As I watched the steam rise from my oven, the enticing aroma of coconut filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to the lush tropical shores of Hawaii. That’s the magic of this Easy Hawaiian Butter Mochi, a delightful cake that offers an irresistible chewy texture and sweet, rich flavor, making it the perfect treat for any occasion. Not only is it simple to prepare, but this dessert is also a crowd-pleaser, whether served at a festive gathering or enjoyed as a cozy afternoon snack paired with coffee. Best of all, it’s gluten-free when made with the right ingredients, so everyone can indulge! Are you ready to bring a taste of the islands into your home? Let’s dive into making this delicious treat!

Why Is Hawaiian Butter Mochi So Special?

Tropical Escape: The moment you slice into this mochi, the fragrant coconut aroma wafts through your kitchen, whisking you away to paradise.

Chewy Delight: With its unique chewy texture, it’s unlike any other cake you’ve tried — every bite is a little piece of heaven!

Easy to Make: This recipe takes minimal effort, making it a go-to dessert for those busy nights when you crave something special.

Customizable Variations: Add a sprinkle of shredded coconut or a dash of vanilla extract to make it your own, just like pairing it with a delicious tropical fruit salad for an extra sweet touch.

Gluten-Free Goodness: When crafted with gluten-free sweet rice flour, it opens the doors for everyone to enjoy this indulgent treat—no one has to miss out!

For more delicious ideas to try at home, check out my Miso Butter Salmon or Garlic Butter Beef. Enjoy bringing a taste of the islands to your kitchen!

Hawaiian Butter Mochi Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to whip up this delightful treat!

For the Cake

Eggs – Essential for structure and richness in your Hawaiian Butter Mochi; no direct substitutes recommended.
Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; brown sugar can give a richer flavor.
Coconut Milk – Infuses a tropical coconut flavor; substitute with whole milk or a blend if needed.
Salted Butter – Provides flavor and fat; unsalted butter can be used to control salt intake.
Sweet Rice Flour – The key to that chewy texture; ensure you use Mochiko or another glutinous rice flour.
Baking Powder – Crucial for leavening, helping your cake rise; no substitutions.

Optional Add-Ins

Shredded Coconut – Mix in for extra coconut goodness or sprinkle on top before baking for added texture.
Vanilla Extract – Use pure extract to enhance flavor; it’s a lovely touch for sweeter notes.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Butter Mochi

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, take a 9×13 inch baking dish and grease it well with butter or non-stick spray. For easier removal later, consider lining the bottom with parchment paper, ensuring the edges hang over slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, crack open your eggs and whisk them until they turn frothy. Gradually add the sugar, mixing until fully dissolved. Next, pour in the rich coconut milk and melted butter, stirring until everything is well combined and smooth, creating a luscious base for your Hawaiian Butter Mochi.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the sweet rice flour and baking powder until blended. Carefully fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently. It’s perfectly fine if some lumps remain; overmixing will affect the delightful chewy texture. The batter should be thick yet pourable, ready for baking.

Step 4: Bake the Mochi
Pour the combined batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the top should turn a lovely golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, signaling it’s time to remove your Hawaiian Butter Mochi.

Step 5: Cool Down
Once baked to perfection, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for about 20–30 minutes. This cooling step is crucial as it allows the mochi to set properly before transferring it. After the cooling period, carefully lift it from the dish using the parchment overhang and place it on a cutting board.

Step 6: Slice and Serve
With a sharp knife, cut your Hawaiian Butter Mochi into squares or rectangles, achieving the size you prefer. The texture should be a delightful contrast of a soft top and a chewy interior. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled, and relish the tropical flavors of this easy-to-make treat!

Storage Tips for Hawaiian Butter Mochi

Room Temperature: Store leftover Hawaiian Butter Mochi in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its delightful chewy texture.
Fridge: If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 week; enjoy it chilled or bring it back to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: Freeze individual squares wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming briefly in the microwave.
Reheating: To revive the soft, chewy goodness, gently warm the mochi pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until just warmed through, enhancing the coconut flavor.

Hawaiian Butter Mochi: Endless Possibilities

Are you ready to make this delightful treat your own? Here’s how to add your personal touch!

