How to Make Delicious Mochi Donuts at Home

Mochi donuts are a delightful fusion of Japanese mochi and American donuts, known for their crispy exterior and uniquely chewy interior. Popularized by shops across Asia and the U.S., mochi donuts are easy to make, naturally gluten-free, and customizable with different flavors and toppings. Here’s a step-by-step recipe to help you create these light, chewy treats at home, with optional glazes and toppings to make them even more delicious.

Ingredients:

For the Donut Dough:

1 cup of glutinous rice flour (often called sweet rice flour)
½ cup of all-purpose flour (or substitute with gluten-free flour)
½ cup of sugar
1 teaspoon of baking powder
¼ teaspoon of salt
½ cup of milk (or non-dairy milk for dairy-free option)
1 large egg
2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted
Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Glaze (optional):

1 cup of powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons of milk or water
½ teaspoon of vanilla extract
Optional toppings: sprinkles, matcha powder, chocolate drizzle, crushed nuts

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: glutinous rice flour, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter until well combined. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring to form a soft, sticky dough. If the dough is too sticky to handle, add a bit more glutinous rice flour until you can shape it more easily.

2. Shape the Donuts

For the signature mochi donut look, roll small balls of dough and form them into rings. A popular technique is to make eight small balls (around 1 inch in diameter) and press them together in a circle. You can also use a donut mold if you prefer a uniform shape. Place the shaped donuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

3. Heat the Oil

In a deep pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). A kitchen thermometer is recommended to maintain a steady oil temperature, as too-high heat may burn the donuts, while too-low heat can make them greasy.

4. Fry the Donuts

Once the oil reaches the correct temperature, carefully place the donuts into the oil, frying a few at a time to avoid crowding. Cook each donut for about 2-3 minutes per side until they’re golden brown. Once done, transfer the donuts to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

5. Make the Glaze (Optional)

While the donuts cool, prepare a simple glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk (or water), and vanilla extract until smooth. For fun variations, add a bit of matcha powder, cocoa powder, or food coloring to create different flavors and colors.

6. Glaze and Decorate

Dip the donuts in the glaze, coating evenly. Let any excess glaze drip off before placing the donuts on a wire rack to set. While the glaze is still wet, sprinkle with your favorite toppings—whether that’s colorful sprinkles, chocolate drizzle, or crushed nuts for a delightful crunch.

Tips for Perfect Mochi Donuts:

Use Glutinous Rice Flour: Glutinous rice flour (or sweet rice flour) is crucial for achieving the chewy texture typical of mochi donuts. Regular rice flour won’t provide the same texture.
Monitor Oil Temperature: Consistent oil temperature at 350°F is key for crispy, golden donuts. Use a thermometer if possible and adjust the heat as needed during frying.
Customize Flavors and Toppings: Mochi donuts are incredibly versatile. Try adding matcha powder, cocoa, or even freeze-dried fruit powder to the dough for different flavors. You can also flavor the glaze with extracts like almond, lemon, or coconut for a unique twist.
Best Enjoyed Fresh: Mochi donuts taste best when fresh, as they may lose some of their chewiness over time. If you plan to store them, keep them in an airtight container for up to a day and refresh by warming them slightly in the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I bake these mochi donuts instead of frying them?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the donuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they’re slightly golden. They won’t be as crispy as fried donuts, but they’ll still taste wonderful.

How can I store leftover mochi donuts?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Be aware that they may lose some chewiness. To revive them, heat in the oven for a few minutes to regain a bit of the texture.

Enjoy Your Homemade Mochi Donuts!

Mochi donuts are a fun, unique treat that combines the lightness of a donut with the satisfying chewiness of mochi. Perfect for sharing, they’re a surefire hit whether you serve them as a special dessert, a party treat, or a delicious snack. With endless ways to customize with flavors and toppings, you can make every batch uniquely yours. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and savor each chewy, delicious bite of these homemade mochi donuts!