Name: Easy Sakura Cherry Blossom Mochi Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 2 cups sweet rice flour (mochi flour); 1 cup water; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Edible cherry blossom petals (pickled or fresh, pesticide-free); Cornstarch (for dusting)

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Introduction

Celebrate the beauty and fleeting charm of cherry blossoms with this Easy Sakura Cherry Blossom Recipe. These delicate mochi treats capture the essence of spring, offering a gentle sweetness and a touch of elegance perfect for any occasion.

Three smooth, round mochi balls sit on a white plate dusted lightly with white powder inside a dark wooden tray. Each mochi has a different soft pastel color: one pale pink, one creamy white, and one light blush pink. On top of each mochi is a delicate pink flower with visible yellow stamens, adding a gentle floral touch. The tray rests on a white marbled textured surface scattered with matching pink cherry blossoms. The overall look is soft, light, and elegant with a focus on smooth textures and pastel colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups sweet rice flour (mochi flour)
1 cup water
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
Edible cherry blossom petals (pickled or fresh)
Cornstarch (for dusting)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the cherry blossom petals by gently rinsing fresh, pesticide-free petals in cold water and patting them dry. If using pickled petals, drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine sweet rice flour, sugar, and salt. Gradually add water while stirring until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
Step 3: Transfer the mixture to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and microwave for 1 minute. Stir the dough and microwave for another minute. Repeat until the dough becomes sticky and slightly translucent, about 3-4 minutes total.
Step 4: Dust your work surface with cornstarch. Transfer the hot dough onto the surface and let it cool for a few minutes. Divide the dough into small portions about the size of a golf ball.
Step 5: Flatten each portion, place a cherry blossom petal in the center, then fold the dough around the petal and pinch to seal.
Step 6: Lightly dust each mochi piece with cornstarch to prevent sticking.
Step 7: Serve your sakura mochi treats fresh, ideally paired with green tea, or store them as needed.

Tips & Variations

Use high-quality sweet rice flour for the best mochi texture.
Handle cherry blossom petals gently to avoid tearing them.
Try adding red bean paste or fruit fillings for a lovely twist.
For a stronger cherry blossom flavor, add cherry blossom extract or syrup to the dough.
Create sakura ice cream by incorporating petals into homemade ice cream, or decorate cakes with petals for a stunning look.

Storage

These mochi treats are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days to maintain softness. For longer storage, dust them with cornstarch and freeze. Thaw before serving and enjoy!

How to Serve

Three round mochi desserts are placed in a shallow white bowl, each covered with a light dusting of powdered sugar. The mochi come in three colors: one pink, one pale pink, and one white, all smooth and soft with a slightly frosted look. Each mochi is topped with a small, delicate pink flower with yellow stamen in the center. The bowl sits inside a dark wooden tray with handles, resting on a white marbled surface. Around the tray and bowl are scattered pink cherry blossoms and branches, adding a fresh, natural touch to the presentation. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular cherry blossoms from my garden?

Only use cherry blossoms that are confirmed edible and pesticide-free. If unsure, it’s safer to use pickled cherry blossom petals or petals from reputable sources.

How do I prevent the mochi from sticking to my hands and surfaces?

Dust your hands and work surface generously with cornstarch while shaping the mochi. This prevents sticking and makes the dough easier to handle.