Mochi Doughnuts: Irresistibly Chewy and Delightfully Fun

Hi I'm Merry

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on January 14, 2026

As the aroma of warm doughnuts fills the air, who can resist indulging in a little sweet delight? My latest obsession is the Mochi Doughnuts—a delightful Japanese-American fusion that transforms the traditional doughnut into a chewy sensation. With a soft, glutinous texture and a unique spherical shape, these beauties are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Perfect for any occasion, they can be easily customized with luscious glazes and fun toppings, making them a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Whether you’re searching for a fun weekend project or a creative way to impress your friends, these Mochi Doughnuts are sure to satisfy. Ready to explore a twist on your favorite treats?

Why Are Mochi Doughnuts So Irresistible?

Uniquely Chewy Texture: Each bite is a delightful surprise, offering that signature chewy goodness you won’t find in traditional doughnuts.

Endless Customization: Choose from a variety of glazes and toppings to make these treats your own. Whether you prefer classic chocolate or adventurous matcha, the options are endless!

Crowd-Pleasing Snack: Perfect for parties or family gatherings, these Mochi Doughnuts will impress guests and keep everyone coming back for more.

Quick and Simple: No complicated processes here; just mix, fry, and enjoy! This recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced home cooks.

Cultural Fusion: Experience the best of both worlds with this Japanese-American treat, showcasing diverse culinary influences that are both fun and flavorful. For even more delicious ideas, check out our range of easy dessert recipes.

Mochi Doughnut Ingredients

For the Doughnuts
• Glutinous Rice Flour – Provides the signature chewy texture; no direct substitute recommended, but a gluten-free blend can be experimented with.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; you can substitute with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; can be omitted for dietary preferences.
• Milk (or plant-based milk) – Adds moisture; swap for almond milk or oat milk to make it dairy-free.
• Eggs – Binds the mixture and adds richness; use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water) for a vegan alternative.
• Oil (for frying) – Essential for deep frying; substitute with vegetable oil or coconut oil based on preference.

For the Glaze (Optional)
• Chocolate or Vanilla Extract – Adds flavor depth; use pure extracts for the best taste.
• Powdered Sugar – Needed for a sweet glaze; ensure it’s sifted for a smooth consistency.
• Matcha Powder – Infuses a vibrant color and flavor; it’s perfect for those who love a twist on traditional doughnuts.

Dive into crafting your very own Mochi Doughnuts with these key ingredients that promise a chewy, mouthwatering experience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mochi Doughnuts

Step 1: Prepare Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of glutinous rice flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt, stirring well. Gradually add 3/4 cup of milk and 1 beaten egg, mixing until the dough is smooth and free of lumps. This mochi dough should feel pliable and slightly sticky, so make sure not to overmix!

Step 2: Shape Doughnuts
Dust your hands with some flour to prevent sticking. Scoop small portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Then, gently connect two balls to form a ring shape, ensuring they stick well together. These adorable shapes should be uniform and about 2 inches wide, as they’ll puff up a bit during frying.

Step 3: Heat Oil
In a deep pan or a heavy-bottomed pot, heat about 3 cups of oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy; the oil should shimmer but not smoke. This temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the chewy inside intact, so be patient as it warms up!

Step 4: Fry Doughnuts
Carefully place a few doughnut rings into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and puffed. Use a slotted spoon to gently flip them, watching for a beautiful, crispy finish. Once done, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Cool
Allow the fried mochi doughnuts to cool for at least five minutes on the paper towels. This cooling period helps them firm up a bit, making them easier to glaze later. The outside should feel crisp while the inside remains gloriously soft and chewy. Get ready for the next step as you prepare to transform these beauties with your favorite toppings!

Step 6: Glaze (Optional)
If you desire a sweet finish, prepare a glaze by mixing 1 cup of sifted powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk and your choice of flavorings, like vanilla or matcha powder. Once the doughnuts have cooled slightly, dip them into the glaze, letting any excess drip off. Set aside to allow the glaze to set, adding toppings such as sprinkles if desired.

How to Store and Freeze Mochi Doughnuts

Room Temperature: Store mochi doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day to maintain their delightful chewiness.
Fridge: Keep any leftover mochi doughnuts in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help preserve their freshness, but they may lose some of their chewy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each doughnut tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months; just be sure to thaw them in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: To revive your mochi doughnuts, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or reheat in a toaster oven. This will help restore their warm, chewy goodness!

What to Serve with Mochi Doughnuts?

Indulging in sweet and chewy decadent doughnuts gets even better when paired with delightful accompaniments!

