Butter Mochi Cake is a beloved Hawaiian dessert that blends the chewy texture of traditional Japanese mochi with the rich flavors of butter and coconut. This fusion results in a unique, glutinous rice cake that’s both satisfyingly dense and delectably sweet. Often enjoyed during gatherings and celebrations, Butter Mochi Cake has become a staple in Hawaiian cuisine, reflecting the islands’ diverse cultural influences.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 pound mochiko (glutinous rice flour)
• 2 ½ cups white sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cups whole milk
• 5 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup sweetened, flaked coconut

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the mochi doesn’t stick.

2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients

   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, and milk until well combined.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients

   • In a separate larger bowl, mix the mochiko, sugar, and baking powder thoroughly.

4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients Together

   • Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring continuously until a smooth batter forms.

5. Incorporate Butter and Coconut

   • Stir in the melted butter and flaked coconut, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

6. Bake the Mochi

   • Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Cool and Serve

   • Allow the mochi to cool completely in the pan before cutting it into squares. This ensures the cake sets properly and achieves the desired chewy texture.

Nutrients

Per Serving (1 piece):

• Calories: 463 kcal
• Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 104mg
• Sodium: 156mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 78g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 47g
• Protein: 7g
• Calcium: 104mg
• Iron: 1mg
• Potassium: 170mg

The Origins of Butter Mochi Cake

Butter Mochi Cake originates from Hawaii, a melting pot of different cultures, including Japanese, Filipino, Portuguese, and American influences. The use of mochiko flour in this dessert is inspired by Japanese mochi, a chewy rice cake made from glutinous rice. However, unlike traditional Japanese mochi, which is often plain or filled with sweet red bean paste, Butter Mochi Cake incorporates butter, sugar, eggs, and coconut milk, making it richer and more indulgent.

The dessert became popular in Hawaii due to its simplicity, affordability, and delicious taste. Over time, families have developed their own variations, some adding shredded coconut, vanilla extract, or even chocolate chips to enhance the flavor. It is commonly served at parties, potlucks, and special occasions, where its soft and chewy texture makes it a standout treat.

What Makes Butter Mochi Cake Unique?

Butter Mochi Cake stands out from other desserts due to its texture and flavor. Here are some key characteristics that make it unique:

• Chewy and Soft Texture: The use of mochiko flour gives the cake its signature chewiness, similar to Japanese mochi but slightly firmer.
• Rich Buttery Flavor: Unlike traditional mochi, this cake is enhanced with butter, which provides a rich, smooth taste.
• Crispy Crust: When baked, the top layer of Butter Mochi Cake forms a slightly crisp and golden crust, adding a delightful contrast to the soft interior.
• Subtle Sweetness: The sweetness level is balanced, making it enjoyable without being overly sugary.
• Tropical Coconut Notes: Many versions of Butter Mochi Cake include coconut milk, which enhances the overall flavor with a hint of tropical richness.

Ways to Enjoy Butter Mochi Cake

Butter Mochi Cake is delicious on its own, but there are several ways to elevate this dessert:

• Serve Warm: Freshly baked Butter Mochi Cake has a slightly crispy crust and a soft, warm interior. Serving it fresh out of the oven enhances the flavors.
• Top with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream pairs beautifully with the chewy texture of the mochi cake.
• Drizzle with Caramel or Chocolate Sauce: Adding a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce can give this traditional dessert a gourmet touch.
• Sprinkle with Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate sweetness and enhances the presentation.
• Pair with Coffee or Tea: The subtle sweetness of Butter Mochi Cake makes it a great companion for coffee or tea, especially green tea or black coffee.

Health Benefits of Butter Mochi Cake

While Butter Mochi Cake is an indulgent treat, it does offer some nutritional benefits due to its ingredients:

• Gluten-Free Alternative: Since it is made with mochiko flour instead of wheat flour, Butter Mochi Cake is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Provides Energy: Glutinous rice flour is a great source of carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy.
• Rich in Healthy Fats: Coconut milk contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are known for their potential benefits in supporting metabolism and brain health.
• Contains Essential Minerals: Eggs provide protein, vitamins, and minerals, while coconut milk is a good source of potassium and magnesium.

Common Variations of Butter Mochi Cake

Over the years, people have developed creative variations of the classic Butter Mochi Cake. Here are some popular adaptations:

• Chocolate Butter Mochi: Cocoa powder or chocolate chips are added to the batter for a rich, chocolatey twist.
• Mango Butter Mochi: Pureed mango is mixed into the batter for a fruity, tropical flavor.
• Ube Butter Mochi: Ube (purple yam) is incorporated into the recipe, giving the cake a vibrant purple color and a slightly nutty, vanilla-like taste.
• Matcha Butter Mochi: A touch of matcha green tea powder is added to the batter for an earthy, slightly bitter contrast to the sweetness.
• Lilikoi (Passionfruit) Butter Mochi: A Hawaiian-inspired variation that includes passionfruit juice for a tangy, citrusy flavor.

Why Butter Mochi Cake is Perfect for Any Occasion

Butter Mochi Cake is a versatile dessert that fits any occasion. It is often prepared for:

• Family Gatherings and Potlucks: Its easy-to-share format makes it ideal for large gatherings.
• Birthday Celebrations: Some people decorate Butter Mochi Cake with whipped cream and sprinkles to make it a festive treat.
• Holidays and Festive Events: Butter Mochi Cake is popular during Christmas, New Year’s, and other celebrations.
• Quick Everyday Treats: Since it stays fresh for a few days, it can be enjoyed as a snack throughout the week.

Tips for the Perfect Butter Mochi Cake

To achieve the best texture and flavor, follow these tips:

• Use High-Quality Mochiko Flour: The texture of Butter Mochi Cake relies heavily on the quality of the rice flour. Look for premium mochiko brands.
• Do Not Overbake: Overbaking can dry out the cake. Remove it from the oven as soon as the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Let It Cool Before Slicing: The cake needs time to set after baking, so allow it to cool before cutting to ensure clean slices.
• Store Properly: Butter Mochi Cake can be stored at room temperature for a day or refrigerated for longer freshness. Reheat in the microwave for a softer texture.

Conclusion

Butter Mochi Cake is a unique and delicious Hawaiian dessert that showcases the perfect blend of Asian and Western influences. With its rich buttery flavor, chewy texture, and crispy golden crust, it has become a beloved treat in many households. Its simplicity, versatility, and naturally gluten-free nature make it a fantastic dessert choice for any occasion.