Mochi ice cream is a delightful fusion of chewy rice dough and creamy ice cream, offering a unique dessert experience. Originating from Japanese traditions, this treat wraps premium ice cream in a soft, sticky mochi shell. Its popularity has soared globally, making it a favorite for snackers and dessert lovers.
The bite-sized, gluten-free nature of mochi ice cream makes it a perfect portion-controlled treat. With flavors ranging from classic vanilla to exotic matcha, there’s something for every palate. It’s widely available in grocery stores, specialty markets, and online.
This guide explores the best mochi ice cream brands for 2025, highlighting their flavors, quality, and availability. From mainstream to artisanal options, you’ll find top picks to satisfy your cravings. Let’s dive into the sweet, chewy world of mochi ice cream!
What Makes Mochi Ice Cream Special
Mochi ice cream combines a soft, chewy exterior with a creamy ice cream center. The mochi dough, made from glutinous rice flour, adds a unique texture. This contrast of chewy and creamy is what sets it apart.
Most mochi ice cream is naturally gluten-free, appealing to dietary needs. It’s also low in calories, often 70–110 per piece, making it a light dessert. This balance of indulgence and portion control drives its popularity.
Brands innovate with flavors like mango, green tea, and even seasonal options. The small size makes it easy to enjoy without overindulging. It’s a versatile treat for snacks or parties.
History of Mochi Ice Cream
Mochi ice cream was invented in the United States in the early 1990s by Frances Hashimoto and Joel Friedman at Mikawaya. Inspired by Japanese daifuku, they wrapped ice cream in mochi dough, creating a new dessert. It debuted in Hawaii in 1994, quickly gaining a following.
The treat evolved from traditional Japanese mochi filled with red bean paste. Mikawaya’s innovation made it a global hit, now found in supermarkets and restaurants. Its rise reflects growing interest in Asian-inspired desserts.
Today, brands experiment with modern and traditional flavors. From strawberry to black sesame, mochi ice cream continues to evolve. Its cultural roots and creative twists keep it trendy.
Top Mochi Ice Cream Brands
Several brands lead the mochi ice cream market with quality and variety. My/Mochi is a major player, offering over 20 flavors like Double Chocolate and Strawberry Boba. It’s widely available at Walmart for $6.99 per box.
Bubbies, a Hawaii-based brand, is known for premium ice cream and chewy mochi. Their Pistachio flavor is a standout, priced at $6.99 on Amazon. They focus on natural ingredients and bold taste.
Mochidoki offers artisanal mochi with unique flavors like Lychee and Black Sesame. Their premium quality comes at $10–$12 per box, available online. They’re celebrated by Food & Wine for innovative pairings.
What Are the Best Mochi Ice Cream Brands
To answer the question, “What are the best mochi ice cream brands?” My/Mochi leads for its accessibility and flavor variety. With 24 flavors, including Mint Chocolate Chip and S’mores, it earns a 4.6/5 rating on Tasting Table for its creamy ice cream and soft mochi. A six-pack costs $6.49–$6.99 at Target.
Bubbies is a close contender, praised for its perfect mochi-to-ice-cream ratio. Their Pistachio Mochi, with 80 calories per piece, is a fan favorite on The Kitchn for its rich flavor and chewy texture. It’s priced at $6.99 for six at Whole Foods.
Mochidoki stands out for artisanal quality, offering flavors like Toasted Rice and Matcha. Priced at $10–$12 online, it’s lauded by Forbes for its chef-driven specials. It’s ideal for those seeking premium, unique options.
Comparison of Mochi Ice Cream Brands
Here’s a table comparing three top mochi ice cream brands:
| Brand | Key Features | Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| My/Mochi | 24 flavors, widely available, vegan options | $6.49–$6.99 (6-pack) |
| Bubbies | Premium ice cream, natural ingredients | $6.99 (6-pack) |
| Mochidoki | Artisanal, unique flavors, gluten-free | $10–$12 (6-pack) |
This table highlights the diversity of mochi ice cream brands. My/Mochi offers variety, Bubbies focuses on quality, and Mochidoki delivers premium craftsmanship. Choose based on budget and flavor preferences.
Vegan and Dairy-Free Mochi Ice Cream
Many brands offer vegan mochi ice cream for dietary needs. My/Mochi’s Vegan Strawberry uses coconut milk, with 70 calories per piece. It’s praised for its creamy texture at $6.49 per box.
Buono Mochi specializes in dairy-free, gluten-free options. Their mango flavor is a hit for its authentic taste and 90 calories per piece. It’s available at select Asian markets for $7.99.
Mochidoki’s vegan flavors, like Lychee, use plant-based ingredients. Priced at $10–$12 online, they’re gluten-free and creamy. These cater to health-conscious and vegan eaters.
