In the heart of the tropics, there’s a sweet treasure that’s a feast for the senses—malasadas. As I crafted these airy Hawaiian donuts, the golden-brown crust and the tantalizing aroma of frying dough swept me away to sun-soaked beaches and festive gatherings. Filled with luscious passion fruit pastry cream, this recipe brings not only a touch of island magic but also a delightful balance of sweetness and tang that makes it perfect for special occasions. And let me tell you, the best part? They’re quick to prepare with an overnight dough proof, ensuring scrumptious freshness without overwhelming your day. So, are you ready to indulge in a tropical treat that’s sure to impress? Let’s dive in to make your kitchen the happiest place on the island!
Why are Malasadas so Irresistible?
Airy and Light: These malasadas boast a texture that is both fluffy and slightly crisp, making each bite a heavenly experience.
Tropical Flavor: The zesty passion fruit pastry cream fills the dough with a refreshing tang, perfectly complementing its sweetness.
Quick Preparation: With an overnight proofing, you can prep these delicious treats with minimal hassle the day before your brunch or gathering.
Customizable: Have fun with the fillings! From velvety vanilla to exotic guava, there’s a flavor for every palate.
Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for festive occasions, these malasadas are sure to steal the spotlight and make lasting memories with friends and family.
Malasadas Ingredients
Unleash the tropics in your kitchen with these essential components!
For the Dough
• Bread Flour – Provides structure and chewiness; substitute with all-purpose flour for a different texture, but results may vary.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough and coating; coconut sugar makes a wonderful substitute with deeper flavor.
• Instant Yeast – Key for a light texture; fresh yeast can be used, but you’ll need to adjust the quantity.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor and controls fermentation; sea salt is a perfect alternative.
• Whole Milk – Riches the dough; for a dairy-free option, almond or soy milk works well.
• Large Eggs – Contributes to structure and moisture; replace with flax eggs for a vegan twist.
• Unsalted Butter – Infuses flavor and tenderness; margarine can be used, but the taste may differ.
• Vegetable Oil – Necessary for frying; consider coconut oil for an additional flavor boost.
For the Passion Fruit Pastry Cream
• Passion Fruit Puree – Creates a tangy filling that brightens each bite; use fresh or store-bought puree, or substitute with guava or mango.
• Cornstarch – Acts as a thickening agent for your pastry cream; arrowroot powder serves as an excellent alternative.
With these key ingredients in hand, you’re set to whip up the delightful malasadas that will make every bite a celebration of flavor and texture!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fluffy Malasadas with Zesty Passion Fruit Cream Bliss
Step 1: Dough Prep
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the bread flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and kosher salt until well combined. In a separate bowl, heat the whole milk until warm, then blend in the eggs and melted unsalted butter. Pour this mixture into the flour combination and knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic.
Step 2: First Proof
Once your dough is well-kneaded, shape it into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, covering it with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the dough overnight to develop flavor and ensure a light texture in your malasadas. This overnight proof allows the yeast to work its magic while you rest, creating a dough that’s airy and perfect for frying.
Step 3: Pastry Cream
To prepare the passion fruit pastry cream, heat 1 cup of whole milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Whisk in the granulated sugar, then gradually temper the heated mixture with a blend of your eggs and cornstarch. Continue to cook while whisking until the cream thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the passion fruit puree and a tablespoon of butter, then allow it to chill overnight in the refrigerator for the best flavor.
Step 4: Dough Shaping
After the dough has rested overnight, take it out of the refrigerator and let it sit for about 30 minutes to soften. Roll the chilled dough to about ½-inch thickness on a floured surface, then cut out 3-inch rounds using a cookie cutter. Place the rounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with a kitchen towel, and let them rise at room temperature for about 1 hour until puffy.
Step 5: Frying
Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pot to 365°F (185°C) ensuring there’s enough oil for the malasadas to float freely. Once the oil is hot, fry 2-3 dough pieces at a time for about 2 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and beautifully puffed. Use a slotted spoon to carefully transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil, then coat in granulated sugar while still warm.
