Making mochi at home traditionally required a wooden mallet (kine) and mortar (usu) to pound soaked, steamed glutinous rice into the smooth, elastic rice cake we know and love. Modern mochi makers handle the entire process automatically — soaking, steaming, and kneading — producing beautifully smooth mochi with minimal effort. Here are the best options available in 2026.
Zojirushi BB-SSC10WZ Mochi & Rice Cake Maker
Zojirushi is the gold standard for Japanese kitchen appliances, and their dedicated mochi maker lives up to that reputation completely. The BB-SSC10WZ handles the full process: pre-soak mode, automatic steam cooking, and the kneading cycle that produces the perfectly smooth, elastic mochi texture. It accommodates up to 4 cups of sweet rice per batch. The kneading blades are robust and the machine is quiet compared to competitors. At $180-220, it's a significant investment — but it produces mochi that's indistinguishable from what you'd buy at a Japanese confectionery. Best for serious enthusiasts.
Panasonic SD-EM10 Mochi Maker
The Panasonic SD-EM10 is Zojirushi's closest competitor and actually offers one feature the Zojirushi lacks: a bread-making function. If you want a dual-purpose machine that makes both mochi and bread, the Panasonic is your pick. The mochi quality is excellent — slightly firmer than Zojirushi's output by default, but this is adjustable through batch size and timing. Price: $160-200.
HAKUBAKU Mochi Maker Machine
A mid-range option that performs above its $100-130 price point. The HAKUBAKU includes multiple mochi-making presets including settings for kusa mochi (mugwort mochi) and colored mochi for festivals. The batch size is smaller (2 cups), making it ideal for households making mochi for one to two people rather than a full family. Build quality is slightly below the Japanese brands but adequate for regular home use.
CucinaPro Mochi & Rice Cake Maker
The CucinaPro is the most accessible entry point for new mochi makers at $75-95. The process is simplified: soak your rice separately, then add to the machine for the steam and pound cycle. Results are quite good for the price — smooth, elastic mochi that works well for daifuku (mochi stuffed with anko or ice cream). The smaller capacity (1.5 cups) limits batch size, but for beginners exploring mochi making, this is the perfect starter machine.
Toshiba RC-10NMFWAC Rice Cooker with Mochi Setting
Not a dedicated mochi maker, but Toshiba's premium rice cooker includes a specialized mochi-making program that produces respectable results. If you already need a high-quality rice cooker and want occasional mochi capability without buying a second appliance, the Toshiba delivers on both fronts. The mochi won't quite match a dedicated machine but is very good. Price: $130-160.
What to Look for in a Mochi Maker
- Capacity: 2+ cups is ideal for a household of 2-4; 4-cup models work for larger batches
- Full cycle vs. knead-only: Full cycle machines handle soaking and steaming; knead-only machines require pre-cooked rice
- Blade material: Stainless steel kneading blades last longer and are easier to sanitize
- Programs: Look for multiple settings for different mochi varieties (regular, colored, flavored)
- Brand reliability: Zojirushi and Panasonic have the deepest track records for longevity
Zojirushi BB-SSC10WZ — Best Quality Mochi
If you're serious about mochi making, the Zojirushi is the machine to get. The output quality is unmatched in home appliances, the build will last decades, and Zojirushi's customer support is excellent. For budget-conscious beginners, start with the CucinaPro.