Sweet Ube & Coconut Dream Mochi Cakes
These delicate mochi cakes are a harmonious blend of earthy ube and creamy coconut, offering a subtly sweet and satisfying dessert experience. Each bite delivers a chewy texture with a vibrant purple hue, making them as visually appealing as they are delicious. They are perfect for special occasions or a delightful afternoon treat.

Prep Time
180 min
Difficulty
Hard
Servings
12
Calories
280 kcal
Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, whisk together glutinous rice flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and salt.
~2 min - 2
In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, water, and the remaining 0.5 cup of granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Do not boil.
~5 min - 3
Gradually pour the hot coconut milk mixture into the dry ingredients, whisking continuously until a smooth batter forms. Stir in the ube extract and melted butter until well combined.
~3 min - 4
Prepare your steamer by lining the bamboo steamer basket with parchment paper, leaving some holes for steam to escape. Fill a large pot or wok with water to about 1 inch deep and bring to a rolling boil.
~10 min - 5
Pour the mochi batter into the prepared steamer basket. Cover and steam over medium-high heat for 45-60 minutes, or until the mochi is cooked through and no longer sticky.
~60 min - 6
While the mochi is steaming, place cornstarch on a clean surface or a large plate. This will be used for dusting.
- 7
Once the mochi is cooked, carefully remove the steamer basket from the pot. Let it cool slightly for about 10-15 minutes until it's handleable but still warm.
~15 min - 8
Dust your cutting board and knife with cornstarch. Transfer the warm mochi to the cornstarch-dusted surface. Cut the mochi into desired portions (e.g., 12 squares).
~5 min - 9
Roll each mochi piece in the remaining cornstarch to prevent sticking, then gently roll in toasted shredded coconut.
~5 min - 10
Allow the mochi cakes to cool completely before serving.
~60 min
Tips
- For a more intense ube flavor, you can add a touch of ube halaya (purple yam jam) to the batter along with the extract.
- Store leftover mochi in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Refrigeration can make them hard, so it's best to consume them fresh.