Malasadas (Hawaiian Donuts) Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings a little taste of Hawaii into your kitchen, this Malasadas (Hawaiian Donuts) Recipe is just what you need! These light and fluffy donuts are rolled in sugar and filled with luscious passion fruit pastry cream, making them a perfect snack or dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply want to brighten up a busy weeknight, these malasadas will surely bring smiles to your family and friends.

What makes this recipe truly special is its authenticity, inspired by the famous Leonard’s Bakery in Honolulu. Each bite is soft and sweet, providing a little escape to paradise. Plus, it’s easy to whip up a small batch of six donuts, so you won’t be overwhelmed with leftovers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 10 minutes of prep time, these malasadas come together in no time!
• Family-Friendly Fun: Get the kids involved in rolling the donuts in sugar – it’s a memory-making activity.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of warm pastries and tangy passion fruit cream is simply irresistible.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to experiment with different fillings if passion fruit isn’t your favorite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this malasadas recipe is a breeze! They are all simple and wholesome items that you might already have at home. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Malasadas Dough

• 2 cups (9 ounces or 255 grams) bread flour, plus more for assembly
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 (0.25-ounce) packet instant yeast
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¾ cup (6 ounces or 170 grams) whole milk, warmed to between 120° to 130°F
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
• 2 Tablespoons (1 ounce or 28 grams) unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
• 6 Tablespoons (2.65 ounces or 75 grams) granulated sugar, divided into ¼ cup (1.75 ounces or 50 grams) and 2 Tablespoons (0.90 ounce or 25 grams)*

For the Passion Fruit Pastry Cream

• 1 cup (8 ounces or 227 grams) whole milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 Tablespoons (1 ounce or 28 grams) cornstarch
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 Tablespoon (0.5 ounces or 14 grams) unsalted butter
• ¼ cup (2 ounces or 57 grams) passion fruit puree
• ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For Frying

• Vegetable oil, for frying
• ¾ cup (5.25 ounces or 149 grams) granulated sugar

Variations

This malasadas recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to let your creativity shine with these tasty variations:

• Change Up the Filling: Instead of passion fruit, try using chocolate ganache, custard, or even fresh fruit jam!
• Experiment with Toppings: Roll the donuts in cinnamon sugar for an extra twist on flavor.
• Make Mini Malasadas: Shape smaller donuts for bite-sized treats perfect for parties.

How to Make Malasadas (Hawaiian Donuts) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and kosher salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps activate the yeast properly. Then, add warmed milk along with the egg and egg yolk. The warmth from the milk helps wake up the yeast, leading to fluffy donuts.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Once combined, knead the dough on a floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic. This process develops gluten which gives our malasadas that perfect airy texture!

Step 3: First Rise

Place your kneaded dough in an oiled bowl and cover it with a clean cloth. Allow it to rise in a warm area until doubled in size—this usually takes about an hour but can vary based on your environment.

Step 4: Make the Passion Fruit Pastry Cream

While waiting for the dough to rise, prepare your filling! In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together whole milk, egg, cornstarch, and salt until it thickens into a creamy consistency. Stir in butter and passion fruit puree for that tropical flavor before letting it cool.

Step 5: Shape Your Malasadas

Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out gently. Cut out circles using a cookie cutter or glass—the size is up to you! Let them rise again while you heat oil for frying.

Step 6: Fry Until Golden Brown

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot over medium heat. Carefully fry each donut until golden brown on both sides—this step fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas! Once fried, place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 7: Add Sugar Coating

While still warm, roll each malasada in granulated sugar for that delightful touch of sweetness before filling them with your passion fruit pastry cream.

Enjoy every warm bite of these homemade malasadas—they’re sure to become a beloved favorite in your household!

Pro Tips for Making Malasadas (Hawaiian Donuts) Recipe

Making malasadas is a delightful adventure, and with a few expert tips, you can achieve that perfect light and fluffy texture!

• Use bread flour: This type of flour has a higher protein content, which helps create the chewy texture characteristic of malasadas. It ensures your donuts will rise beautifully and have that delightful bite.

• Temperature matters: Ensure your milk is warmed to between 120° to 130°F before mixing it with yeast. This temperature range activates the yeast effectively, leading to a better rise in your dough.

• Don’t rush the rising time: Allow the dough to rise until it has doubled in size. Patience is key here; this step ensures your malasadas are airy and fluffy!

• Monitor oil temperature: When frying, maintain an oil temperature between 350°F to 375°F. If the oil is too hot, the outside will cook too quickly while the inside remains raw, and if it’s too cool, your malasadas will absorb excess oil.

• Roll in sugar right after frying: For maximum adherence, roll your freshly fried malasadas in sugar while they’re still warm. This not only enhances flavor but also gives them that beautiful sugary crust!

How to Serve Malasadas (Hawaiian Donuts) Recipe

Serving malasadas is as fun as making them! These delightful donuts can be presented in various ways that add charm to any occasion.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting adds an elegant touch and extra sweetness.
• Fresh fruit slices: Serve with slices of tropical fruits like mango or pineapple for a refreshing contrast to the rich creaminess.

Side Dishes

• Fresh tropical fruit salad: A mix of juicy fruits like papaya, kiwi, and pineapple complements the sweetness of malasadas and adds a refreshing note.

• Coconut whipped cream: Light and airy coconut whipped cream pairs beautifully with the donuts, enhancing their tropical essence.

• Coffee or tea: A warm beverage such as coffee or herbal tea balances out the sweetness of the malasadas and provides a comforting experience.

• Vanilla ice cream: For those indulgent moments, serve hot malasadas with a scoop of vanilla ice cream; the melting ice cream creates a fantastic creamy contrast.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set for an unforgettable malasada experience! Enjoy every sweet bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This malasadas recipe is perfect for meal prep since you can store or freeze them to enjoy later! Here’s how to keep your delicious Hawaiian donuts fresh and ready for whenever you crave a sweet treat.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the malasadas to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Consume within 1-2 days for the best texture and flavor.

Freezing

• To freeze, place cooled malasadas in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen malasadas in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 15-20 seconds, but this may affect their texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making malasadas!

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour in the Malasadas (Hawaiian Donuts) Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour for bread flour. However, using bread flour will give your malasadas a chewier texture due to its higher protein content.

How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying my malasadas?

To check if your oil is hot enough, use a thermometer; it should be around 350°F (175°C). Alternatively, drop a small piece of dough into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface quickly, the oil is ready!

What other fillings can I use besides passion fruit?

Feel free to get creative! You can fill your malasadas with custard, chocolate cream, or even fruity jams like guava or mango.

How can I achieve that classic sugar coating on my Malasadas (Hawaiian Donuts)?

After frying, immediately roll your warm malasadas in granulated sugar. This will create that delightful sweet crust we all love!

Final Thoughts

I sincerely hope this recipe brings joy and sweetness into your kitchen! Making malasadas is not only fun but also a wonderful way to share love with family and friends. Whether enjoyed fresh or saved for later, these fluffy delights are sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!