Matcha Cream Cheese Daifuku Recipe
Introduction
Matcha Cream Cheese Daifuku is a delightful Japanese sweet that combines the earthy flavor of matcha with smooth, creamy cheese wrapped in soft mochi. This treat is perfect for a unique dessert or an elegant snack.
Ingredients
- 1 cup glutinous rice flour
- 1 teaspoon matcha powder
- 4 ounces cream cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- Potato starch or cornstarch for dusting
Instructions
- Step 1: In a bowl, combine glutinous rice flour, matcha powder, and sugar. Gradually add water and mix until smooth.
- Step 2: Pour the mixture into a heatproof dish and steam for about 15 minutes until the dough is cooked and slightly translucent.
- Step 3: Dust your work surface and hands with starch. Transfer the hot dough and knead gently to smooth it out while it’s still warm but safe to handle.
- Step 4: Divide the dough into equal portions. Flatten each portion, place a piece of cream cheese in the center, and carefully wrap the dough around it, sealing the edges.
- Step 5: Shape each filled mochi into a smooth ball, dust with starch to prevent sticking, and chill slightly before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use room temperature cream cheese for easier wrapping and smoother filling.
- For a sweeter filling, mix cream cheese with a little honey or powdered sugar.
- Substitute matcha powder with other flavors like cocoa powder or ground sesame seeds for variety.
Storage
Store daifuku in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To enjoy them soft, let them come to room temperature before eating or warm them briefly in the microwave.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead and keep it covered to prevent drying. However, it’s best to fill and shape the daifuku fresh for optimal texture.
What can I use if I don’t have a steamer?
You can steam the dough using a heatproof plate or bowl placed on a rack inside a large pot with a lid, ensuring water doesn’t touch the dough.
PrintMatcha Cream Cheese Daifuku Recipe
This Matcha Cream Cheese Daifuku recipe offers a delightful fusion of traditional Japanese mochi with a rich, creamy twist. Soft and chewy glutinous rice flour dough is infused with vibrant matcha green tea powder, then wrapped around a smooth cream cheese filling for a perfect balance of earthy bitterness and creamy sweetness. These bite-sized treats are steamed to achieve their characteristic chewy texture and make an elegant dessert or snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 daifuku pieces 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Steaming
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup glutinous rice flour
- 2 teaspoons matcha green tea powder
- 1/2 cup water (adjust as needed)
- 1/4 cup sugar
Filling Ingredients
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (optional, for sweetness)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour, matcha powder, and sugar. Gradually add water while stirring until a smooth, slightly thick batter forms with no lumps.
- Steam the dough: Pour the batter into a heatproof dish and steam over boiling water for about 15 minutes until the dough becomes translucent and sticky. Remove from the steamer and while hot, knead the dough with a wet spatula or hands to make it pliable and smooth.
- Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Chill in the refrigerator to firm up slightly, making it easier to handle.
- Shape the daifuku: Dust your hands and a work surface with glutinous rice flour to prevent sticking. Divide the steamed dough into 8 equal pieces and flatten each piece into a small round disc.
- Fill the daifuku: Place a spoonful of cream cheese filling in the center of each dough disc. Carefully fold and pinch the edges together to seal the filling inside, shaping into a smooth ball.
- Final touches: Lightly dust each daifuku with additional glutinous rice flour to prevent sticking. Serve immediately or chill briefly before enjoying for a firmer texture.
Notes
- Ensure the dough is handled quickly before it cools and hardens, as it becomes less pliable.
- Matcha powder quality affects flavor—use a high-quality ceremonial or culinary grade for best taste.
- You can substitute cream cheese with sweet red bean paste for a more traditional daifuku experience.
- Store leftover daifuku in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.
Keywords: Matcha, Daifuku, Cream Cheese, Mochi, Japanese Dessert, Steamed Dessert, Green Tea Mochi
