# Shanghai Butter Mochi: The Crisp, Chewy Pleasure
Shanghai butter mochi, also referred to as butter tteok, has captured the attention of the internet with its distinct texture and pleasing taste. This dessert features a golden-brown, crunchy shell and a tender, chewy inside, making it a favorite for those who love soft desserts. It’s not only simple to prepare but also inherently gluten-free, making it available for many.
## What is Shanghai Butter Mochi?
Hailing from Korea, butter tteok is a popular baked delicacy that has exploded in popularity across social media. The primary ingredients include glutinous rice flour, butter, milk, and eggs, which are combined and baked until a crispy outer crust forms. This version, akin to Hawaiian butter mochi, delivers a bit more crunch, echoing the contrasting textures found in a French canele.
## How to Make Shanghai Butter Mochi
### Ingredients:
– **Butter**: Crucial for creating that crispy, golden-brown crust.
– **Sugar**: Standard granulated sugar contributes sweetness and facilitates caramelization.
– **Egg**: Adds richness and aids in the mochi’s rise.
– **Vanilla**: Provides an additional layer of flavor.
– **Milk**: Whole milk is preferred due to its fat content, but any milk or substitute can suffice.
– **Glutinous Rice Flour**: The essential component that imparts a chewy texture to the mochi.
– **Tapioca Flour**: Helps to elevate the texture.
### Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Pan**: Generously grease a muffin pan or any pan with small cavities. Optionally, sprinkle sugar in the cavities for an added crunchy base.
2. **Melt Ingredients**: In a saucepan, warm the milk and butter over low heat until the butter is fully melted, ensuring it doesn’t boil.
3. **Mix Wet Ingredients**: In a bowl, whisk the egg, sugar, and vanilla until light and fluffy.
4. **Combine Mixtures**: Slowly whisk in the milk and butter combination.
5. **Add Dry Ingredients**: Mix in glutinous rice flour and tapioca flour, making sure there are no lumps.
6. **Strain (Optional)**: To achieve a smoother batter, pass it through a fine mesh sieve.
7. **Pour and Bake**: Pour the batter into the prepared molds and bake until golden brown and crispy.
8. **Cool**: Take out from the oven, let cool on a wire rack, and enjoy as the mochi crisps up.
## Storing and Recrisping Butter Mochi
If there are leftovers, let the mochi cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for a few days but may lose their crispiness. To regain the crunch, lightly toast them in a toaster oven at 350°F for 4-5 minutes or air-fry for 1-3 minutes.
## Nutrition Facts
Each serving of Shanghai butter mochi contains roughly:
– **Calories**: 90
– **Fat**: 2.2g
– **Carbohydrates**: 12.6g
– **Protein**: 1.7g
This treat is not excessively sweet, making it an ideal snack or dessert choice for those who favor a more balanced flavor profile.
## Conclusion
Shanghai butter mochi is an enticing treat that merges crispy edges with a chewy center, creating an irresistible dessert. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is simple and fulfilling. Enjoy creating and sharing this viral favorite with friends and family!