Step 6: Filling
To fill your luscious malasadas, transfer the chilled passion fruit pastry cream into a piping bag fitted with a Bismark tip. Poke a hole in the side of each donut and gently squeeze the filling inside until you see the dough puff up slightly, indicating it’s filled to perfection. Enjoy these delightful malasadas warm or at room temperature, and share the tropics with every bite!
Make Ahead Options
These fluffy malasadas with zesty passion fruit cream are perfect for meal prep, helping you save time on busy mornings or during special occasions! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to develop a rich flavor. The passion fruit pastry cream can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring it’s chilled and ready for filling. When you’re ready to serve, let the dough come to room temperature, shape, rise, fry, and fill these treats for a delightful dessert that tastes just as delicious as when freshly made. Don’t hesitate to indulge in this tropical delight with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Malasadas
Room Temperature: Enjoy malasadas fresh on the same day they are made for the best texture and flavor. If needed, store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Fridge: For slightly longer storage, you can refrigerate malasadas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes for best results.
Freezer: Malasadas can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Reheating: To revive the crispy exterior, place thawed malasadas in a preheated oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, ensuring they stay delightful and fluffy!
Expert Tips for Fluffy Malasadas
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Knead with Care: Ensure the dough is kneaded thoroughly for elasticity; under-kneading can lead to dense malasadas rather than the fluffy texture you desire.
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Monitor Oil Temperature: Maintain oil at a stable 365°F to avoid greasy malasadas; a thermometer is your best friend here to achieve that perfect golden crisp.
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Fill Warm: Filling the donuts while they’re still warm makes the process smoother; it allows the pastry cream to spread evenly, ensuring every bite is deliciously creamy.
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Cover for Proofing: When letting your dough rise, be sure it’s adequately covered to prevent it from drying out and creating a crust, which can affect the fluffiness of your malasadas.
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Experiment Freely: Embrace creativity! Try various fillings beyond passion fruit to discover new favorites while still enjoying the magic of the traditional malasadas.
Malasadas Variations & Substitutions
Get ready to unleash your kitchen creativity and elevate your malasadas experience with these exciting variations!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with almond or soy milk to make a deliciously creamy dairy-free dough. This swap keeps the flavor rich without the dairy.
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Vegan Option: Use flax eggs in place of large eggs for a vegan-friendly version. Simply mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg.
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Flavored Dough: Infuse the dough with citrus zest—like lemon or orange—for a refreshing twist. Just add the zest during the mixing stage for a bright flavor boost.
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Different Fillings: Try chocolate ganache or vanilla pastry cream instead of the passion fruit. These classic flavors elevate your malasadas while still honoring traditional recipes.
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Seasonal Fillings: Embrace the seasons! Fill your malasadas with pumpkin spice custard in the fall or a luscious strawberry cream in the spring for a seasonal surprise.
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Spice it Up: Create a spiced dough by adding cinnamon or nutmeg for warm flavors. Adjust the spices to your preference, but remember, a little goes a long way!
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Coconut Crust: Elevate your malasadas by rolling them in shredded coconut instead of sugar after frying. This adds a lovely texture and tropical flair to each bite.
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Guava Twist: Swap out passion fruit puree for guava puree for a sweet, tropical spin on the classic custard. The result is a creamy filling that’s both unique and satisfying.
Explore these options to craft your perfect malasadas! You can even go the extra mile by pairing them with refreshing drinks and sides like a tropical fruit platter or a warm cup of coffee for a true island experience. If you’re curious about making other tropical delights, check out my recipe for a creamy coconut pudding or try your hand at some homemade tropical drinks to complement your snacks!
What to Serve with Airy Hawaiian Malasadas with Tropical Passion Fruit Pastry Cream
These luscious malasadas are perfect for creating a tropical-themed gathering or an indulgent breakfast experience.
- Fresh Tropical Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of pineapple, mango, and kiwi adds a refreshing, light contrast to the sweet malasadas.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this whipped delight complements the pastry cream filling, enhancing the tropical flair.