Unique Flavors to Try
Mochi ice cream brands offer bold, creative flavors. My/Mochi’s Strawberry Boba combines strawberry ice cream with a boba-flavored core. It’s a fun, trendy option at $6.99 per box.
Bubbies’ Passion Fruit Mochi is vibrant and tropical, with a tangy kick. It’s a refreshing choice at 80 calories per piece. Find it at Whole Foods for $6.99.
Mochidoki’s Black Sesame Mochi offers a nutty, earthy flavor. Priced at $10 online, it’s a sophisticated pick. It’s a favorite for its unique taste profile.
Tips for Enjoying Mochi Ice Cream
Let mochi ice cream thaw for 1–2 minutes before eating. This softens the mochi and ice cream for the perfect chewy-creamy texture. Don’t let it sit out too long to avoid melting.
Pair mochi with green tea or coffee for a balanced dessert. The bitterness complements the sweet mochi. It’s a traditional Japanese pairing that enhances the experience.
Store mochi in the freezer at 0°F in its original packaging. This prevents freezer burn and keeps it fresh for up to a month. Avoid frequent thawing to maintain texture.
Where to Buy Mochi Ice Cream
Major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Kroger stock My/Mochi and Bubbies. Prices range from $6.49–$7.99 for a six-pack. Check store apps for sales or bulk deals.
Whole Foods and Asian markets like 99 Ranch carry Mikawaya and Maeda-en. These are priced at $6.49–$7.99 and offer traditional flavors. Look for seasonal options like pumpkin.
Online, Mochidoki and My/Mochi offer direct shipping. Amazon and Instacart deliver frozen, with prices starting at $6.99. Free shipping often applies for orders over $100.
Homemade Mochi Ice Cream
Making mochi ice cream at home is fun and customizable. Scoop small balls of vegan or dairy ice cream and freeze until firm. Wrap in mochi dough made from glutinous rice flour, sugar, and water.
Steam the dough for 15 minutes, then roll it thin and cut into circles. Wrap around the ice cream balls and freeze for 2 hours. Use coconut milk ice cream for vegan versions.
Add flavors like matcha or cocoa to the mochi dough. This enhances the taste and color. Store in an airtight container to keep fresh.
Mochi Ice Cream for Events
Mochi ice cream is perfect for parties due to its bite-sized nature. Serve My/Mochi’s Double Chocolate in small cups for easy snacking. Add sprinkles for a festive touch.
Create a mochi dessert bar with Bubbies’ Mango and Strawberry flavors. Offer toppings like coconut flakes or fruit puree. Guests can mix and match for fun.
For kids’ events, use My/Mochi’s Strawberry Boba for its colorful appeal. Pair with fruit skewers for a light, playful dessert. It’s a hit with all ages.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
My/Mochi earns high praise for its variety, with a 4.6/5 rating on Tasting Table. Fans love the soft mochi and creamy ice cream, though some find the rice flour dusting excessive. It’s a top seller at Target.
Bubbies is lauded for its premium quality, with a 4.5/5 rating on The Kitchn. Reviewers highlight the Pistachio flavor for its perfect texture balance. Some note inconsistent availability at stores.
Mochidoki’s artisanal flavors get rave reviews from Forbes and Food & Wine. Customers appreciate the unique Lychee and Matcha options but note the higher price. It’s a premium choice for special occasions.
Summary
Mochi ice cream brands offer a delightful mix of chewy mochi and creamy ice cream, perfect for any dessert lover. My/Mochi leads with its wide flavor range and affordability, while Bubbies excels in premium quality. Mochidoki stands out for artisanal, unique flavors, and vegan options like Buono cater to dietary needs. Available at supermarkets, online, or homemade, mochi ice cream is a versatile, gluten-free treat. Explore these brands for a sweet, chewy experience in 2025.
FAQ
What are the best mochi ice cream brands?
My/Mochi, Bubbies, and Mochidoki are top picks. My/Mochi offers 24 flavors, Bubbies focuses on premium quality, and Mochidoki delivers artisanal options. They’re sold at Target, Whole Foods, and online.
Are there vegan mochi ice cream options?
Yes, My/Mochi’s Vegan Strawberry and Buono’s dairy-free flavors use coconut milk. Mochidoki also offers vegan options like Lychee. These are creamy and available at select stores.
Where can I buy mochi ice cream?
Walmart, Target, and Whole Foods stock My/Mochi and Bubbies for $6.49–$7.99. Asian markets carry Mikawaya and Maeda-en. Online, Amazon and Mochidoki offer direct shipping.
How do I make mochi ice cream at home?
Scoop firm ice cream balls, wrap in steamed mochi dough, and freeze for 2 hours. Use glutinous rice flour and coconut milk for vegan versions. Add matcha or cocoa for flavor.
What makes mochi ice cream unique?
Its chewy mochi dough and creamy ice cream create a unique texture. It’s gluten-free and low-calorie (70–110 per piece). Flavors like matcha and mango add variety.