Strawberry Mochi Recipe
Anika
| 07-11-2026
· Cate teamStrawberry mochi, also known as Ichigo Daifuku, is a delightful Japanese dessert made with fresh strawberries, sweet red bean paste, and soft, chewy rice dough. Each piece combines juicy fruit with a smooth, sweet filling and a delicate outer layer.
Although these little treats look delicate, they are surprisingly simple to prepare at home. With a microwave and a few basic ingredients, we can make six delicious strawberry mochi in approximately 23 minutes.
What Is Strawberry Mochi?
Strawberry mochi is a small, round dessert with three layers of flavor and texture. Fresh strawberries provide natural sweetness and a refreshing taste. Smooth red bean paste surrounds the fruit, while glutinous rice dough creates the soft, stretchy exterior.
Some versions completely cover the strawberry, while others leave its pointed top visible. Both styles are attractive and delicious.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: Approximately 3 minutes
- Total time: 23 minutes
- Servings: 6 pieces
Ingredients
For the filling:
- 6 small fresh strawberries
- 150 g smooth sweet red bean paste (25 g per strawberry)
For the mochi dough:
- 80 g shiratamako (glutinous rice flour)
- 50 g granulated sugar
- 120 ml water
For dusting:
- 30–50 g potato starch, as needed
You will also need a microwave-safe bowl, spatula, kitchen scale, clean work surface, and serving plate.
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
1. Wash the six strawberries gently under cool running water.
2. Remove the green leaves and stems.
3. Dry each strawberry thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel.
4. Set them aside while preparing the filling.
Dry strawberries are important because excess moisture can make the red bean paste slippery and difficult to wrap.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
1. Divide 150 g of red bean paste into six equal portions of approximately 25 g each.
2. Roll each portion into a small ball.
3. Place one strawberry in the center of each ball.
4. Gently spread the paste around the sides of the fruit, leaving the pointed top exposed.
5. Repeat with all six strawberries.
6. Refrigerate the prepared fillings while making the dough.
Step 3: Mix and Cook the Dough
1. Place 80 g of shiratamako and 50 g of sugar in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Gradually add 120 ml of water while stirring continuously.
3. Mix until the flour dissolves and no visible lumps remain.
4. Microwave on high for 1 minute.
5. Remove carefully and stir thoroughly with a spatula.
6. Heat for another 30 seconds and stir again.
7. If the mixture remains cloudy, heat for an additional 30 seconds as needed.
The finished dough should look glossy, slightly translucent, and stretchy. Avoid overheating because this can make it too firm.
Step 4: Divide the Mochi
1. Sprinkle potato starch generously over a clean work surface.
2. Transfer the warm dough onto the starch.
3. Dust the surface and your hands to prevent sticking.
4. Allow the dough to cool until comfortable to handle.
5. Divide it into six equal portions.
6. Flatten each portion into a round disc, keeping the center slightly thicker than the edges.
Step 5: Wrap the Strawberry Filling
1. Place one prepared strawberry filling in the center of a dough disc, with the strawberry tip facing downward.
2. Gently lift the dough edges around the filling.
3. Bring the edges together and pinch firmly to seal.
4. Turn the mochi over so the sealed side faces downward.
5. Gently shape it into a smooth round piece.
6. Repeat with the remaining portions.
If the dough sticks to your fingers, add a little potato starch. Avoid pulling too hard, as this may tear the dough.
Serving and Storage Tips
Arrange the finished mochi on a serving plate and enjoy them on the day they are made. Their soft exterior and juicy strawberry filling are best when fresh.
For leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Remove them approximately 15 minutes before serving to help the dough soften slightly.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry mochi is a lovely homemade dessert that combines fresh fruit, sweet filling, and chewy rice dough. By measuring carefully, drying the strawberries, and following each wrapping step, we can create six beautiful treats with simple kitchen ingredients. It is an enjoyable recipe for anyone interested in making Japanese-inspired sweets at home.
Strawberry Mochi Made Easy | Soft & Chewy Ichigo Daifuku Recipe
Video by Sudachi | Japanese Recipes | Yuto Omura