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Easy Hawaiian Style Malasadas Recipe: The Only Recipe You’ll Ever Need
If you’re craving the soft, pillowy delight of an Easy Hawaiian Malasadas Recipe, imagine sinking your teeth into warm, sugar-coated Hawaiian donuts that transport you straight to the sunny beaches of Hawaii. This foolproof version simplifies the traditional Portuguese-Hawaiian fusion treat, making it accessible for home cooks of all levels without sacrificing that signature fluffy texture. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick weekend breakfast or a dessert enthusiast seeking the perfect fried malasadas recipe, this guide will have you frying up golden perfection in no time—just like the ones from local Hawaiian bakeries.
The aroma of freshly fried malasadas fills the air, with a crispy golden exterior giving way to a soft, airy interior that’s impossibly light and tender. Each bite bursts with subtle sweetness from the granulated sugar coating, balanced by the rich, buttery undertones that make Hawaiian Malasadas Recipe a standout. Picture the warm, yeasty scent mingling with hints of tropical vibes, creating a treat that’s not just food but an experience—crispy on the outside, melt-in-your-mouth inside, and utterly irresistible for any occasion.
What sets this Easy Hawaiian Malasadas Recipe apart on delicetreats.com is our commitment to making it the most reliable and user-friendly version you’ll find online, drawn from Chef Lalybeth’s expertise in Hawaiian-Portuguese cuisine. You’ll discover the Chef’s Secret for achieving a perfect rise every time, along with detailed tips to avoid common pitfalls, ensuring your malasadas turn out fluffy and delicious. From ingredient spotlights to storage hacks, this post equips you with everything needed to master Hawaiian donuts recipe confidently in your own kitchen.
Why This Easy Hawaiian Style Malasadas Recipe is a Game-Changer
The Chef’s Secret lies in the precise yeast activation technique, using warm milk at exactly 110°F to ensure a foolproof rise that results in ultra-fluffy malasadas every single time. This method, honed by Chef Lalybeth, creates an ideal environment for the yeast to bloom fully, incorporating air bubbles that lead to that signature light-as-a-cloud texture—elevating this Easy Hawaiian Malasadas Recipe far above basic versions. By letting the dough rest in a greased bowl, we lock in moisture and flavor, making these donuts exceptionally soft and preventing any dense outcomes that plague amateur attempts.
Unbeatable Texture: The science behind the texture comes from the combination of melted butter and eggs, which emulsify to form a rich dough that fries up with a perfect golden crust. The high hydration from the warm milk creates steam during frying, resulting in an airy interior—think of it as the dough’s secret weapon for that Hawaiian-style puffiness, ensuring your Fried Malasadas Recipe isn’t greasy but instead delightfully crisp on the outside.
Foolproof for a Reason: This recipe has been tested multiple times in real kitchen settings to guarantee success, even for beginners. With clear instructions and built-in pro tips, it’s designed to minimize errors, making it the most trustworthy Hawaiian Malasadas Recipe available. Skip the guesswork and enjoy consistent results that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredient Spotlight: Quality Makes the Difference
Warm milk (about 110°F) serves as the base for activating the yeast, providing the necessary warmth to kickstart fermentation and create that light, airy dough. Opt for whole milk for its higher fat content, which adds richness and helps achieve the soft texture in this Easy Hawaiian Malasadas Recipe. If you’re lactose-intolerant, a good substitution is unsweetened almond milk heated to the same temperature, though it may slightly alter the richness—ensure it’s warm to maintain yeast activity.
Granulated sugar not only sweetens the dough but also feeds the yeast, promoting a faster and more reliable rise for your Hawaiian Malasadas Recipe. Choose pure cane sugar for the best flavor profile, avoiding generic brands that might contain additives. For a lower-calorie option, you could substitute with coconut sugar, which adds a subtle tropical note fitting for this Hawaiian donuts recipe, but be mindful that it might darken the dough slightly during frying.
Active dry yeast is the heart of this recipe, responsible for the dough’s impressive expansion and fluffy outcome in your Fried Malasadas Recipe. Always use fresh packets to ensure potency—stale yeast can lead to flat results. If you’re out of active dry yeast, instant yeast works as a direct substitute, requiring no proofing, which saves time while keeping the Hawaiian Malasadas Recipe straightforward.
All-purpose flour provides the structure and gluten development needed for a tender yet sturdy dough in this Easy Hawaiian Malasadas Recipe. Go for unbleached flour to avoid any chemical aftertaste, and for a healthier twist, substitute with half whole wheat flour, though this will make the texture denser—sift it well to maintain lightness in your Hawaiian donuts.
Unsalted butter, melted, adds moisture and a luxurious flavor that enhances the overall taste of your Fried Malasadas Recipe. Using high-quality, European-style butter with higher fat content ensures a flakier result; if substituting, opt for ghee for a dairy-free alternative, but reduce the salt slightly to balance flavors in this Hawaiian Malasadas Recipe.
Large eggs contribute binding and richness, helping to create the dough’s elastic quality for perfect frying. Fresh, room-temperature eggs work best; for a vegan version, replace with flaxseed eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg), which will make your Easy Hawaiian Malasadas Recipe egg-free while keeping it cohesive.
Salt enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness in this Hawaiian donuts recipe, preventing the dough from tasting flat. Use fine sea salt for even distribution; if you’re on a low-sodium diet, a pinch less won’t hurt, but don’t omit it entirely as it affects yeast activity in your Fried Malasadas Recipe.
Oil for frying is crucial for achieving that golden, non-greasy exterior in your Easy Hawaiian Malasadas Recipe. Neutral oils like vegetable or canola are ideal due to their high smoke point; for a healthier option, avocado oil can substitute, offering monounsaturated fats without compromising the crispiness of your Hawaiian Malasadas Recipe.
