why make this recipe
This mochi is soft, sweet, and ready without baking. It uses a creamy custard center and a chewy mochi shell. It is quick to make and fun to eat. If you like fruity treats, try the mango-strawberry smoothie recipe as a drink to pair with it.
introduction
Strawberry No-bake Mochi is a small round dessert with a sweet custard inside a chewy pink mochi skin. You can make it at home with simple ingredients. It looks pretty and tastes fresh. Kids and adults both enjoy it.
how to make Strawberry No-bake Mochi
Make the custard first so it cools and firms. Make the mochi dough in the microwave and keep it soft. Freeze small custard balls a short time so they hold their shape. Wrap each custard ball with a mochi piece, seal well, and dust with starch.
Ingredients :
FOR THE MOCHI DOUGH, 2 cups sweet glutinous rice flour (mochiko), 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 1/2 cups water, 4–5 drops strawberry extract (optional), 3–4 drops pink food coloring (optional), FOR THE CUSTARD FILLING, 2 cups whole milk, 4 large egg yolks, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 3 tbsp cornstarch, 2 tsp vanilla extract, 2 tbsp unsalted butter, EXTRAS, Potato starch or cornstarch (for dusting)
Directions :
PREPARE THE CUSTARD FILLING: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually add the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Place the pan over medium heat and stir continuously until the mixture thickens, about 5–6 minutes. Once it reaches a pudding-like consistency, remove it from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and butter until fully incorporated. Transfer the custard to a bowl, cover it with plastic wrap (pressing the wrap against the surface to prevent a skin from forming), and refrigerate until firm., MAKE THE MOCHI DOUGH: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the sweet rice flour, sugar, and water. Stir until smooth. If using strawberry extract or pink food coloring, mix them in now. Cover the bowl loosely with plastic wrap and microwave the mixture for 1 minute. Stir thoroughly and repeat this process three more times, stirring after each interval, until the dough becomes thick, shiny, and slightly translucent. Transfer the dough to a surface generously dusted with potato starch and let it cool slightly, ensuring it does not dry out., ASSEMBLE THE MOCHI: Divide the chilled custard into 20 small balls and freeze them for about 15 minutes to make handling easier. Divide the mochi dough into 20 equal portions and flatten each piece into a circle about 3 inches in diameter. Place a custard ball in the center of each mochi circle, then pinch the edges together to seal, ensuring the filling stays enclosed. Gently roll each piece into a smooth ball. Lightly dust the finished mochi with potato starch to prevent sticking.
how to serve Strawberry No-bake Mochi
Serve chilled or at room temperature. Place mochi on a plate with a dusting of potato starch removed with a light brush. They pair well with tea or a cold fruity drink. Eat within a few hours for best texture.
how to store Strawberry No-bake Mochi
Keep mochi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If you need to store longer, freeze them on a tray until firm, then place in a sealed bag for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before eating. Note: freezing can change the mochi texture slightly.
tips to make Strawberry No-bake Mochi
- Dust your hands and work surface well with potato starch to stop sticking.
- Keep the mochi covered while you work so it does not dry out.
- Chill custard balls so they are easier to wrap.
- If mochi tears, wet your fingers lightly and press to seal.
- Use small scoops or a scale to make equal pieces.
variation (if any)
- Fill with fresh strawberry pieces mixed into the custard for more fruit flavor.
- Use matcha powder in the dough for a green tea version.
- Swap vanilla custard for chocolate custard for a different taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the custard ahead?
A: Yes. Make it a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge.
Q: Can I use frozen strawberries inside?
A: Avoid using frozen fruit directly; it can add water. Thaw and drain fruit first.
Q: Is mochiko the same as regular rice flour?
A: No. Mochiko is sweet glutinous rice flour. It gives a chewy texture.
Q: Can I steam the mochi dough instead of microwaving?
A: Yes. You can steam the mixed dough for about 15 minutes until thick, then knead until smooth.
Strawberry No-bake Mochi
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dessert featuring a creamy custard center wrapped in a colorful, chewy mochi shell. Ideal for those who enjoy fruity sweets without the need for baking.
Ingredients
- 2 cups sweet glutinous rice flour (mochiko)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 4–5 drops strawberry extract (optional)
- 3–4 drops pink food coloring (optional)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Potato starch or cornstarch (for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare the custard filling: In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually add milk while whisking constantly. Heat on medium, stirring until thickened, about 5–6 minutes. Stir in vanilla extract and butter. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm.
- Make the mochi dough: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine sweet rice flour, sugar, and water, stirring until smooth. If using extract or food coloring, mix them in. Cover loosely and microwave for 1 minute, stirring after each minute until thick and translucent.
- Assemble the mochi: Divide chilled custard into 20 small balls and freeze for 15 minutes. Divide mochi dough into 20 portions, flatten each into a 3-inch circle. Place a custard ball in the center, seal edges, and roll into a ball. Dust finished mochi with potato starch.
Notes
Serve chilled or at room temperature. Best eaten within a few hours. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
