Malasadas Recipe

This Malasadas Recipe is a Portuguese dessert that’s become a Hawaiian favorite. The fried dough rolled in sugar makes them irresistible!

Today, we’re going to dive into the world of Portuguese dessert, a little fluffy, sweet treat known as Malasadas. Think of them as a type of Portuguese donut that is a bit different and definitely delightful.

With their Portuguese origins, they have traveled across oceans to Hawaii with Portuguese immigrants, where they’ve become a favorite dessert.

These days, they are a staple on food trucks and even at events like Malasada Day. They are fried, soft, fluffy, and oh-so-delicious!

Buuuuttttt – creating your own Malasadas is a yummy and rewarding experience. They’re a soft, sweet treat that brings a piece of Hawaii’s rich culinary culture and Portuguese heritage right into your kitchen.

The golden brown, sugar-dusted outside and soft, airy interior make for a wonderful combination in every bite.

So why not turn a regular day into a special occasion with this easy Malasada recipe? Best wishes and full bellies to you and yours!

Common Questions About Malasadas Recipe

What are Malasadas?

Malasadas are Portuguese donuts without holes. They’re made from an eggy dough, fried until golden brown, and then generously coated with sugar.

They have a slightly crispy exterior and a fluffy, tender inside. They’re deliciously sweet and a great addition to any festive meal or simply as a special treat.

What does Malasada mean?

The word ‘malasada’ comes from the Portuguese words ‘mal-assada,’ which means undercooked.’ But don’t worry; these doughnuts are definitely well-cooked and golden brown, with a slightly crispy exterior and a soft, airy interior.

Can Malasadas be filled?

Absolutely! Though the original recipe didn’t include fillings, you can fill your Malasadas with custard filling, pastry cream, or even coconut pudding for a Hawaiian twist.

You can use a piping bag to inject the filling after the Malasadas are fried and cooled slightly.

Storage

These malasadas are now in my top 10 list of favorite things to eat! You will absolutely love their soft and crispy texture.

Refrigerator

After they’ve cooled, place any leftover Malasadas in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll last for about 2 to 3 days. Just warm them slightly before serving.

Freezer

For longer storage, you can freeze your Malasadas. First, let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-friendly bag or container. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Defrost in the refrigerator and then warm in the oven before serving.

Tips

Make sure you have at least a couple of inches of oil in your skillet so that the malasada dough can float. This helps them puff up more rather than flatten the dough on a solid surface.

• Ensure the temperature of the oil is consistent for even cooking. Too high, and the outside may burn before the inside of the doughnuts cook properly.
• Let your dough rise in a warm place, away from any drafts. This helps the yeast work effectively and will give you a fluffy dough.
• Be patient when frying. Don’t overcrowd your Dutch oven or large pot. Give your Malasadas room to float and flip for an even golden brown color.
• After frying, drain your Malasadas on paper towels to remove excess oil, then roll them in sugar while they are still warm for the sugar to stick better.

Ingredients

For whatever occasion you’ve got planned, this little Hawaiian doughnut will be the talk of the crowd!

• Active dry yeast
• Granulated sugar
• Warm water
• Eggs, at room temperature
• All-purpose flour
• Salt
• Melted butter
• Evaporated milk
• Vegetable or canola oil, for frying
• Sugar, for rolling

How to Make Malasadas Recipe

This recipe produces a very light batter that is not rolled and cut but spooned into the hot oil. You’ll love how they turn a crispy golden brown!

1. In a small bowl, stir together the warm water and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Then, stir the yeast into the sugar water. Set aside to proof.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until completely blended and smooth.
3. Place the flour into a very large bowl. Whisk the ½ cup of sugar and the salt into the flour. Create a well in the middle of the flour. 
4. In the well, pour the eggs, melted butter, evaporated milk, water, and yeast mixture. Beat until well blended. 
5. Cover the bowl and set it in a warm, draft-free location until it has doubled in size. The time will depend on the freshness of the yeast, but expect the rise to take at least 1 hour.
6. The batter is ready when the dough has doubled but is loose and filled with air pockets.
7. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, add the oil and heat until 350 degrees.
8. Using a small scoop (about 2 tablespoons), carefully spoon portions of the batter into the hot oil, cooking in batches.
9. Fry the doughnuts for approximately 4 to 5 minutes on each side or until golden on both sides. The malasadas should be 185 degrees on the inside when checked with an internal thermometer.
10. Remove the malasadas and place them on a paper towel to cool slightly. Then, roll the warm malasadas in sugar and serve while warm.

Kitchen Supplies You’ll Need for Malasadas Recipe

If this is your first time making these, don’t sweat it. Deep frying these dough balls is a piece of cake! Or maybe a piece of doughnut…

• Large bowl
• Medium bowl
• Small bowl
• Small scoop
• Skillet
• Thermometer
• Paper towels

What to Serve With Malasadas Recipe

Enjoy these fluffy Malasadas on their own, or serve them as a delightful dessert with your favorite ice cream. They also go great with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate, adding a sweet ending to any meal.

Why You Should Make Malasadas Recipe

If you’ve had these Hawaiian malasadas before, you know exactly why you should make them again! 

• They’re a delightful sweet treat that everyone will love.
• They are perfect for special occasions or simply a fun baking project with the family.
• The recipe is relatively easy, with basic ingredients and steps.
• You can customize them with your favorite fillings.

Variations and Add-Ins for Malasadas Recipe

My favorite thing to do with these is trying out different fillings. Personally, I enjoy strawberry and blueberry jelly. Be sure to try out your own favorites!

• Add a filling of your choice: custard, coconut pudding, or pastry cream.
• Try dusting with cinnamon sugar instead of plain sugar for an extra flavor kick.
• You could also flavor your sugar with some vanilla or other extracts for a different twist.
• Try carefully coating the dough balls in shredded coconut before frying. You’ll get a burst of coconut and extra crunch with each bite!

If you love this easy malasadas recipe, you’re going to love these other treats too. Please click each link below to find the easy, printable recipe!

More Great Fried Dough Recipes

Air Fryer Doughnut Holes with Chocolate Sauce

Struffoli

Homemade Apple Fritters Recipe

Homemade Churros

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