If you’ve been on Instagram or TikTok lately, you’ve probably seen a mochi donut. They look super cute, kind of like a donut made of little bubbles stuck together in a ring. People are going crazy for them. But what actually is a mochi donut?
It’s not your regular donut. And it’s not just mochi either. It’s a mix of both. Mochi is a chewy rice cake that’s popular in Japan. When you take that chewy texture and mix it with the shape and idea of a donut, you get a mochi donut. It’s soft on the inside, a little crispy on the outside, and super stretchy and bouncy when you bite into it.
Most mochi donuts are made with rice flour instead of wheat flour. That’s what gives them their special chewy feel. They’re often shaped into rings made up of small round balls. This shape makes them fun to pull apart and eat. They’re also great for photos, which is one reason they’ve gone viral.
Another reason people love mochi donuts is the wide range of flavors. You’ll find classic ones like chocolate or vanilla, but also matcha, taro, ube, black sesame, strawberry milk, and even flavors inspired by cereal or candy. Some are glazed, some are dusted with sugar or toppings. Every shop gets creative with how they make them.
They started trending in places like California and New York, but now you can find mochi donut shops popping up all over. People line up to try them. Some say it’s the texture. Some say it’s the look. Others just love trying new food trends. But one thing’s for sure, they’re more than just a pretty dessert.
So if you see one, don’t be shy. Grab it, pull it apart, and take a bite. There’s a good chance you’ll understand what the hype is about.