Rich Coffee: A hot cup of coffee balances the sweetness, enhancing the doughnuts’ flavors without overwhelming your palate.
Fruity Tea: A refreshing iced tea with fruity notes offers a bright contrast to the mochi doughnuts, making for a lovely afternoon treat.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Elevate your dessert game by serving a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside for that perfect contrast of warm and cold.
Fresh Berries: The natural tartness of raspberries or strawberries adds a vibrant freshness that beautifully complements the sweetness of the doughnuts.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream rounds out the flavor profile, transforming your mochi doughnuts into an indulgent dessert experience.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the doughnuts creates a rich, heavenly experience that chocolate lovers simply cannot resist.
Matcha Latte: The earthy flavors of a matcha latte resonate with the doughnuts’ pleasantly chewy texture, providing a delightful Japanese-inspired pairing.
Coconut Whipped Cream: This unique topping adds a tropical flair and creamy richness that pairs wonderfully with the mochi’s chewy goodness.
Fruit Compote: A homemade fruit compote made from seasonal fruits, like peaches or plums, brings a sweet-tart dimension to every bite of the doughnuts, enhancing the overall experience.

Expert Tips for Perfect Mochi Doughnuts

Consistent Temperature: Maintain oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) for perfect frying. If it’s too low, the doughnuts will absorb oil; too high, and they’ll burn.
Watch the Clock: Fry each doughnut for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Overcooking can result in a tough texture, losing that delightful chewiness we love in Mochi Doughnuts.
Dough Consistency: Ensure your dough is soft and slightly sticky, but not overly wet. This balance is key for shaping and frying successful doughnuts.
Avoid Overcrowding: Fry a few doughnuts at a time to maintain oil temperature and achieve that crispy exterior. If you add too many at once, they’ll steam instead of fry!
Cool Before Glazing: Let the doughnuts cool on a paper towel to absorb excess oil before glazing. Glazing too soon can cause the glaze to melt and slide off, ruining the presentation.
Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with glazes and toppings like sprinkles, chocolate, or even powdered matcha for a pop of flavor and color. Your Mochi Doughnuts will look and taste irresistible!

Make Ahead Options

These Mochi Doughnuts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the dry ingredients and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply add the milk and egg, shape your doughnuts, and fry them fresh. Additionally, you can form the doughnut rings and place them on a parchment-lined tray; cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To maintain their chewy texture, fry the doughnuts straight from the fridge. After frying, cool slightly before glazing for maximum deliciousness, giving you warm, fresh Mochi Doughnuts with minimal fuss!

Mochi Doughnuts Variations & Substitutions

Elevate your Mochi Doughnuts by exploring these creative customization options that are as delightful as they are delicious!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of glutinous rice flour to maintain a chewy texture without gluten.
Sugar-Free: Substitute granulated sugar with monk fruit sweetener or erythritol for a guilt-free treat without sacrificing sweetness.
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate almond or hazelnut flour into the dough for an extra layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with glazes.
Exotic Glazes: Try unique flavors like matcha, yuzu, or even hibiscus for glazes that take your doughnuts to the next level.
Stuffed Options: Inject fillings like sweet red bean paste, chocolate ganache, or even flavored creams for a fun surprise in every bite!
Spice it Up: Add spices like nutmeg or cardamom directly into the dough for a warm, aromatic twist.
Vegan Delight: For a vegan-friendly version, opt for plant-based milk and a flax egg as previously mentioned. These swaps still yield deliciously chewy results!
Savory Twist: Experiment with adding cheese or herbs to the dough for a savory version that’s perfect as a unique appetizer or snack.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas as you craft your own delicious Mochi Doughnuts. If you’re curious about more creative options, check out our collection of fun dessert recipes that will inspire your next baking adventure!

Mochi Doughnuts Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ripeness of ingredients?
When making Mochi Doughnuts, it’s best to use fresh ingredients. For glutinous rice flour, ensure it’s within the date on the package for optimal chewiness. If you’re using milk, make sure it’s not past its expiration date, as this can affect the flavor and texture of your doughnuts.

What’s the best way to store my Mochi Doughnuts?
Store your Mochi Doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day to maintain their delightful chewiness. If you have leftovers, pop, they can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; however, keep in mind that refrigeration may slightly change their texture.

Can I freeze Mochi Doughnuts for later?
Absolutely! To freeze Mochi Doughnuts, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 2 months. To enjoy them again, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back that delicious warmth and chew.

What should I do if my doughnuts are too chewy or hard?
If your Mochi Doughnuts turn out too chewy or hard, it might be due to over-mixing the dough or frying them for too long. To prevent this in the future, mix the dough just until combined, and fry them for the recommended 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Enjoying them fresh out of the oil can also help achieve that perfect texture!

Are there any allergies to consider when making Mochi Doughnuts?
Yes, if you’re serving Mochi Doughnuts to others, be mindful of common allergens. The recipe includes eggs and can be adjusted to be dairy-free by swapping the milk with plant-based options like almond or oat milk. Always inform your guests about the ingredients used, especially if they have specific dietary restrictions or allergies.

Can I modify the recipe for dietary reasons?
Certainly! To make Mochi Doughnuts vegan-friendly, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal plus 2.5 tbsp water). Additionally, use almond milk or oat milk instead of dairy milk. You can also swap out granulated sugar for coconut sugar to cater to lower glycemic diets!