Coconut Bliss: Stir in an extra half cup of shredded coconut for a delightful twist, enhancing both flavor and texture.
Adding shredded coconut not only intensifies the tropical flavor but also gives each bite an extra chewy surprise.
Flavor Boost: Enhance your mochi with a teaspoon or two of vanilla extract; it beautifully complements the coconut.
The sweet aroma of vanilla melds perfectly with the rich coconut, creating a warm and inviting flavor profile.
Dairy-Free Delight: Swap coconut milk for almond or oat milk to create a dairy-free version while retaining sweetness.
This transformation allows you to enjoy the cake without sacrificing that moist, chewy delight.
Nutty Addition: Mix in chopped macadamia nuts for a crunchy texture and a taste of the islands; they pair beautifully with coconut.
The rich nutty flavor and crunch of macadamia nuts will elevate your mochi to new heights!
Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a hint of warmth and depth in flavor.
The spice will weave its way through the mochi, giving it an exotic twist that’s sure to impress your guests.
Fruity Fusions: Incorporate mashed ripe bananas or pureed passion fruit to add a fruity dimension to your Hawaiian Butter Mochi.
These additions create excitement and a colorful pop of flavor that complements the chewy base beautifully.
Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top or mix in cocoa powder for a delightful chocolate variation.
Combining chocolate with the chewiness of the mochi creates an irresistible treat that chocolate lovers will adore!
Tropical Harmony: Pair your Hawaiian Butter Mochi with fresh tropical fruit salad or grilled pineapple for a refreshing, fruity contrast.
The acidity and sweetness of the fruit wonderfully balance the richness of the mochi, making for a perfect dessert platter.

For more tropical goodness, don’t forget to check out the vibrant flavors in my Hawaiian Honey Pineapple Chicken recipe or the delightful pairing of my French Onion Butter Rice. Let’s keep the culinary magic alive!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Hawaiian Butter Mochi are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container to save time during busy weeknights. Just be sure to bring the batter back to room temperature before pouring it into the baking dish to maintain that delightful chewy texture. Alternatively, you can bake the mochi ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply slice and serve — it will be just as delicious! Whether warm or chilled, this make-ahead treat ensures you can savor a taste of Hawaii whenever you desire.

Helpful Tricks for Hawaiian Butter Mochi

Egg Whipping: Ensure your eggs are well-beaten until frothy. This adds air, resulting in a lighter texture for your Hawaiian Butter Mochi.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter gently to keep lumps in; it’s okay if it’s not completely smooth. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a chewy delight.
Parchment Paper: Line the baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal after baking. This also helps maintain the shape and integrity of your mochi.
Baking Time Adjustments: Check your mochi a few minutes before the stated baking time. Each oven varies; you may need to bake a little longer for a firmer texture.
Storage Essentials: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for a week. Freezing individual pieces is perfect for future cravings!

What to Serve with Easy Hawaiian Butter Mochi

Indulging in this delightful coconut treat opens up a world of tasty pairings that can elevate your dessert experience.

Tropical Fruit Salad: Bright, fresh fruits like mango, pineapple, and kiwi add a refreshing contrast to the mochi’s rich flavor, creating a vibrant, colorful plate.
Grilled Pineapple: The caramelized sweetness of warm, grilled pineapple complements the coconut notes beautifully, bringing a delicious tropical flair to your dessert table.
Chocolate Dipping Sauce: A warm, rich chocolate sauce for dipping creates a decadent blend of flavors, perfect for those indulgent moments.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy coconut whipped cream adds a heavenly touch, enhancing the sweet, chewy texture of the mochi while keeping it beautifully tropical.
Iced Coffee or Tea: Serve with refreshing iced coffee or herbal tea; the coolness perfectly balances the warm, chewy mochi, providing a cozy drink option.
Lemon Sorbet: The bright citrus notes of lemon sorbet cut through the richness, cleansing the palate while enhancing the tropical flavors in each bite.
Macadamia Nut Crunch: Sprinkling toasted macadamia nuts on top adds a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs exquisitely with the softness of Hawaiian Butter Mochi.
Mango Smoothie: A thick, creamy mango smoothie complements the mochi with its fruity flavor and luscious texture, making for a refreshing treat alongside your dessert.

Explore these delicious pairings and craft a meal that transports your taste buds straight to the heart of Hawaii!

Hawaiian Butter Mochi Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for Hawaiian Butter Mochi?
Absolutely! When selecting eggs, look for ones with clean, uncracked shells and a decent “best by” date. For coconut milk, it should be creamy without any separation; check for produce that has a rich, fresh aroma. If opting for shredded coconut, ensure there are no dark spots on the packaging, indicating staleness.

How should I store leftover Hawaiian Butter Mochi?
Leftover Hawaiian Butter Mochi can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer it chilled, refrigerate it, where it will stay tasty for about 1 week. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture!

Can I freeze Hawaiian Butter Mochi? What’s the best way to do it?
Definitely! To freeze Hawaiian Butter Mochi, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator. For an extra treat, warm them briefly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to bring back that delightful chewy texture!

What should I do if my mochi is too dense?
If your Hawaiian Butter Mochi turns out too dense, it’s likely due to overmixing the batter or under-beating the eggs. To ensure fluffiness, beat the eggs until frothy and mix the batter just until combined, allowing some lumps for that chewy texture. Adjusting baking time slightly can also help create the perfect finish.

Can people with allergies enjoy Hawaiian Butter Mochi?
While Hawaiian Butter Mochi can be gluten-free when using gluten-free sweet rice flour, it does contain eggs and dairy. For those with dietary restrictions, consider experimenting with egg replacements, like aquafaba, and opt for plant-based butter or milk alternatives for a dairy-free version. Always check ingredients for any allergies!