Vegan Cream Cheese & Strawberry Mochi

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. In a small bowl, combine the vegan cream cheese, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Using a small spoon or piping bag, place a dollop of the cream cheese mixture onto a piece of parchment paper. Flatten slightly and place a strawberry in the center.
3. Wrap the cream cheese mixture around each strawberry to create a sealed ball. Freeze for 20–30 minutes to firm up.

Step 2: Make the Mochi Dough

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, whisk together the glutinous rice flour, sugar, and water until smooth.
2. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a microwave-safe lid and microwave on high for 1 minute.
3. Stir the mixture with a wet spatula. Microwave again for 30–45 seconds, stir, and repeat until the dough is no longer liquid and turns slightly translucent (usually about 2–3 minutes total, depending on your microwave).
4. Let the mochi cool slightly before handling.

Step 3: Shape the Mochi

1. Dust a clean surface with cornstarch or potato starch to prevent sticking.
2. Transfer the cooked mochi dough onto the surface and dust the top generously with more starch.
3. Cut into 6 equal pieces using a dough cutter or knife.
4. Flatten each piece into a small disk (about 3–4 inches wide), keeping your hands and tools dusted with starch.

Step 4: Assemble the Mochi

1. Place a frozen cream cheese & strawberry ball in the center of each mochi disk.
2. Carefully fold the dough over the filling, pinching to seal the edges completely.
3. Flip seam-side down and gently shape into a smooth ball. Repeat with remaining dough and filling.

Serving Tips

• Best Served Chilled: Let mochi rest in the fridge for 15 minutes before serving so the dough softens and becomes tender again.
• Pair with Tea: These mochi pair beautifully with green tea, jasmine, or iced matcha for a refreshing contrast.
• Use a Cupcake Liner: To keep them from sticking and for a pretty presentation, serve each mochi in a paper liner.

Optional Variations

• Flavor the Dough: Add a few drops of natural strawberry or matcha extract to the mochi dough for color and extra flavor.
• Chocolate Cream Cheese: Mix in a teaspoon of cocoa powder or melted vegan chocolate to the cream cheese filling.
• Other Fruits: Substitute strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or mango chunks for seasonal variety.
• Sugar-Free: Use a sugar alternative like stevia or monk fruit sweetener in the dough and filling.

Final Thoughts

These Vegan Cream Cheese & Strawberry Mochi are soft, creamy, and totally crave-worthy. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a show-stopping treat that’s as satisfying as it is beautiful. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to enjoy something sweet and plant-based, this mochi recipe is a winner.

Try them once, and they’ll become a favorite in your vegan dessert rotation. Chewy, fruity, creamy—what more could you ask for?

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