As I savored every bite of those fluffy malasadas, it hit me—these aren’t just donuts; they’re a slice of Hawaiian paradise. This Tropical Malasadas Recipe introduces you to a world where sugar-coated outer shells meet a luscious passion fruit filling that dances on your tongue. The beauty of these homemade treats lies in their versatility—perfect for brunches or celebrations, they’ll leave friends and family raving about your cooking skills. Plus, they’re surprisingly quick to whip up once you get the hang of it! Ready to fill your kitchen with tropical aromas and delight everyone at the table? Let’s dive into making these golden, crispy delights that are bound to brighten any day! Why will you love these malasadas? Delightful and fluffy, these malasadas are a Hawaiian treasure that will take your taste buds on a tropical adventure! Versatile in their fillings—try vanilla custard or even chocolate for variety. Quick to make, this recipe transforms flour, sugar, and creativity into mouthwatering treats with ease. Crowd-pleasing, they’re perfect for brunch or special occasions, leaving everyone wanting more. And if you enjoy other tropical flavors, you might also love Skinny Banana Bread or Rhubarb Crisp—both bring unique flavors to your table! Malasadas Recipe Ingredients For the Dough • Bread Flour – Provides strength and structure; you can use all-purpose flour for a softer result. • Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough; cane sugar can be a delightful substitute. • Instant Yeast – Quickly leavens the dough for that fluffy texture; if using active dry yeast, remember to activate it first! • Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; feel free to swap in sea salt. • Whole Milk – Enriches the dough for tenderness; almond milk works for a dairy-free option. • Egg – Adds moisture and richness; consider flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan alternative. • Egg Yolk – Provides richness and color; you may use a whole egg if needed. • Unsalted Butter – Adds depth of flavor; margarine can be used, but it slightly changes the taste. • Vegetable Oil (for frying) – Essential for frying; coconut oil can infuse a lovely flavor. For the Passion Fruit Pastry Cream • Passion Fruit Puree – Gives that signature tropical flavor; use fresh or frozen, avoiding artificial flavors for best results. • Cornstarch – Thickens the pastry cream; arrowroot starch is a solid alternative if you need one. • Vanilla Extract – Adds a beautiful depth of flavor; fresh vanilla beans make it even more special. Whether you’re crafting these malasadas for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, this malasadas recipe is a delightful way to experience a taste of Hawaii! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tropical Malasadas with Passion Fruit Filling Step 1: Dough Preparation In a stand mixer, combine 4 cups of bread flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 packet of instant yeast, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of warmed whole milk, 1 whole egg, 1 egg yolk, and 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry, then knead on medium-low speed for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover and refrigerate overnight for the first proof. Step 2: Make the Passion Fruit Pastry Cream In a saucepan, heat 2 cups of whole milk with 1/2 cup of sugar until steaming but not boiling. While it’s heating, whisk together 2 egg yolks and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch in a bowl. Slowly temper the egg mixture with the hot milk, stirring constantly. Return everything to the pan and cook over medium heat until thickened and bubbling, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of butter, 1/2 cup of passion fruit puree, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Strain, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Step 3: Shape the Dough Once the dough has risen slightly in the refrigerator overnight, transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness. Using a 3-inch round cutter, punch out circles from the dough. Place these rounds on a parchment-lined baking tray, ensuring they don’t touch. Cover lightly with a kitchen towel and let them rise for about 1 hour until doubled in size. Step 4: Frying the Malasadas In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil to 365°F (185°C). Carefully add a few dough rounds to the hot oil, frying for about 2 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and fluffy. Make sure not to overcrowd the pot to maintain the oil temperature. