Ono Butter Mochi is a beloved Hawaiian dessert known for its chewy texture and rich, buttery flavor. Made with glutinous rice flour and coconut, this treat offers a delightful fusion of traditional Japanese mochi and Hawaiian culinary influences. It’s a crowd-pleaser at gatherings and a sweet indulgence for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 pound mochiko (glutinous rice flour)
- 2½ cups white sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 3 cups whole milk
- 5 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, and milk.
- In a separate large bowl, combine the mochiko, sugar, and baking powder.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well blended.
- Mix in the melted butter and sweetened flaked coconut.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 1 hour in the preheated oven.
- Allow the mochi to cool completely before cutting into squares to serve.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 387 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 82mg
- Sodium: 135mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 64g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 38g
- Protein: 6g
The Origins and Cultural Significance of Butter Mochi
Butter mochi is deeply rooted in Hawaiian cuisine, which is known for its diverse influences from Japan, China, Portugal, the Philippines, and other cultures. It is believed that Japanese immigrants brought mochi-making traditions to Hawaii in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when they arrived to work on sugarcane plantations. Over time, locals adapted the recipe by incorporating dairy products and coconut, which are more common in Hawaiian and Western baking.
Today, butter mochi is a beloved dessert across the Hawaiian Islands. It is often found in bakeries, family gatherings, and special celebrations. Many families have their own unique spin on the recipe, adding different ingredients to personalize the flavor. Whether enjoyed at luaus, birthday parties, or holiday feasts, butter mochi represents the fusion of cultures that makes Hawaiian cuisine so special.
Why You’ll Love This Dessert
- Perfectly chewy texture: A soft and chewy inside with a slightly crispy, caramelized crust.
- Rich, buttery flavor: The combination of butter and coconut gives it a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth taste.
- Naturally gluten-free: Since it’s made with mochiko (glutinous rice flour), butter mochi is a great gluten-free dessert option.
- Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it an excellent choice for beginner bakers.
- Great for gatherings: A crowd-pleaser that can be made in advance and served at any event.
Health Benefits of Butter Mochi
Although butter mochi is a rich dessert, it does offer some nutritional benefits, especially when enjoyed in moderation:
- Gluten-free alternative: Made with glutinous rice flour, butter mochi is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Energy-boosting carbs: The rice flour provides a good source of carbohydrates for sustained energy.
- Contains essential minerals: Coconut is rich in manganese, which supports metabolism and bone health.
- Good source of protein: Eggs and milk add protein, which helps keep you full for longer.
That being said, butter mochi is a treat best enjoyed in moderation due to its high sugar and butter content.
Best Occasions to Serve Ono Butter Mochi
Butter mochi is versatile and can be served on various occasions, making it a favorite in many Hawaiian households:
- Family gatherings and potlucks: A great dessert that’s easy to transport and share.
- Holidays and celebrations: Perfect for festive occasions like Christmas, Thanksgiving, or birthdays.
- Afternoon snack: A satisfying treat to enjoy with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.
- Luau parties: A traditional Hawaiian dish that fits in beautifully with tropical-themed meals.
- Gifting: Homemade butter mochi makes a thoughtful and delicious gift for friends and family.
Tips for Making the Best Butter Mochi
- Use high-quality mochiko flour: The key to the perfect chewy texture is using good-quality glutinous rice flour, such as Koda Farms mochiko.
- Melt the butter properly: Make sure the butter is fully melted and evenly mixed into the batter for a smooth, rich consistency.
- Mix gently: Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can make the texture too dense. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
- Grease the baking dish well: Butter mochi can be sticky, so greasing the pan thoroughly ensures easy removal.
- Let it cool completely: The texture improves as it cools, making it easier to cut into clean squares.
- Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Popular Variations of Butter Mochi
Butter mochi is incredibly versatile, and there are many variations to explore:
- Chocolate Butter Mochi: Add cocoa powder or chocolate chips for a rich, chocolaty twist.
- Mango Butter Mochi: Blend in fresh mango puree for a fruity variation.
- Ube Butter Mochi: Incorporate ube (purple yam) for a stunning purple color and a slightly nutty flavor.
- Peanut Butter Mochi: Swirl in peanut butter for a nutty, creamy contrast.
- Coffee Butter Mochi: Add instant coffee or espresso powder for a mocha-inspired version.
- Macadamia Nut Butter Mochi: Sprinkle chopped macadamia nuts on top for extra crunch.
Best Pairings for Butter Mochi
Enhance your butter mochi experience by serving it with these complementary flavors:
- Tropical fruits: Pair with fresh mango, pineapple, or papaya for a refreshing contrast.
- Ice cream: Serve warm butter mochi with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream.
- Whipped cream: A light, airy topping that balances the density of the mochi.
- Hawaiian coffee or tea: The slightly sweet, nutty flavors of Kona coffee or jasmine tea complement butter mochi beautifully.
- Toasted coconut flakes: Sprinkle on top for added texture and flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Room temperature storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to a week. Let it come to room temperature before serving or warm it in the microwave for a few seconds.
- Freezing: Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven for a few minutes.
Conclusion
Ono Butter Mochi is a delightful Hawaiian dessert that perfectly blends the chewiness of traditional mochi with the rich, buttery flavors of Western baking. Its versatility, easy preparation, and crowd-pleasing taste make it a must-try treat for any dessert lover.