Strawberry Mochi Ice Cream
Japanese Winter Dessert, Yukimi Daifuku Mochi Ice Cream for Summer
If you're familiar with Yukimi Daifuku ice cream in Japan, you'll love this treat. For those who aren't, Yukimi Daifuku is a delightful Japanese dessert that features vanilla ice cream wrapped in a thin layer of mochi.
The name "Yukimi" means snow-viewing, reflecting its resemblance to a snowball dusted with powdery snow, which is actually starch. Interestingly, this ice cream was originally sold in winter, enjoyed while watching the snow fall. I still remember craving Yukimi Daifuku during those chilly months.
Now that summer is here, my kids constantly ask for ice cream. It was the perfect time to create something special and share the magic of Yukimi Daifuku with them. The challenge is to eat it cleanly, so next time, I'll make smaller portions for one-bite enjoyment!
RECIPE
Servings: 8-10 pcs
Time: 30 min (+ freezing for 2 hours)
Ingredients:
3/4 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp sugar
1 cup shiratama flour
1 1/2 cups water
1/3 cup sugar
potato starch (for dusting)
Tools:
Instructions:
In a bowl, whip the heavy cream with sugar until it forms stiff peaks.
Wash the strawberries, remove the stems, and pat them dry.
Place a sheet of plastic wrap on the counter. Add a spoonful of whipped cream and place a whole strawberry in the center. Wrap the strawberry with the cream by closing the plastic wrap around it.
Freeze the cream-filled strawberries for 2-3 hours.
In another bowl, combine the Shiratama flour, sugar, and half of the water. Mix well, then microwave for 2 minutes. Stir the dough with a spatula and microwave for another minute. Repeat this process two more times.
Transfer the hot mochi dough onto a plate dusted with potato starch. Coat the dough with starch to prevent sticking, then divide it into 7-8 pieces.
Remove the plastic wrap from the cream-filled strawberries. Spread a piece of mochi dough on your palm and wrap it around the cream filling to form a ball.
What is Yukimi Daifuku?
Yukimi Daifuku is a popular Japanese confection that combines the chewy texture of mochi with the creamy richness of ice cream. The traditional version features vanilla ice cream wrapped in a thin layer of soft, sweet mochi, creating a unique and delightful dessert experience. Its name, "Yukimi Daifuku," translates to "snow-viewing daifuku," which beautifully captures its delicate, snowball-like appearance dusted with a fine layer of starch.
The Origins of Yukimi Daifuku
Yukimi Daifuku was first introduced by Lotte, a Japanese confectionery company, in 1981. The idea was to merge traditional Japanese sweets with a modern twist, appealing to both young and old. The innovation lay not only in its flavor and texture but also in its presentation, which evoked the serene beauty of snow-covered landscapes.
A Unique Marketing Concept: Winter Ice Cream
One of the most interesting aspects of Yukimi Daifuku is its unconventional marketing strategy. Unlike typical ice cream products that are primarily promoted during the hot summer months, Yukimi Daifuku was launched as a winter treat. The concept was inspired by the Japanese tradition of enjoying the serene beauty of snowfalls, known as "yukimi," while indulging in sweet treats.
The idea was to create an experience that combined the cold, crisp air of winter with the creamy, comforting taste of ice cream. By marketing Yukimi Daifuku as a winter dessert, Lotte aimed to evoke a sense of cozy indulgence, encouraging people to savor this sweet treat while watching the snow fall outside. This strategy not only set Yukimi Daifuku apart from other ice cream products but also created a nostalgic, seasonal connection for many consumers.
The Legacy of Yukimi Daifuku
Over the years, Yukimi Daifuku has become a beloved treat in Japan and around the world. Its success has inspired a variety of flavors, from classic vanilla to matcha green tea and even seasonal limited editions. The combination of chewy mochi and smooth ice cream continues to captivate dessert lovers, making Yukimi Daifuku a timeless favorite.
Whether enjoyed in the quiet of winter or as a refreshing summer treat, Yukimi Daifuku remains a symbol of innovative confectionery that bridges traditional Japanese sweets with modern dessert trends. Its unique marketing concept and delightful taste have secured its place as an iconic Japanese dessert enjoyed by generations.
