Homemade Strawberry Daifuku (Step-by-Step Guide)

Using store-bought red bean paste and a microwave-made dough, these Daifuku stay soft and chewy for hours! They are the perfect delightful dessert for any spring gathering🍓☘️

Prep time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

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INGREDIENTS (Serves 6)
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1/2 cup glutinous rice flour (shiratamako, 100g)
1 1/2 tbsp. sugar (20g)
3/4 cup smooth red bean paste (koshian, 180g)
6 strawberries
1/2 cup water (140ml)
cornstarch, for dusting (as needed)

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INSTRUCTIONS
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1. Divide the red bean paste into 6 equal portions (30g each) and roll them into balls. Flatten each into a 3-inch (approx. 7–8cm) circle, place a strawberry in the center, and wrap the paste around it. It’s okay if the tip of the strawberry is visible.
2. In a microwaveable bowl, combine the glutinous rice flour and sugar. Gradually add water, whisking until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
3. Cover with plastic wrap and microwave at 500W for 2 minutes. Remove and stir vigorously with a spatula as if kneading the dough.
4. Cover again and microwave for another 2 minutes at 500W. Stir well with a spatula until the dough becomes glossy and translucent.
5. Cover one last time and microwave for 1 more minute. The dough is now ready.
6. Generously dust a tray with cornstarch and place the hot dough on it. Divide into 6 equal pieces using a dough scraper (bench scraper).
7. Once the dough has cooled slightly but is still warm, stretch a piece of dough over one of the bean paste-covered strawberries from Step 1. Coating your hands with cornstarch to prevent sticking, stretch the dough downward and pinch it closed at the bottom.

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Points:
Make sure to stir the dough with strength until it becomes glossy.
The dough is very sticky during assembly, so work quickly while keeping your hands and the surface well-coated with cornstarch.