These Nutella Mochi are the perfect combination of chewy, soft mochi dough and the rich, chocolatey goodness of Nutella. The gooey filling and chewy exterior make them an irresistible treat for anyone who loves a fun twist on traditional mochi. Easy to make with only five ingredients, these Nutella-filled bites are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth in no time. They are ideal for any dessert lover, and once you try them, they’ll become your go-to snack for whenever you’re craving something indulgent!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
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½ cup Nutella (or other chocolate hazelnut spread)
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1 cup glutinous rice flour (mochiko flour)
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1 cup water
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¼ cup sugar
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⅓ cup cornstarch (for dusting)
Directions
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Prepare the Nutella Filling: Using a spoon or a piping bag, drop 10 blobs of Nutella onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for 20-30 minutes to firm them up, making them easier to handle later.
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Make the Mochi Dough: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour and sugar. Whisk in the water until smooth. Cover the bowl with a wet paper towel and microwave the mixture for 1 minute. Stir with a spatula, then microwave for another minute or two until the dough becomes sticky and translucent. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes.
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Shape the Mochi: Dust your work surface with cornstarch. Roll out the mochi dough to about ¼-inch thick. Divide the dough into 10 portions.
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Fill and Seal: Place a frozen blob of Nutella in the center of each mochi portion. Carefully pull the sides of the dough over the Nutella to seal it. Pinch the dough edges to fully enclose the filling. Dust lightly with cornstarch to prevent sticking.
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Serve: Once all the mochi are formed, enjoy them immediately or refrigerate for up to two days. You can also freeze them for up to one month—just be sure to thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.
Nutrients
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Calories: 437 kcal (per serving)
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Carbohydrates: 78g
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Protein: 4g
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Fat: 12g
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Saturated Fat: 11g
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Sodium: 19mg
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Potassium: 184mg
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugar: 33g
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Vitamin A: 1 IU
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Calcium: 47mg
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Iron: 2mg
The Allure of Mochi: A Delightful Japanese Treat
Mochi, a traditional Japanese delicacy made from glutinous rice flour, is known for its soft, chewy texture. It has a history that dates back centuries in Japan, where it was originally prepared during special occasions and celebrations. The process of making mochi involves pounding glutinous rice into a paste, which is then formed into various shapes and sizes. Mochi has a distinct texture, almost like a soft, elastic dough that provides a satisfying chew with every bite.
The appeal of mochi lies not only in its texture but also in its versatility. Traditionally, it’s served plain or with fillings like red bean paste or fruits, but in recent years, there has been a surge in creative variations. Nutella Mochi is one such innovation, adding a modern twist to the classic treat by filling it with the beloved chocolate hazelnut spread. The result is a delightful balance of textures, where the soft, chewy exterior of the mochi contrasts perfectly with the rich, gooey Nutella inside.
Why Nutella? The Perfect Filling for Mochi
Nutella, a popular chocolate hazelnut spread, is a beloved treat worldwide. Its creamy texture and sweet, nutty flavor make it a perfect filling for mochi. The rich chocolatey taste of Nutella creates a mouthwatering contrast to the neutral flavor of the glutinous rice flour dough, bringing depth and indulgence to each bite. Nutella also has a smooth consistency that makes it easy to scoop and form into blobs, perfect for enclosing inside the mochi.
The Nutella filling doesn’t just add flavor; it also creates a delightful texture contrast. While the mochi dough is soft and chewy, the Nutella center is smooth and gooey, offering a burst of sweetness that complements the chewy exterior. This combination of textures and flavors makes Nutella Mochi a unique and satisfying dessert.
The Simple Ingredients Behind Nutella Mochi
One of the best things about Nutella Mochi is how few ingredients are required to make this delicious treat. The dough is made using glutinous rice flour (also known as mochiko), sugar, and water, which are the basics of traditional mochi. The rice flour gives the dough its signature chewy texture, while the sugar sweetens it just enough to complement the Nutella filling.
The key to a smooth and stretchy dough is the method of cooking. By microwaving the rice flour and water mixture, it’s possible to create a smooth, translucent dough that is easy to handle and pliable enough to form into individual mochi pockets. The addition of Nutella as the filling adds a decadent twist, making the mochi both flavorful and indulgent without the need for complex ingredients or preparation methods.
Making Mochi at Home: An Easy Process
While traditional mochi-making methods can be time-consuming and labor-intensive, the process for making Nutella Mochi is incredibly simple. The rice flour dough comes together quickly by microwaving the flour, water, and sugar, and it doesn’t require any special tools or equipment. The most important step is allowing the dough to cool enough to handle, as it can be quite sticky when hot.
Once the dough is ready, it’s simply a matter of dividing it into portions, flattening it into small discs, and wrapping each piece around a frozen blob of Nutella. Freezing the Nutella before adding it to the dough ensures that it holds its shape and doesn’t melt too quickly while working with the dough. This simple method creates a soft, chewy exterior with a delicious Nutella center, all without the need for complicated cooking techniques.
Textural Delight: The Chewy Exterior and Gooey Nutella Filling
What makes Nutella Mochi so special is the contrast in textures. The exterior is soft, chewy, and slightly elastic, thanks to the glutinous rice flour, while the Nutella filling is smooth, gooey, and rich. The bite begins with the chewiness of the mochi, followed by the creamy, chocolatey center that oozes out as you take a bite. This delightful contrast makes Nutella Mochi an irresistible treat, offering a fun and unique eating experience.
The chewy exterior of the mochi is reminiscent of other soft desserts, such as gummies or marshmallows, but with a more delicate texture. The Nutella filling, on the other hand, adds a layer of richness and indulgence, providing a satisfying balance to the chewy dough. This combination makes Nutella Mochi a perfect fusion of textures, ensuring that each bite is a complete sensory experience.
Serving Nutella Mochi: Versatility and Enjoyment
Nutella Mochi can be served in a variety of ways, making it a versatile dessert for any occasion. You can serve them as individual bite-sized treats, perfect for parties or gatherings, or enjoy them as a personal indulgence after a meal. The mochi is best served fresh, allowing you to enjoy the contrast between the warm, soft dough and the gooey Nutella filling.
While Nutella Mochi can be enjoyed on its own, it can also be paired with other treats to elevate the experience. For example, serving them alongside a cup of hot tea or coffee creates a perfect pairing, with the warm beverage complementing the sweetness of the mochi. Alternatively, for an extra indulgent treat, Nutella Mochi can be topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, making them even more decadent.
Storage and Freezing Nutella Mochi
One of the best aspects of Nutella Mochi is how easy it is to store and enjoy later. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The mochi dough remains soft and chewy, and the Nutella filling retains its creamy consistency. If you prefer to store the mochi for a longer period, they can be frozen for up to one month. To freeze, place the Nutella Mochi in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze them until firm, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
To enjoy frozen Nutella Mochi, simply let them thaw in the fridge overnight. When ready to eat, you can enjoy them chilled or allow them to come to room temperature for the best flavor and texture. Whether fresh, refrigerated, or frozen, Nutella Mochi can be enjoyed as a delicious and convenient treat whenever the craving strikes.
Conclusion
Nutella Mochi is a delightful twist on traditional mochi, combining the chewy texture of glutinous rice flour with the indulgent, chocolatey richness of Nutella. With just five simple ingredients, you can create a fun, flavorful dessert that is both satisfying and easy to make. The contrast between the chewy exterior and the gooey Nutella filling makes every bite a sensory delight. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack, serving them at a party, or giving them as a gift, Nutella Mochi is a treat that will quickly become a favorite. Their simplicity, versatility, and irresistible flavor make them the perfect indulgence for any occasion.