Matcha Brownie Mochi, playfully dubbed “Brochi,” is the perfect hybrid between a chewy mochi and a soft, fudgy brownie. This dessert features a slightly crisp outer layer with a chewy glutinous rice center infused with the earthy flavor of premium matcha green tea. It’s naturally gluten-free, comes together in under an hour, and requires only pantry-friendly ingredients. Whether you’re a matcha lover or a mochi fan, this unique baked treat is an absolute must-try.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 1 cup mochiko (glutinous rice flour)

• ½ cup granulated sugar (use ⅓ cup if less sweetness preferred)

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 tablespoon high-quality matcha powder (sifted)

• Pinch of sea salt

• 1 large egg

• 1 cup canned full-fat coconut milk (or whole milk with 2 tbsp oil)

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (omit if using coconut milk)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together mochiko, sugar, baking powder, salt, and sifted matcha.

3. In another bowl, whisk egg, milk (or coconut milk), and oil until combined.

4. Pour wet ingredients into the dry and mix with a spatula until smooth and lump-free.

5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and tap gently to release air bubbles.

6. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

7. Cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into 16 squares.

8. Dust with extra matcha powder before serving if desired.

9. Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days (do not refrigerate or freeze).

Nutrients (Per Serving – 1 Square, Approximate)

• Calories: 93

• Fat: 4g

• Saturated Fat: 3g

• Carbohydrates: 13g

• Sugar: 1g

• Protein: 2g

• Cholesterol: 10mg

• Sodium: 6mg

• Potassium: 54mg

• Fiber: 1g

• Vitamin A: 15 IU

• Calcium: 5mg

• Iron: 1mg

What Makes Brochi So Special

Brochi isn’t just another trendy snack—it’s a well-balanced dessert that brings together contrasting elements in harmony. On the outside, it forms a delicately crisp and golden top crust, giving it that classic brownie-like appearance. But once you take a bite, the magic of mochi reveals itself. The inside is perfectly chewy and sticky in the best way possible, delivering that glutinous texture that fans of mochi know and love.

Adding matcha to the mix only amplifies the appeal. High-quality matcha powder lends the treat a subtle bitterness and earthy aroma, balancing the sweetness without overpowering it. This makes Brochi an excellent option for those who prefer their desserts less sugary yet still indulgent and satisfying.

Naturally Gluten-Free and Pantry-Friendly

One of the standout qualities of this dessert is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients—most of which are probably already in your pantry—Brochi is incredibly easy to make. It requires no fancy equipment, no complex techniques, and best of all, it’s naturally gluten-free thanks to the use of mochiko, or glutinous rice flour.

Unlike other gluten-free desserts that require a mix of specialty flours and binders, Brochi keeps it minimal without sacrificing texture or flavor. The glutinous rice flour gives it that characteristic stretch and chew, which is difficult to replicate using wheat or all-purpose flours. It’s a fantastic dessert option for anyone with gluten sensitivities, or for those simply seeking a wholesome and novel treat.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re baking for a casual family gathering, a tea party, or a themed celebration, Matcha Brownie Mochi is versatile enough to suit any setting. Its green hue from the matcha adds a pop of color to dessert tables and looks visually striking, especially when dusted with a little extra matcha or powdered sugar.

Because Brochi can be sliced into small squares, it also works wonderfully as part of a dessert sampler or as a gift in treat boxes. It travels well and can be served at room temperature, making it a fantastic option for picnics, potlucks, or lunchbox treats.

It also pairs exceptionally well with beverages. Enjoy a square alongside a hot cup of green tea or a frothy matcha latte to enhance the subtle tea flavors in the dessert. Alternatively, serve it with a glass of cold milk, iced coffee, or even sparkling water with citrus for a refreshing contrast.

Matcha: More Than Just Flavor

What sets Brochi apart from other mochi-based desserts is the infusion of matcha. Sourced from finely ground green tea leaves, matcha offers more than just flavor—it brings a host of health benefits too. Matcha is well known for its antioxidants, particularly catechins, which are thought to support heart health, metabolism, and overall well-being. It’s also a natural source of caffeine and L-theanine, a combination known to promote calm, focused energy.

While the quantity of matcha in Brochi isn’t overwhelming, it’s enough to impart a gentle lift and a slight bitterness that plays beautifully against the creaminess of coconut milk or the richness of whole milk and egg. Even those new to matcha will find this dessert approachable and enjoyable.

Tips for the Perfect Brochi

To achieve the ideal texture, it’s essential to use mochiko flour, specifically labeled as glutinous rice flour—not regular rice flour. The glutinous variety is what gives Brochi its signature chew. Sifting the matcha powder before mixing it in ensures there are no clumps and results in a smoother batter.

Make sure to line your baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to allow for easy removal once baked. Once out of the oven, let the Brochi cool fully before cutting—this helps it set and ensures clean, neat squares.

Avoid refrigerating or freezing Brochi. The cold environment tends to harden mochi and can ruin the delicate balance of chewiness and softness. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature and consume within two days for the best experience.

Fun Variations to Explore

While the classic matcha version is delightful, Brochi lends itself to creative variations. Try adding white chocolate chips or chunks of dark chocolate for a melty contrast. Incorporate a layer of sweet red bean paste in the center for a more traditional Japanese twist. You can even swirl in some cream cheese or condensed milk to mimic cheesecake flavors.

For those who want to branch out from matcha, cocoa powder can be substituted for a more chocolate-forward version. Alternatively, incorporate ground black sesame or hojicha (roasted green tea) powder for an earthier, nutty take.

Another fun option is to use muffin tins or silicone molds to create individually portioned Brochi bites—perfect for parties or sharing.

Brochi as a Gateway Dessert

Brochi has the power to introduce mochi to those who may be unfamiliar with it, especially in Western kitchens where chewy rice-based confections aren’t the norm. Because it’s baked and presented like a brownie, it feels familiar while still offering a new and exciting texture and flavor profile.

It’s also a great way to introduce matcha to friends or family members who may have only encountered it in lattes or ice cream. The combination of matcha and mochi makes for a sensory experience that’s both comforting and novel.

Conclusion

Matcha Brownie Mochi, or Brochi, is more than just a hybrid dessert—it’s a cultural crossroads of flavor, texture, and creativity. With its chewy interior, slight crunch on top, and earthy green tea essence, it delivers a unique experience that traditional desserts rarely achieve. It’s quick to make, accessible to all kinds of eaters, and endlessly customizable.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of Japanese desserts or someone curious about experimenting with matcha, this recipe is a must-try. It’s a wonderful way to expand your baking repertoire, explore global flavors, and treat yourself to something both indulgent and mindful. Add Brochi to your rotation of go-to desserts—you’ll be glad you did.