- Espresso or Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee balance the sweetness of the malasadas, making every bite even more enjoyable.
- Pineapple Rum Punch: Add a fun twist with this tropical drink, perfectly complementing the donuts’ island-inspired vibes.
- Savory Breakfast Skillet: Pair the sweetness of malasadas with a hearty dish of eggs, potatoes, and veggies for a fulfilling brunch experience.
- Chocolate Drizzled Berries: A touch of dark chocolate on fresh berries ties perfectly with the sweet and tangy pastry cream, enhancing the treat’s indulgence.
- Coconut Macaroons: Add another layer of coconut flavor with these chewy delights, which echo the tropical theme of your meal.
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a luscious contrast with the crispy, sugar-coated malasadas.
- Tequila Sunrise: For a festive touch, this fruity cocktail complements the tropical feel and adds a splash of color to your brunch table.
Malasadas with Passion Fruit Pastry Cream Recipe FAQs
What is the best type of flour to use for malasadas?
For malasadas, bread flour is ideal because it provides structure and chewiness. If you need to make a substitution, all-purpose flour can be used, but do keep in mind that this may alter the final texture slightly, making it less chewy and more tender.
How should I store malasadas after frying?
Malasadas are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For slightly longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes to regain their delightful texture.
Can I freeze malasadas?
Absolutely! To freeze malasadas, wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. This keeps them protected from freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes for that just-fried crispiness.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to several factors. First, check the freshness of your yeast; expired yeast won’t activate. Additionally, ensure that your milk isn’t too hot when combined with the yeast—high temperatures can kill it. If these are all in order, try placing the dough in a warm, draft-free area for proofing, or adding a warm wet towel over it might help encourage it to rise.
Are malasadas suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Malasadas can be adjusted for various dietary needs. For a dairy-free option, substitute whole milk with almond or soy milk and use a dairy-free butter substitute. Additionally, to create a vegan version, swap the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg). Be sure to check for any specific allergens in the fillings if you are serving them to guests with food sensitivities.
How can I ensure my malasadas are not greasy?
To avoid greasy malasadas, make sure your oil is at the correct temperature of 365°F before frying. Using a thermometer is the best way to maintain consistent heat. Fry only a few malasadas at a time to prevent lowering the oil’s temperature, and be sure to drain them on paper towels immediately after frying to remove excess oil.
Fluffy Malasadas with Zesty Passion Fruit Cream Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the bread flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and kosher salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, heat the whole milk until warm, then blend in the eggs and melted unsalted butter. Pour this mixture into the flour combination and knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Once your dough is well-kneaded, shape it into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, covering it with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the dough overnight to develop flavor and ensure a light texture in your malasadas.
- To prepare the passion fruit pastry cream, heat 1 cup of whole milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Whisk in the granulated sugar, then gradually temper the heated mixture with a blend of your eggs and cornstarch.
- Continue to cook while whisking until the cream thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the passion fruit puree and a tablespoon of butter, then allow it to chill overnight in the refrigerator for the best flavor.
- After the dough has rested overnight, take it out of the refrigerator and let it sit for about 30 minutes to soften. Roll the chilled dough to about ½-inch thickness on a floured surface, then cut out 3-inch rounds using a cookie cutter.
- Place the rounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with a kitchen towel, and let them rise at room temperature for about 1 hour until puffy.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pot to 365°F (185°C) ensuring there's enough oil for the malasadas to float freely. Once the oil is hot, fry 2-3 dough pieces at a time for about 2 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and beautifully puffed.
- Use a slotted spoon to carefully transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil, then coat in granulated sugar while still warm.
- To fill your luscious malasadas, transfer the chilled passion fruit pastry cream into a piping bag fitted with a Bismark tip. Poke a hole in the side of each donut and gently squeeze the filling inside until you see the dough puff up slightly.
- Enjoy these delightful malasadas warm or at room temperature, and share the tropics with every bite!