Additional granulated sugar for coating provides the final sweet crunch that defines this Fried Malasadas Recipe. Again, pure cane sugar is best for its fine texture; if you prefer a variation, cinnamon sugar adds a warm spice, making it a creative twist on the traditional Hawaiian donuts recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Activating the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of warm milk (ensuring it’s about 110°F), 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) of active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it stand for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready.
Pro Tip: Always check the yeast’s expiration date and use a thermometer for the milk temperature—too hot can kill the yeast, leading to dense malasadas.
Step 2: Mixing the Dough
Once the yeast is foamy, add 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of salt to the bowl. Mix everything together with a wooden spoon or your hands until a sticky dough forms, taking care to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Overmixing at this stage can develop too much gluten, making the dough tough; stop as soon as it’s combined to keep your Easy Hawaiian Malasadas Recipe light and fluffy.
Step 3: Kneading the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If it sticks, add a light dusting of flour, but avoid adding too much to maintain the dough’s moisture.
Pro Tip: Use the heel of your hand to knead in a folding motion—this builds the perfect structure for that airy texture in your Hawaiian Malasadas Recipe.
Step 4: Letting the Dough Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size. This resting period is key for flavor development.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Placing the bowl in a drafty area can slow the rise, so choose a warm, draft-free spot like near a turned-off oven to ensure even proofing for your Fried Malasadas Recipe.
Step 5: Heating the Oil
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F, ensuring there’s enough oil for the dough balls to float freely without overcrowding.
Pro Tip: Use a candy thermometer to monitor the oil temperature accurately—fluctuations can lead to greasy or undercooked malasadas in this Easy Hawaiian Malasadas Recipe.
Step 6: Shaping and Frying
Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12-15 pieces. Roll each piece into smooth balls and fry in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to flip them carefully.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Frying too many at once can drop the oil temperature, resulting in oily donuts; fry in small batches to keep your Hawaiian Donuts Recipe perfectly crisp.
Step 7: Coating and Serving
Remove the fried malasadas with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. While still warm, roll them in additional granulated sugar for that signature sweet coating.
Pro Tip: Coat immediately after draining to ensure the sugar sticks well, enhancing the flavor in your Hawaiian Malasadas Recipe.
Serving & Presentation
Elevate your Easy Hawaiian Malasadas Recipe by presenting them on a tropical-themed platter, perhaps with fresh pineapple slices or a sprinkle of shredded coconut for a Hawaiian twist that complements the donuts’ sweetness. For an impressive garnish, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and pineapple juice, adding a burst of island flavor. These fried malasadas pair beautifully with a side of fresh fruit salad or a cup of strong Hawaiian coffee, making them ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert alongside lighter mains like grilled fish to balance the richness.
Make-Ahead & Storage Solutions
For a Make-Ahead Strategy, prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance by mixing and kneading as directed, then refrigerating it in an airtight container after the first rise. When ready, let it come to room temperature and proceed with shaping and frying for fresh results in your Easy Hawaiian Malasadas Recipe.
Storing Leftovers: Keep cooled malasadas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days to maintain freshness—avoid plastic bags as they can make them soggy.
The Best Way to Reheat: Warm them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness without making them tough, ensuring your Fried Malasadas Recipe tastes just-made.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take to fry Hawaiian style malasadas?
In this Easy Hawaiian Malasadas Recipe, frying takes about 2-3 minutes per side, totaling 4-6 minutes per batch at 350°F. This ensures they turn golden brown without overcooking, preserving that fluffy interior characteristic of Hawaiian donuts.
What are good ingredient substitutions for an easy malasadas recipe?
For this Hawaiian Malasadas Recipe, good substitutions include using almond milk for warm milk if dairy-free, coconut sugar for granulated sugar to add a tropical flair, or instant yeast for active dry yeast to skip the proofing step. Always test these in small batches to maintain the soft texture of your Fried Malasadas Recipe.
Can I bake malasadas instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake malasadas for a healthier twist on this Easy Hawaiian Malasadas Recipe, but the texture will differ— they’ll be less crispy and more like bread rolls. Preheat your oven to 375°F, place shaped balls on a greased baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden, brushing with melted butter for added flavor.
What are some popular ways to serve Hawaiian malasadas?
Popular ways to serve Hawaiian Malasadas Recipe include dusting with powdered sugar, filling with custard or tropical fruit preserves for a decadent treat, or pairing with coffee for breakfast. In Hawaii, they’re often enjoyed fresh at festivals, but you can also serve them as dessert with ice cream to enhance the Hawaiian donuts experience.
Are malasadas gluten-free?
Traditional malasadas aren’t gluten-free due to the all-purpose flour, but you can adapt this Fried Malasadas Recipe by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This may slightly alter the texture, so add a bit more xanthan gum if needed for better rise.
How can I make this recipe for a large group?
To scale up this Easy Hawaiian Malasadas Recipe for a crowd, simply double the ingredients and ensure you have enough oil for frying. Plan for extra rising time if making larger batches, and fry in shifts to keep the oil at the right temperature.
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Easy Hawaiian Style Malasadas Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Delicious Portuguese-Hawaiian donuts, soft and sweet, perfect for breakfast or dessert. These malasadas are fried to golden perfection and coated in sugar.
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- oil for frying
- additional granulated sugar for coating
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour, melted butter, eggs, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or pot to 350°F.
- Punch down dough and divide into 12-15 pieces. Roll into balls.
- Fry in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Drain on paper towels.
- Roll in granulated sugar while warm.
Notes
These are best enjoyed fresh. Store in an airtight container, but reheat in the oven for crispiness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Method: Dessert
- Cuisine: Hawaiian-Portuguese
Nutrition
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 3g








