Authentic Japanese Mochi Recipe

Japanese Mochi is a traditional rice cake made from glutinous rice flour, water, and sugar, often filled with sweet red bean paste. With its chewy texture and mildly sweet flavor, mochi is a beloved treat in Japan, especially during celebrations like New Year’s. This homemade version brings the authentic taste and texture of mochi to your kitchen with simple ingredients and classic techniques.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Authentic Japanese flavor and texture.
• Soft, chewy rice dough filled with sweet red bean paste.
• Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.
• Fun to make—great for family cooking sessions.
• Perfect as a snack, dessert, or gift.

What Is Mochi?

Mochi is a traditional Japanese confection made by steaming and pounding glutinous rice or mixing glutinous rice flour with water and sugar. The dough is then shaped into small rounds and often filled with anko (sweet red bean paste). Mochi is cherished for its stretchy, chewy consistency and is commonly enjoyed during the Japanese New Year and other festivals. While it dates back centuries, it remains a modern favorite across the globe.

Cooking Tips

• Use glutinous rice flour (mochiko)—regular rice flour won’t give the desired chewy texture.
• Steam, don’t boil—this preserves the elasticity of the dough.
• Keep your hands dusted with cornstarch to prevent sticking.
• Flatten mochi with fingers, not a rolling pin, to avoid tearing.
• Seal tightly around the filling to keep the paste from leaking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Microwave Instead of a Steamer?

Yes, microwave the mochi mixture in a heatproof bowl for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until fully cooked.

What Is the Best Substitute for Red Bean Paste?

Try fruit preserves, Nutella, or peanut butter for fun, non-traditional fillings.

Is Mochi Gluten-Free?

Yes, glutinous rice flour is naturally gluten-free despite its name.

How Long Does Mochi Stay Fresh?

Mochi is best the day it’s made, but can be stored at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerated for up to 2 days.

Can I Freeze Mochi?

Yes, wrap individually and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before eating.

How to Store

Store mochi in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours, or refrigerate for up to 2 days. To prevent sticking, lightly dust with cornstarch or wrap each piece in parchment paper.

How to Freeze

Wrap each mochi in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature until soft (about 15 minutes).

How to Make Traditional Japanese Mochi

In a heatproof bowl, whisk together glutinous rice flour and sugar. Add water and whisk until smooth and lump-free.

Place the bowl in a bamboo steamer over boiling water. Cover and steam for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the dough is thick and glossy.

Roll red bean paste into 8 balls, about 20g each. Set aside.

Transfer cooked dough to a cornstarch-dusted surface. Coat the dough with cornstarch and divide into 8 equal pieces.

Flatten each piece into a disc using your fingers.

Place a red bean ball in the center, pinch edges to seal, and roll gently into a ball.

Arrange mochi on a serving plate. Optionally, dust off excess cornstarch before serving.