Black Sesame Mochi Donuts Recipe

If you have a soft spot for treats that are chewy, subtly sweet, and bursting with an intriguing nutty flavor, you are going to fall head over heels for these Black Sesame Mochi Donuts. Combining the delightful chewiness of mochi with the unique, toasty depth of black sesame, these donuts offer a texture and taste experience unlike any traditional donut you’ve had. Whether you’re craving a midday pick-me-up or a conversation-starting dessert, these donuts bring a perfect balance of fun and sophistication that’s sure to captivate your palate and impress your friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind these Black Sesame Mochi Donuts lies in their simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect chewy texture, moist crumb, and rich sesame flavor, making every donut a small masterpiece of flavor and mouthfeel.

• 1 1/2 cups glutinous rice flour: The key to that iconic chewy mochi texture, providing structure without heaviness.
• 1/4 cup almond flour: Adds a subtle nuttiness and gives the donuts a tender crumb.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter just enough to balance the earthiness of the black sesame.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Ensures the donuts rise just right, keeping them light despite the dense flours.
• 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, preventing the sweetness from becoming flat.
• 1/2 cup whole milk: Brings moisture and richness for a soft, tender bite.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the donuts’ structure.
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps create that tender crumb.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, aromatic note that complements the black sesame beautifully.
• 1/2 cup black sesame seeds, ground: The star of the glaze, offering that deep, roasted flavor and attractive speckled appearance.
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweet base for the glaze, balancing the bold black sesame taste.
• 2 tbsp milk: Thins the glaze to the perfect consistency for dipping or drizzling.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for glaze): Adds an extra hint of warmth to the sesame glaze.

How to Make Black Sesame Mochi Donuts

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan thoroughly to ensure your mochi donuts come out with those perfect edges and an easy release. Setting the oven temperature right is essential because these donuts bake quickly and you want that lovely golden exterior without drying out the chewy inside.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the glutinous rice flour, almond flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures all the powders are evenly distributed. The combination of flours here is what creates that unmistakable mochi texture paired with a subtle nuttiness.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the whole milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. The wet mixture will help hydrate the flours and provide moisture and richness to the donuts.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined and smooth. Take care not to overmix; a smooth, slightly thick batter is what you’re aiming for, perfect for piping or spooning into the donut molds.

Step 5: Fill and Bake

Transfer the batter to a piping bag or use a spoon to fill each mold in the donut pan about three-quarters full. This allows room for rising without spilling over. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the donuts brighten to a delicate golden hue and feel set to the touch.

Step 6: Prepare the Black Sesame Glaze

While the donuts cool, mix the ground black sesame seeds, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until you get a smooth, luscious glaze. This glaze not only adds a sweet contrast but brings out the nutty sesame aroma that makes these donuts unforgettable.

Step 7: Glaze and Let Set

Once the donuts have cooled completely to room temperature, dip each one into the black sesame glaze, letting excess drip off before placing them on a wire rack to set. The glaze hardens so beautifully, giving a slight crunch that contrasts with the mochi softness inside.

How to Serve Black Sesame Mochi Donuts

Garnishes

For an extra flourish, sprinkle some toasted black sesame seeds or a pinch of edible gold dust on top of the glaze. These small touches elevate the donuts from delightful to show-stopping, adding texture and a bit of shimmer that’s perfect for sharing on special occasions or just treating yourself.

Side Dishes

Serve these mochi donuts alongside a steaming cup of matcha green tea or a rich black coffee to complement the robust sesame flavor. Light fruit salads with citrus or berries also provide a refreshing contrast, balancing the sweetness and chewiness with bright, juicy notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the donuts on a beautiful cake stand for a centerpiece or serve them in cute individual boxes tied with ribbon for party favors. If you want a playful spin, slice them and layer with sweet red bean paste and whipped cream for an Asian-inspired donut sandwich that’s sure to wow!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Black Sesame Mochi Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and chewy for about 1 to 2 days. Be sure to avoid refrigeration as it can dry them out and toughen the mochi texture.

Freezing

If you want to keep them longer, freeze your glazed donuts on a sheet tray first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip bag. Properly stored, they maintain excellent quality for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

To bring back the softness and slightly warm the donuts, pop them in a microwave for about 15 seconds. For the best texture, avoid overheating, which can make the mochi gummy. A quick reheat revives their delightful chewiness and gently softens the glaze.

FAQs

Do Black Sesame Mochi Donuts taste like traditional donuts?

They offer a unique twist with a chewy, mochi-like texture and a nutty sesame flavor, quite different from the cakey or fluffy traditional donuts. They’re a delightful fusion of textures and tastes.

Can I substitute black sesame seeds with something else?

You could experiment with white sesame seeds or even matcha powder for a different flavor, but black sesame brings a distinct, rich nuttiness and color that really defines this recipe.

Is glutinous rice flour the same as regular rice flour?

No, glutinous rice flour is sticky and chewy when cooked, essential for the mochi texture, whereas regular rice flour is more crumbly. Using the right flour is crucial to get those perfect mochi donuts.

Can these donuts be baked without a donut pan?

A donut pan is ideal for their shape, but you can also pipe the batter into silicone molds or even bake them as small cake rings on a lined tray, though baking times and shapes will vary.

Are Black Sesame Mochi Donuts vegan-friendly?

This recipe contains eggs, milk, and butter, so it’s not vegan as is. However, you can try vegan substitutes like plant-based milk, flax eggs, and dairy-free butter to experiment with a vegan version.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about making and sharing Black Sesame Mochi Donuts, whether it’s a cozy weekend treat or a crowd-pleasing delight for friends. Their chewy texture, combined with the deeply nutty glaze, makes every bite feel like a celebration. So grab your ingredients, enjoy the process, and get ready to savor a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll quickly become a beloved favorite in your kitchen and beyond.

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