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried malasadas to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Step 5: Fill with Pastry Cream Once the malasadas have cooled slightly, fill a piping bag fitted with a Bismark tip with the passion fruit pastry cream. Gently insert the tip into the side of each malasada and squeeze to fill them until you feel resistance. This will ensure a perfect cream-filled treat without splitting the malasadas. Serve them warm, dusted with sugar or at room temperature. Malasadas Recipe Variations Feel free to unleash your creativity in the kitchen and tailor these malasadas to your taste preferences! Dairy-Free: Swap whole milk for almond milk and use a vegan butter alternative for a completely dairy-free version. Flavor Boost: Add the zest of a lime or orange to the dough for an invigorating citrus twist that complements the passion fruit beautifully. Chocolate Delight: Substitute passion fruit filling with rich chocolate ganache for a decadent treat that chocolate lovers will adore. Seasonal Pumpkin: For a fall-inspired variation, fill your malasadas with pumpkin spice custard, capturing autumn’s cozy flavors. Guava Goodness: Fill the malasadas with guava jam for a tropical spin that’s sweet and fruity, bringing a taste of the islands straight to your kitchen. Cinnamon Sugar: Before serving, toss the malasadas in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for an added touch of warmth and spice. Nutty Inspiration: Stir in finely chopped nuts like macadamia or pecans in the dough or as a topping for a delightful texture contrast. Pinch of Spice: Add a hint of ground ginger or nutmeg to the pastry cream for a delightful twist that adds depth to the filling. While you’re at it, you might want to check out these other delightful recipes, like Butter Beef Pasta for a comforting meal, or try making Air Fryer Chicken for a crispy, healthy crunch! Each variation brings unique joy to your table. Happy cooking! Expert Tips for Malasadas Knead Well: Ensure the dough is kneaded thoroughly to develop gluten, which helps achieve that airy, fluffy texture typical of malasadas. Temperature Matters: Maintain the frying oil temperature at 365°F; too low can lead to greasy malasadas, while too high can burn them. Seamless Filling: Use a Bismark tip for filling the malasadas with cream. This prevents splitting and keeps your treats beautifully intact. Let Them Rise: Do not skip the rising time after cutting out the dough—this is essential for achieving their signature puffiness. Experiment with Fillings: While this malasadas recipe focuses on passion fruit, don’t hesitate to try different fillings like guava or chocolate for variety! What to Serve with Tropical Malasadas with Passion Fruit Filling Indulge your senses with delightful pairings that complement the vibrant flavors of these Hawaiian treats. Fresh Tropical Fruit Salad: A medley of juicy mango, pineapple, and kiwi adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet, fried dough. The natural acidity will balance out the richness of the malasadas! Strong Coffee: A bold, rich brew enhances the sweetness of the malasadas. The coffee’s bitterness creates a delightful harmony that elevates every bite. Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this topping brings a creamy, tropical flavor that works beautifully with the passion fruit filling. It feels like a gentle hug for your palate! Iced Lattes: The smoothness of chilled coffee drinks adds an inviting touch alongside these fluffy donuts. The cooling effect is perfect for savoring during warm afternoons. Sparkling Wine or Mimosa: Bubble-filled beverages make for a festive pairing, turning your dessert into a celebration. The effervescence is a joyous contrast to the soft donut texture. Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzled on top, this indulgent sauce adds a rich, sweet-salty element that pairs perfectly with the sweet and tart cream filling. Chocolate Ganache: For chocolate lovers, this thick and decadent sauce will take your malasadas to the next level, enveloping them in a luscious coat that’s hard to resist. Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold creaminess melts beautifully with the warm malasadas. A scoop atop the donut creates a delightful dessert experience! Make Ahead Options These Tropical Malasadas with Passion Fruit Filling are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it for the first proof, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully. Additionally, the passion fruit pastry cream can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container to maintain its silky texture. To finish, simply roll out, shape, and fry the malasadas on the day you want to enjoy them. This ensures they’ll be just as delicious and fluffy as if you made them fresh! With these tips, you’ll have a delightful treat ready to impress with minimal effort. How to Store and Freeze Malasadas Room Temperature: Store malasadas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them from getting stale while maintaining their fluffy texture. Fridge: If you prefer to keep them longer, place them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before serving to regain their delightful softness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze malasadas in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a zip-top bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a warm oven to restore their crispy exterior. Reheating: To revive their fresh taste, reheat frozen malasadas in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. If filled with pastry cream, heat them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a warm, indulgent treat. Enjoy your malasadas! Tropical Malasadas with Passion Fruit Filling Recipe FAQs What should I look for when selecting passion fruit? Absolutely! When choosing passion fruit, look for a firm fruit that is slightly wrinkled. A wrinkled exterior indicates ripeness and sweetness. Avoid fruits with dark spots all over, as this can indicate overripeness. How should I store leftover malasadas? Very! The best way to store malasadas is in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you prefer to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying them again to maintain their delightful softness. Can I freeze malasadas, and if so, how? Yes, you can! For freezing malasadas, first, lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or if they’re filled with pastry cream, warm them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. Enjoy them fresh out of the freezer! What if my dough doesn’t rise as expected? Don’t worry, it happens sometimes! If your dough doesn’t rise, check the freshness of your yeast. If using active dry yeast, ensure it was properly activated with warm water. Also, make sure your dough is kept in a warm, draft-free environment to help it puff up. If it’s too cold, the yeast can become sluggish. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day ahead and allow it to rise overnight in the refrigerator. You can also make the passion fruit pastry cream in advance, letting it chill overnight as well. This way, when it’s time to cook, you’ll have everything ready for a seamless cooking experience! Are malasadas safe for pets? No, it’s best to avoid giving malasadas to pets. The sugar and other ingredients can be harmful to them. Keep these delightful treats just for your family and friends to enjoy! Irresistible Malasadas Recipe with Passion Fruit Bliss This Malasadas Recipe features fluffy donuts filled with tropical passion fruit cream, perfect for any occasion. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsRefrigeration Time 12 hours hrsTotal Time 13 hours hrs Servings: 12 malasadasCourse: DessertCuisine: HawaiianCalories: 220 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough4 cups bread flour or all-purpose flour for a softer result.1/2 cup granulated sugar cane sugar can be a substitute.1 packet instant yeast active dry yeast should be activated first.1 teaspoon kosher salt or sea salt as an alternative.1 cup whole milk almond milk works for dairy-free.1 large egg flaxseed meal mixed with water can be used for vegan.1 large egg yolk or use a whole egg.1/4 cup unsalted butter can substitute margarine.Vegetable oil for frying coconut oil adds flavor.For the Passion Fruit Pastry Cream1/2 cup passion fruit puree fresh or frozen, avoid artificial flavors.2 tablespoons cornstarch can replace with arrowroot starch.1 teaspoon vanilla extract fresh vanilla beans enhance flavor. Equipment Stand MixerSaucepanpiping bagbaking trayPot for frying Method Dough PreparationCombine 4 cups bread flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 packet instant yeast, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt in a stand mixer. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup warmed whole milk, 1 large egg, 1 egg yolk, and 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter. Gradually mix wet into dry and knead for 10 minutes until smooth. Cover and refrigerate overnight.Make the Passion Fruit Pastry CreamHeat 2 cups whole milk with 1/2 cup sugar until steaming. Whisk together 2 egg yolks and 2 tablespoons cornstarch. Temper egg mixture with hot milk, then return to the pan and cook until thick, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in 2 tablespoons butter, 1/2 cup passion fruit puree, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Strain, cover, and refrigerate overnight.Shape the DoughTransfer refrigerated dough to a floured surface and roll to 1/2 inch thickness. Use a 3-inch round cutter to punch out circles. Place on a parchment-lined tray, cover with a towel, and let rise for about 1 hour.Frying the MalasadasHeat vegetable oil to 365°F. Fry a few dough rounds for about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.Fill with Pastry CreamOnce cooled, fill a piping bag with passion fruit pastry cream and gently fill each malasada until you feel resistance. Dust with sugar and serve warm or at room temperature. Nutrition Serving: 1malasadaCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 250IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesKnead the dough well for fluffiness and maintain frying oil temperature. Experiment with fillings like guava or chocolate for variation. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
