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Chewy Matcha Mochi Bites Recipe

4.6 from 67 reviews

Chewy Matcha Mochi Bites are delightful Japanese-inspired treats made with glutinous rice flour and vibrant matcha powder. These bite-sized mochi balls offer a perfect balance of sweetness and earthy green tea flavor, with a tender yet chewy texture. Steamed to perfection and lightly dusted with starch, they’re an elegant snack or dessert that’s easy to make at home.

Ingredients

Scale

Mochi Dough

  • 1 cup glutinous rice flour (mochiko)
  • 1 tablespoon matcha powder
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar (or maple syrup/agave nectar as an alternative)
  • 1 cup water
  • Pinch of salt

For Dusting and Shaping

  • Cornstarch or potato starch, as needed for dusting
  • Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Mochi Dough: Sift the matcha powder and glutinous rice flour into a mixing bowl to remove lumps. Add sugar and a pinch of salt, then gradually mix in the water until the batter reaches a smooth, pancake-like consistency. Adjust thickness by adding more flour or water as needed.
  2. Steam the Mochi Dough: Bring water to a gentle simmer in a pot with a steamer insert. Pour the mochi batter into a heatproof dish that fits inside the steamer. Cover with a towel or lid to prevent condensation dripping. Steam for 30-40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes until the mochi is thick, glossy, and firm to the touch without runniness.
  3. Let the Mochi Cool: Remove the mochi from the steamer and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. Cooling slightly makes it easier and safer to handle.
  4. Shape the Mochi Bites: Dust hands and work surface with cornstarch or potato starch to prevent sticking. Scoop small portions of mochi dough and roll into bite-sized balls or roll into logs and slice into pieces. Place shaped mochi on a starch-dusted plate to avoid sticking.
  5. Dust and Serve: Lightly dust mochi bites with extra cornstarch or powdered sugar for a soft finish and to prevent sticking. Optionally mix powdered sugar and matcha powder for a sweeter coating.
  6. Enjoy: Serve immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Mochi is best eaten within a day or two to retain chewiness. Refrigerate for a firmer texture, but bring to room temperature before serving.

Notes

  • Use glutinous rice flour specifically labeled ‘mochiko’ for authentic chewy texture.
  • Adjust sweetness to your preference or use alternative sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar.
  • Keep mochi dusted well with starch to prevent stickiness when shaping and storing.
  • Steaming time and stirring are important to achieve a smooth, fully cooked dough.
  • Mochi bites lose chewiness if stored too long; best enjoyed fresh.
  • Handle mochi with oiled or starch-dusted hands to prevent sticking while shaping.

Keywords: matcha mochi, chewy mochi bites, Japanese dessert, steamed mochi, glutinous rice flour desserts, green tea treats