Malasadas – The Irresistible Portuguese Doughnuts You Need to Try
Malasadas are a Portuguese-style doughnut, beloved in Hawaii and beyond. These golden, sugar-coated treats are crisp on the outside and soft, airy on the inside. Made without a hole, they are perfect as-is or filled with custard, jam, or chocolate. Traditionally enjoyed on Fat Tuesday, malasadas are a delightful indulgence any time of the year!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes (plus rising time)
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 14-16 malasadas 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Deep-Fried
- Cuisine: Portuguese, Hawaiian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast (1 packet)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- Warm the milk until lukewarm (about 110°F). Stir in 1 tbsp sugar and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Make the Dough
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
3. Add the eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1½ to 2 hours.
Step 3: Shape the Malasadas
6. Punch down the dough and divide it into 12-14 equal pieces.
7. Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place on a floured surface.
8. Cover with a towel and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
Step 4: Fry to Perfection
9. Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).
10. Fry malasadas in batches, 2-3 at a time, until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side.
11. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel.
Step 5: Coat in Sugar
12. While still warm, roll the malasadas in granulated sugar until fully coated.
Notes
- To prevent greasy malasadas, keep the oil at a consistent 350°F.
- The dough can be prepared the night before and refrigerated for a slow rise.
- Try filling malasadas with custard, chocolate, or tropical fruit jam for a fun twist!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 malasada
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg