Desserts > International Desserts > Japanese Desserts > Mochi Recipes

Homemade Mochi Ice Cream

Mochi ice cream is a delightful Japanese-inspired dessert where small balls of ice cream are wrapped in soft, chewy mochi. This recipe allows you to create your own customized mochi ice cream at home with your favorite ice cream flavors.

Prep Time
45 minutes (including freezing time)
Cook Time
15 minutes
Servings
8-10
Ingredients
  • 100 g Glutinous Rice Flour (Mochiko)
  • 50 g Granulated Sugar
  • 120 ml Water
  • as needed Cornstarch or Potato Starch (for dusting)
  • 500 ml Ice Cream (your favorite flavor)
  • few drops Food Coloring (optional)

Prepare the Ice Cream

Scoop out the ice cream into small balls using a small ice cream scoop or spoon. Place the ice cream balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for at least 1 hour, or until very firm. This will prevent the ice cream from melting too quickly when wrapping it in mochi.

Cook the Mochi Dough

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour and sugar. Gradually add the water, mixing well until a smooth batter forms. If using food coloring, add a few drops at this stage. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and microwave on high for 1 minute. Remove the plastic wrap (be careful of the steam) and stir the mochi. Cover again and microwave for another minute. Stir the mochi again. It should be translucent and sticky. If it's still too liquid, microwave for another 30 seconds.

Shape the Mochi Ice Cream

Generously dust a clean surface with cornstarch or potato starch. Turn the hot mochi dough out onto the dusted surface. Dust the top of the mochi with more starch. Divide the mochi dough into 8-10 equal portions. Flatten each portion into a small disc. Quickly place a frozen ice cream ball in the center of a mochi disc. Gently wrap the mochi around the ice cream, pinching the edges to seal. Roll the mochi ice cream in more starch to prevent sticking. Place the finished mochi ice cream back on the parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Serve

Serve the Mochi Ice Cream straight from the freezer. Allow it to sit for a minute or two before eating for a slightly softer texture.

Nutrition Facts (Estimated per Mochi Ice Cream)

Calories: Approximately 180-250 kcal
Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-45g
Protein: Approximately 2-4g
Fat: Approximately 5-10g
(Note: These values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ice cream flavor used.)

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

Mochi ice cream contains a significant amount of sugar and calories due to the sugar added in the mochi and the sugar and fat content of the ice cream. It should be consumed in moderation as an occasional treat. Consider using lower-sugar ice cream or smaller portions for a healthier option.

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FAQ

  • Can I use different flavors of ice cream?

    Yes, you can use any flavor of ice cream you like! Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite.
  • Why is it important to freeze the ice cream balls before wrapping them?

    Freezing the ice cream balls prevents them from melting too quickly when you're wrapping them in the warm mochi dough. This makes the process much easier and results in a better final product.