Mochi Muffins

These Mochi Muffins have the perfect combination of chewiness and softness that makes them utterly irresistible. Made with glutinous rice flour, they offer a unique texture that’s distinct from regular muffins. The subtle sweetness and slight coconut flavor from the coconut milk give these muffins a delicious twist that’s perfect for any occasion.

Serve them at brunch or as an afternoon snack. These muffins can easily be paired with a hot cup of tea or coffee. They’re also naturally gluten-free, making them a great option for those who are looking for a tasty treat that fits their dietary needs. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, so you can enjoy them fresh out of the oven in just 30 minutes!

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup glutinous rice flour

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup cornstarch

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup whole milk

• 1/4 cup coconut milk (optional for extra flavor)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin tin or line with paper liners.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the glutinous rice flour, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.

3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until well combined.

4. Stir in the melted butter, vanilla extract, whole milk, and coconut milk (if using).

5. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth and fully incorporated.

6. Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.

7. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Allow the muffins to cool slightly before removing them from the tin.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes Kcal: 170 kcal | Servings: 12 muffins

What Makes Mochi Muffins Special?

What sets mochi muffins apart from your average muffin is the use of sweet rice flour (also known as glutinous rice flour), which provides a unique chewy texture. The use of coconut milk adds a creamy richness to the muffins, while the warm flavor of maple syrup enhances the sweetness. The combination of both white and brown sugars gives the muffins a perfect balance of flavor, neither too sweet nor too bland.

Mochi muffins are not only delicious but also versatile, serving as a great addition to your breakfast spread, an afternoon snack, or a light dessert. Their chewy texture makes them stand out from regular muffins, which are often light and fluffy but lack the satisfying chewiness that makes these treats so unique.

The Key Ingredients in Mochi Muffins

Mochi Muffins feature a range of ingredients that contribute to their distinct flavor and texture. Sweet rice flour (also known as mochiko flour) is the primary ingredient that gives these muffins their chewy consistency. The use of coconut milk, which is rich and smooth, creates a velvety texture, while the eggs and butter provide moisture, ensuring the muffins are soft and tender. A dash of vanilla extract and maple syrup adds depth to the flavor, making these muffins comforting and indulgent.

Although these muffins are primarily made with gluten-free ingredients, it’s essential to note that they do contain eggs and butter, making them unsuitable for those following a dairy-free or vegan diet. However, substitutions like plant-based butter and egg replacers can be made if needed.

How to Make Mochi Muffins

To make mochi muffins, you will need to whisk together the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet ingredients in another. Once the wet and dry ingredients are mixed together, pour the batter into prepared muffin cups. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for an added flavor and texture boost. Then, bake the muffins until a toothpick comes out clean. The process is straightforward, making this recipe perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers.

Mochi muffins bake in about 20 minutes, which is significantly shorter than most traditional muffin recipes, allowing you to enjoy these treats with minimal waiting. The result is a batch of golden, slightly crisp muffins on the outside and tender and chewy on the inside.

Test Kitchen Tips for Perfect Mochi Muffins

Test kitchen experts recommend the following tips to ensure your mochi muffins come out perfect:

• Ideal for Any Time of Day: Mochi Muffins make an excellent breakfast, snack, or casual dessert. They are simple to make and perfect for when you need something quick but flavorful.

• Finding Sweet Rice Flour: If you’re unsure where to find sweet rice flour, look for it at East and Southeast Asian markets or purchase it online. Popular brands like Mochiko are widely available and will give the best results.

• Adjusting Muffin Quantity: Depending on how high you fill the muffin cups, you can make anywhere from 12 to 16 muffins. If you prefer larger muffins, fill the cups more; for smaller muffins, use less batter per cup.

How to Store Mochi Muffins

Mochi Muffins are best enjoyed the day they are made. However, if you have leftovers, make sure to cool them completely and store them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh at room temperature for up to two days. It’s essential to avoid refrigerating them as the cold air can affect their chewy texture.

Can You Freeze Mochi Muffins?

Yes, you can freeze mochi muffins if you have more than you can eat in a couple of days. To freeze them, allow the muffins to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. You can store them in the freezer for up to two months. When you’re ready to eat them, simply thaw the muffins at room temperature, or gently defrost them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their soft, chewy texture.

Health Benefits of Mochi Muffins

Although mochi muffins are a delightful treat, they also have some potential health benefits due to their ingredients. Sweet rice flour is a gluten-free alternative, making these muffins suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Additionally, coconut milk adds a creamy texture without the need for dairy, which can be a helpful substitute for those with lactose intolerance.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that mochi muffins do contain sugar and butter, so they should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Variations and Additions

Mochi muffins are highly adaptable, and there are several ways to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences:

• Add-ins: Consider adding fruit like blueberries, strawberries, or even diced mango for a fruity twist. Nuts like chopped almonds or walnuts can provide crunch, while chocolate chips or chunks can bring an indulgent sweetness.

• Flavoring: For a more exotic flavor, you can incorporate spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, or ginger. These spices complement the sweetness of the coconut milk and maple syrup, creating a spiced version of mochi muffins.

• Frosting or Glaze: For extra sweetness, you can drizzle a simple glaze over the top of the muffins. A mixture of powdered sugar and milk or a chocolate glaze would complement the flavor and add an extra layer of indulgence.

Conclusion: The Perfect Combination of Soft, Chewy, and Sweet

Mochi Muffins are a delicious and unique variation on traditional muffins. Their chewy, soft texture, combined with the sweet, coconut-infused flavor, makes them a perfect treat for any time of the day. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, a snack, or as a dessert, these muffins will not disappoint. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make them a go-to recipe for anyone looking for something quick, delicious, and a little bit different. Don’t forget that you can easily customize the recipe with your favorite add-ins and flavors to make them even more personalized. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or as a frozen treat, Mochi Muffins are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.