What is mochi brownie?
Mochi brownies are a delicious dessert that combines the chewy texture of Japanese mochi with the rich, fudgy goodness of a classic brownie. It is a fusion dessert that has recently gained popularity, especially in Asian-inspired bakeries and cafes.
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The mochi brownie typically features a layer of mochi on top or within the brownie batter. If you have not had mochi, mochi is a traditional Japanese rice cake made from glutinous rice flour. It has a unique, chewy texture often enjoyed in various sweet and savory dishes. In the case of mochi brownies, the mochi layer adds an extra dimension of chewiness to the already dense and moist brownie.
Once baked, mochi brownies have a delightful combination of textures. The bottom layer is dense and fudgy, like a traditional brownie, while the mochi part provides a satisfying chewiness. The contrast between the two textures makes it a unique and enjoyable treat.
What does mochi brownie taste like?
Mochi brownies have a unique and delicious flavor that combines elements of traditional brownies with the taste of mochi. You will notice the following taste while enjoying them:
- Chewy and Soft: Mochi brownies have a chewy and soft texture, similar to regular mochi.
- Sweetness: Mochi brownies are typically sweet, with a level of sweetness similar to traditional brownies.
- Chocolatey: Mochi brownies retain the chocolate flavor that is characteristic of classic brownies.
- Rice Flour Flavor: Mochi is traditionally made from glutinous rice flour, and this ingredient gives mochi brownies a subtle rice flour flavor.
Overall, the taste of the chewy mochi brownies can be described as a harmonious blend of chocolatey sweetness with a chewy, mochi-like texture.
Mochi brownies can be enjoyed on their own or served with a scoop of ice cream, powdered sugar, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. They are a delightful fusion dessert that blends Asian and Western flavors and textures into one delicious treat.
Ingredients
Mochiko flour (sweet rice flour): It is not regular rice flour. It is known as glutinous rice flour or sweet rice flour, made from short-grain glutinous rice. Despite its name, it does not contain gluten and is safe for gluten-free people. You can get it from the Asian market easily.
Whole milk: You can also substitute it with almond milk or coconut milk if you want.
Baking powder: Baking powder is a leavening agent commonly used in baking to help mochi brownies rise and achieve a light and fluffy texture.
Butter: It adds a rich and distinct flavor to the batter.
A large egg: The egg contributes moisture to the mochi brownies batter, resulting in a softer and more tender texture.
Granulated sugar, a pinch of kosher salt, and unsweet cocoa powder: add rich flavors to the batter.
Vanilla extract and Chocolate chunks or melted chocolate: optional.
How to make mochi brownies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush a thin layer of oil on a glass baking pan. You can also grease or line a baking dish with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweet rice four, salt, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and baking powder. Stir until well mixed. Set aside. In a separate mixing bowl, add the melted butter, milk, egg, and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients mixture to the wet ingredients mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Pour the brownie batter into the greased or lined baking dish. Gently spread it out evenly using a spatula. If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or other add-ins over the mochi layer. I did not.
Bake the mochi brownies in the oven for approximately 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the baking dish. Once cooled, cut the mochi brownies into squares or desired shapes and serve. Enjoy your homemade mochi brownies!
Pro tips for perfect mochi brownie
Here are some pro tips to help you achieve the perfect mochi brownies:
- Don't overmix the batter: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can result in a tougher texture, so be careful not to overdo it.
- Adjust sweetness: Mochi brownies can be quite sweet, so feel free to adjust the sugar quantity to your preference. You can reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet brownie.
- Experiment with flavors: While the classic mochi brownie is made with cocoa powder, you can add different flavor variations. For example, you could substitute some cocoa powder with matcha powder for a green tea flavor or add espresso powder for a mocha twist.
- Add texture with toppings: Consider adding texture and flavor by sprinkling chopped nuts and chocolate chips. These toppings can add a delightful crunch or extra burst of flavor.
- Adjust baking time: The baking time may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of your brownie. Keep a close eye on them while baking, and insert a toothpick into the center to check for doneness. You want the toothpick to come out with a few moist crumbs, as mochi brownies should be fudgy and slightly gooey.
Store and reheat
Storage: Once your mochi brownies have completely cooled down, store them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. You can store them at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months.
Reheat: For a quick reheating method, you can place a single mochi brownie on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 10 to 15-second intervals until it reaches your desired warmth. Be careful not to overheat, as mochi can become tough and chewy when overheated. You can also reheat them in the oven at 300F for 5-10 minutes or until heated.
Remember, mochi brownies are best enjoyed when fresh, so try to consume them within a few days of baking for the ultimate taste and texture.
Conclusion
The process of making mochi brownies is super easy and brings a perfect balance of textures and flavors. These brownies offer a unique and satisfying twist on a classic dessert. Whether you're a mochi enthusiast or a brownie lover, this recipe is a must-try. Let me know what you think by leaving comments below, and happy baking!:)
Delicious Chewy Mochi Brownies Recipe (Gluten-Free)
Ingredients
- 1 ⅔ cups granulated sugar
- 1 ¼ cups glutinous rice flour mochiko or sweet rice flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 2 sticks unsalted butter melted
- 1 egg
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush a thin layer of oil on a glass baking pan. You can also grease or line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice, salt, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and baking powder. Stir until well mixed. Set aside.
- In a separate mixing bowl, add the melted butter, milk, egg, and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients mixture to the wet ingredients mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour the brownie batter into the greased or lined baking dish. Gently spread it out evenly using a spatula.
- If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or other add-ins over the mochi layer. I did not.
- Bake the mochi brownies in the oven for approximately 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the baking dish. Once cooled, cut the mochi brownies into squares or desired shapes and serve.
- Enjoy your homemade mochi brownies!
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