I have an irresistible fondness for chewy desserts. My upbringing involved indulging in a variety of Chinese delicacies known for their springy textures—delights like nuo mi ci (glutinous dumplings filled with ground peanuts and sugar), shao bing (crispy rice cakes brimming with red bean paste), and nian gao (baked sticky rice cake). The sensation of sinking one’s teeth into something bouncy is undeniably gratifying. In Taiwan, this coveted texture even has a specific term: QQ.
In today’s world, chewy treats that evoke memories of my childhood favorites are surprisingly abundant. In my hometown of New York City, bubble tea spots are as common as Starbucks, and mochi ice cream is readily available at most grocery stores. Yet, one product I eagerly anticipate returning to shelves every year has finally made its reappearance: Trader Joe’s Mochi Cake Mix.
Trader Joe’s Mochi Cake Mix
Price: $4.99 for a single box of cake mix
Why I Adore It: This cake mix is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. I take pleasure in experimenting with different flavors by adding extracts, cocoa powder, matcha, or citrus zest to customize it to my liking.
My Affection for Trader Joe’s Mochi Cake Mix
My introduction to butter mochi transpired during a trip to Hawaii in 2009, and its resemblance to my cherished Chinese sweets was striking. Although the exact origins of this coconut-infused rice cake are unclear, its resemblance to Filipino bibingka and the utilization of glutinous rice flour, a common ingredient in Japan, suggest it may have roots in immigrant communities on the island.
Crafting butter mochi from scratch is not overly complicated, typically calling for glutinous rice flour, coconut milk, eggs, and butter, among other baking essentials. However, on occasions that call for a simple yet rewarding dessert, Trader Joe’s boxed mix is a convenient solution. Not only is it effortless to prepare (the box even states “just add water, eggs, and butter!”), but the resulting cake—fragrant, chewy, and boasting a delicate golden crust—rivals the taste of many homemade recipes I’ve sampled.
This exceptional flavor is likely attributed to the mix’s straightforward ingredient list, comprising sweet rice flour, sugar, coconut milk powder, and leavener. Each year, when this seasonal gem graces the shelves once more, I make sure to stock up, a sentiment shared by many as it has sold out multiple times at my local Trader Joe’s.
Innovative Uses for Trader Joe’s Mochi Cake Mix
What I particularly adore about this mix is its versatility. Adding a touch of vanilla or almond extract, incorporating cocoa or matcha powder, or infusing it with citrus zest are all effortless ways to modify its
