Description
Delight in these soft and chewy Banana Mochi Rolls, a traditional Japanese dessert featuring glutinous rice flour mochi wrapped around fresh bananas and a creamy whipped filling. Lightly sweetened and perfect for a gluten-free treat, these rolls are easy to prepare in the microwave and offer a unique texture combined with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas.
Ingredients
Scale
Mochi Base
- 1 cup glutinous rice flour (mochiko)
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cornstarch (for dusting)
Filling
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1/2 cup whipped cream or sweetened condensed milk
Optional Toppings
- Cocoa powder
- Matcha powder
- Shredded coconut
Instructions
- Prepare Mochi Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, whisk together the glutinous rice flour, sugar, salt, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth mixture without lumps.
- Microwave Mochi: Cover the bowl loosely with plastic wrap and microwave on high for 1 minute. Remove and stir the mixture thoroughly.
- Continue Cooking Mochi: Microwave the mochi mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it becomes thick, smooth, and slightly translucent. This should take about 2 to 3 minutes total.
- Cool and Prepare Work Surface: Allow the mochi to cool slightly. Generously dust a clean surface with cornstarch to prevent sticking, then transfer the mochi onto it. Dust the top with additional cornstarch.
- Roll Out Mochi: Using your hands or a rolling pin, roll the mochi into a rectangle approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Add Filling: Evenly spread a thin layer of whipped cream or sweetened condensed milk over the mochi surface.
- Prepare Bananas: Peel the ripe bananas and place them at one edge of the mochi rectangle.
- Roll Up Mochi: Carefully roll the mochi around the bananas using the cornstarch-dusted surface to prevent sticking, forming a tight roll.
- Chill the Roll: Wrap the mochi roll tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set and firm up.
- Slice and Serve: Once chilled, unwrap and slice the roll into 1-inch pieces using a sharp knife dusted with cornstarch. Sprinkle with optional cocoa powder, matcha, or shredded coconut before serving if desired.
Notes
- Use very ripe but firm bananas for the best flavor and texture to prevent mushiness.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with coconut milk and whipped cream with coconut cream.
- Keep the mochi refrigerated until ready to serve. It is best enjoyed within one day of preparation to maintain freshness and texture.
- Ensure surfaces and utensils are well dusted with cornstarch to prevent sticking during rolling and slicing.
