Hawaiian Malasadas Recipe

Cook Time: 2 hours 45 minutes  

   Prep Time: 35 minutes

Hawaiian Malasadas Ingredients

Hawaiian Malasadas Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine the warmed whole milk and heavy cream. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the mixture and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and freshly grated nutmeg until well combined.
  3. Pour the yeast mixture into the egg mixture and stir to combine.
  4. Add the flour and sea salt to the wet ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a sticky dough forms.
  5. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for 5 minutes.
  6. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  7. Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into 16 equal pieces and shape each piece into a smooth ball.
  8. Place the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each. Cover loosely with a towel and let rise for 30 to 45 minutes, until puffy.
  9. While the dough is rising, mix the superfine sugar and ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl for coating.
  10. Pour vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed pot to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil to 350°F, using a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
  11. Carefully lower a few dough balls at a time into the hot oil, frying for about 2 minutes per side, until golden brown and puffed. Do not overcrowd the pot.
  12. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried malasadas to a paper towel-lined tray to drain excess oil.
  13. While still warm, roll each malasada in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.

Estimated Calories: 220, Servings: 12

Recommended Dishes

Malasadas Story

Sharing malasadas with my grandmother was like opening a well-worn family photo album, each bite revealing a new memory tucked between the pages. She always said the best moments in life are like a good recipe, passed down and improved with each generation. Our afternoons together were deliciously simple, filled with laughter that rose and fell as quickly as the dough in her kitchen. The process was easy, but the connection we built was as rich and satisfying as the treat itself.
When I first met my partner, our conversation was like a fast-moving river, sometimes stumbling over rocks but always finding its way. Offering malasadas was my way of building a bridge, a quick gesture that turned awkward silences into great exchanges. The act of sharing something so universally loved made the atmosphere healthy and light, as if we were both learning a new dance with steps that felt familiar and exciting at the same time.
On a rainy afternoon, I found myself sitting next to a stranger at a bus stop, both of us seeking shelter from the storm. Breaking out a box of malasadas was like lighting a small campfire, drawing us together in the warmth of shared experience. The conversation that followed was as easy and natural as breathing, proof that sometimes the most delicious connections are sparked by the simplest, most unexpected moments.

Malasadas Tips

Making authentic Malasadas is like tuning a ukulele—each string (or step) must be just right for the best harmony. For the perfect homemade treat, think of your dough as the melody: it needs to be soft, pillowy, and elastic. Kneading is your rhythm section; don’t rush it, as this is how you achieve that signature airy texture. The best Malasadas recipe is all about patience, much like waiting for the tide to come in—let your dough rise until doubled for a truly fluffy result.
Frying these Hawaiian delights is like surfing: timing and temperature are everything. Too hot, and your Malasadas will brown too quickly, leaving the inside doughy; too cool, and they’ll soak up oil, losing that light, delicious bite. Use a thermometer for easy, quick, and consistent results. Rolling the finished pastries in sugar is like adding the final brushstroke to a painting—do it while they’re warm for the tastiest, most authentic finish.
For a simple twist, imagine your Malasadas as a blank canvas. Fill them with custard, chocolate, or fruit jams for a homemade surprise that’s as delightful as finding a hidden waterfall. The best tips for how to make these treats shine: use fresh ingredients, don’t overcrowd your oil, and let your dough rest. With these easy steps, your Malasadas will be the star of any gathering, as irresistible as a Hawaiian sunset.

Malasadas History

Malasadas are to Hawaiian culture what a well-loved family photo album is to a household, capturing memories and stories from generations past. Their cultural origins trace back to Portuguese immigrants who brought the recipe to Hawaii, much like travelers carrying seeds to plant in new soil. Over time, malasadas became a symbol of celebration and togetherness, especially during festivals like Malasada Day, which is as anticipated as a good holiday feast. The best traditions are those that blend seamlessly into the fabric of daily life, and malasadas have done just that, becoming a delicious and easy treat that everyone looks forward to sharing.
The evolution of the malasada recipe is reminiscent of a classic song being remixed by each new generation, keeping the melody but adding fresh beats. Originally, the recipe was simple and fast, designed for practicality and taste. As malasadas settled into Hawaiian kitchens, bakers began experimenting, making the treat even more delicious and sometimes healthier by using different fillings or cooking methods. This evolution shows how a good recipe can adapt to changing times, much like a favorite story that gets retold with new details to keep it relevant and exciting.
Regional adaptations of malasadas in Hawaii are like artists painting the same landscape with their own unique colors. Each island, and even each bakery, puts its own spin on the treat, whether by adding local flavors or tweaking the texture for a quick snack or a more indulgent dessert. These adaptations have made malasadas a great example of how food can be both a unifying force and a canvas for creativity. The best part is that these regional twists have inspired other cuisines to try their hand at similar recipes, proving that a good idea, like a catchy tune, travels fast and finds a home wherever it goes.

About Malasadas Recipe

If you’ve never tried making a homemade Malasadas recipe, you’re missing out on one of the best treats ever! I promise, this is the perfect way to bring a taste of the islands right into your kitchen. The best part? This easy and quick recipe uses simple ingredients you probably already have. I always say, if I can make these delicious, authentic Malasadas without burning down my kitchen, anyone can. My family now expects a fresh batch every weekend, and honestly, I don’t blame them—these are just that tasty.
Let’s talk about how to make these fluffy, golden pillows of joy. The secret to the best Malasadas is letting the dough rise until it’s super light and airy. Don’t rush it! I learned the hard way that patience is key (and that dough stuck to the ceiling is not a good look). With a few tips and tricks, like using warm milk and making sure your oil is the right temperature, you’ll have a batch of perfect, authentic Malasadas in no time. Trust me, this recipe is so easy, you’ll wonder why you ever bought them from a bakery.
If you’re looking for a quick, delicious treat that will impress everyone, this is the recipe for you. The ingredients are simple, the steps are straightforward, and the results are always tasty. I love experimenting with fillings—sometimes I go classic with sugar, other times I get wild with chocolate or custard. No matter how you make them, these homemade Malasadas are always a hit. So grab your apron, follow my tips, and get ready to enjoy the best, most authentic Malasadas you’ve ever tasted!

Malasadas Pairings

Biting into a malasada is like stepping into a carnival of flavors, where each taste is a ride that spins you around with joy. The best malasadas are dusted with sugar, creating a sweet, slightly crunchy exterior that gives way to a pillowy, airy inside. This combination is as satisfying as finding a good book on a rainy day—comforting, familiar, and always a treat. The recipe for a great malasada experience is simple: pair it with something that balances its sweetness, like a tart fruit compote or a drizzle of citrus glaze, for a quick and easy way to elevate the flavor profile.
When it comes to drinks, malasadas are like the star of a morning show, and a good cup of coffee is the co-host that keeps the energy flowing. A strong, dark roast or a creamy latte is a delicious companion, much like a reliable friend who always knows how to make you smile. For a healthy and refreshing twist, a glass of fresh pineapple juice or a tropical smoothie can be a fast and easy way to cut through the richness, making the whole experience feel like a sunny Hawaiian morning.
Choosing sides for malasadas is like picking the right accessories for a favorite outfit—each choice can change the mood of the meal. A bowl of fresh fruit salad is a great, healthy option that adds color and brightness, much like a splash of paint on a blank canvas. For a more indulgent pairing, a scoop of coconut or macadamia nut ice cream turns the treat into a quick and easy dessert, perfect for sharing with friends or family. The best sides are those that complement the malasada’s warmth and sweetness, creating a delicious and memorable spread.