ideas like healthy strawberry mochi
- Check out this fruity twist: banana mochi
- Learn more about durian mochi if you’re feeling adventurous