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Matcha Cream Cheese Daifuku Recipe

4.8 from 102 reviews

This Matcha Cream Cheese Daifuku recipe offers a delightful fusion of traditional Japanese mochi with a creamy, slightly tangy cream cheese filling infused with vibrant matcha. Soft and chewy on the outside, with a smooth, sweet, and earthy center, these daifuku make for an elegant and satisfying treat perfect for dessert or teatime.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough:

  • 1 cup glutinous rice flour (mochiko)
  • 2 tbsp matcha powder
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 3/4 cup water
  • cornstarch or potato starch for dusting

Filling:

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 12 tsp sugar (optional, to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Portion into small balls (about 1 tablespoon each), then freeze or refrigerate until firm.
  2. Make the Dough: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine glutinous rice flour, matcha powder, sugar, and water. Stir until smooth and well incorporated.
  3. Steam the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp cloth. Steam the dough for about 15 minutes until it becomes translucent and sticky.
  4. Knead the Dough: Carefully remove the hot dough and dust a clean surface with cornstarch. Transfer the dough onto the surface and let it cool slightly. Dust hands with starch and knead the dough gently to form a smooth mass.
  5. Shape the Daifuku: Divide the dough into equal portions (about 8-10). Flatten each piece with your hands into a circle. Place a cream cheese ball in the center, then pinch the edges to completely seal the filling inside.
  6. Final Touch: Lightly dust the finished daifuku with more starch to prevent sticking. Serve immediately or chill for firmer texture.

Notes

  • Use glutinous rice flour specifically, not regular rice flour, to achieve the characteristic chewy texture.
  • Keep the filling chilled to make shaping easier and prevent melting.
  • Dusting with starch is essential to avoid stickiness during shaping and storage.
  • Daifuku are best eaten fresh but can be stored refrigerated for up to 2 days.
  • Adjust sweetness in the filling or dough according to your taste preferences.

Keywords: matcha, cream cheese, daifuku, mochi, Japanese dessert, steamed dessert