Mochi is a bite-size Japanese treat made of sweet glutinous rice flour wrapped around a sugary filling. It’s perfect for a hot day, and thanks to TikTok, it’s easier than ever to make it at home.

Growing up in Columbus, but born in Hatsukaichi, Japan, mochi wasn’t just a treat-it was a slice of my heritage that I carried with me like the curls in my hair and the ink on my skin. My fondness for ...