Matcha Chia Mochi Parfait Recipe

Japan, a country where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly, is celebrated for its refined culinary arts and deep respect for nature’s rhythms.

Japanese desserts (wagashi) are typically light, seasonal, and made with ingredients like sweetened beans, mochi rice, and delicate fruits. While traditional sweets such as daifuku, dorayaki, or yokan are still beloved, Japan also embraces modern desserts that fuse its ancient flavors with contemporary ideas.

This recipe brings together matcha, chia seeds, and a hint of mochi texture to create a modern, nutrient-rich parfait that’s not only visually stunning but also kind to your body.

Table of Contents

What Makes This Matcha Chia Mochi Parfait So Irresistible

This dessert is a harmonious blend of tradition and health, balancing the earthy richness of matcha with the light crunch of chia and the chewy satisfaction of mochi. It’s naturally sweetened, gluten-free, and packed with antioxidants, fiber, and plant-based goodness.

Recipe: Matcha Chia Mochi Parfait

Whether you’re new to Japanese flavors or already a matcha enthusiast, this Matcha Chia Mochi Parfait is a beautiful way to indulge thoughtfully. It’s a delicious reminder that dessert can be both special and mindful.

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 2 hours chilling for chia pudding)

Cooking Time: 7 minutes (for stovetop mochi)

Calories: ~280 per serving (varies with toppings and sweetener)

Recipe Cuisine: Japanese-inspired (Modern Wagashi Fusion)

Recipe Keywords: Japanese dessert, healthy matcha recipe, chia parfait, wagashi fusion, mochi dessert, Buddha bowl dessert, gluten-free Japanese dessert, vegan-friendly sweets

Ingredients

Matcha Chia Pudding:

1½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of choice)
3 tbsp chia seeds
1½ tsp high-quality matcha powder
1 tbsp maple syrup (or honey)
½ tsp vanilla extract

Mochi Bites (Optional but fun):

½ cup glutinous rice flour
⅓ cup water
1 tbsp sugar
Cornstarch for dusting

Toppings:

Fresh strawberries or sliced kiwi
Red bean paste (anko), 2 tbsp (optional)
Toasted black sesame seeds
Coconut flakes or crushed roasted nuts

Instructions

Make the Matcha Chia Pudding:

In a mixing bowl, whisk matcha powder with a bit of warm water until smooth (no lumps).
Add almond milk, chia seeds, maple syrup, and vanilla. Stir well.
Let it sit 5 minutes, stir again, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) until thick and pudding-like.

Prepare Mochi Bites (Optional, Two Methods):

You can make chewy mochi bites using either a stovetop or microwave method, depending on your preference.

1. Stovetop Method (No Microwave):

In a small saucepan, mix ½ cup glutinous rice flour, ⅓ cup water, and 1 tbsp sugar until smooth.
Heat gently over medium-low, stirring constantly until the dough becomes thick, glossy, and slightly translucent—about 5–7 minutes.
Let it cool slightly, then transfer to a cornstarch-dusted surface. Flatten and cut into small cubes.

2. Microwave Method (Quick Option):

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the same ingredients.
Microwave in 30-second intervals (stirring in between) for about 1½–2 minutes, until thick and sticky.
Let it cool, then shape and cut as above.

Assemble the Parfait:

In clear glasses, layer the matcha chia pudding, mochi bites, and fresh fruit.
Add a spoonful of red bean paste if using, and finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and coconut flakes or crushed nuts.

Enjoy your meal! いただきます！

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