Make soft, chewy Watermelon Mochi at home. This easy recipe delivers refreshing, bite-sized summer sweets using natural fruit flavor for a delightful gluten-free Asian dessert.
Author:katiehayes
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:10 min
Total Time:25 min
Yield:18 servings 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Microwave/Steaming
Cuisine:Japanese
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup Watermelon Juice (strained and concentrated)
1 cup Glutinous Rice Flour (Mochiko)
1/4 cup Granulated Sugar
1/4 cup Water (or more, for consistency)
1 tablespoon Cornstarch (for dusting)
Instructions
Prepare the Watermelon Juice: Strain 1.5 cups of fresh watermelon juice down to 1 cup of concentrated liquid. You can gently simmer it on low heat to reduce the water content slightly, which deepens the flavor. Let it cool completely.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a microwave-safe bowl, whisk together the glutinous rice flour and sugar until fully combined.
Combine Wet and Dry: Slowly pour the cooled watermelon juice into the flour mixture while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add the 1/4 cup of water, mixing until you have a smooth, pourable batter.
Steam or Microwave the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, leaving a small vent. Microwave on high for 1 minute, stir well, and repeat this process (1 minute intervals, stirring in between) until the dough is thick, translucent, and no longer sticky or wet (usually 4-6 minutes total). Alternatively, steam the batter in a covered dish over boiling water for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
Cool the Dough: Once cooked, let the mochi dough cool slightly until it is warm enough to handle.
Prepare Work Surface: Dust a clean surface or cutting board generously with cornstarch.
Knead and Shape: Transfer the warm dough onto the cornstarch. Dust your hands with more cornstarch and gently knead the dough a few times to incorporate the starch and make it pliable.
Portion the Mochi: Roll the dough into a long log. Cut the log into small, equal pieces. Roll each piece into a small ball to create your bite-sized watermelon mochi treats.
Dust and Serve: Dust the finished mochi lightly with cornstarch to prevent sticking. Serve immediately or chill briefly for a firmer texture.
Notes
For a stronger watermelon color without artificial dye, use a small amount of concentrated watermelon puree instead of juice, or add a drop of natural red food coloring if desired.
Store leftover mochi in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day, or refrigerate for up to three days. They taste best the day they are made.
If the dough feels too stiff during kneading, wet your hands slightly and work in a tiny bit more water until you achieve a soft, chewy texture.