Cinnamon Sugar Malasadas (Hawaiian Donuts)

When it comes to indulgent treats that bring warmth to the heart and home, nothing beats the golden, fluffy delight of Cinnamon Sugar Malasadas (Hawaiian Donuts). These little rounds of joy boast a crispy exterior paired with a soft, pillowy interior, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s simply unforgettable. Each bite envelops you in a sweet cinnamon and sugar embrace, making them perfect for any family gathering or cozy winter evening.

Did you know that malasadas have roots that trace back to Portuguese settlers in Hawaii? They are a testament to the beautiful blend of cultures that create the state’s unique culinary landscape. While they may remind you of the fluffy texture of churros or doughnuts, malasadas stand out with their uniquely soft consistency and lightness. So, gather your loved ones and get ready to indulge in a fun and simple recipe that’s sure to charm everyone at the table, just like our popular, comfort-inducing Chocolate Chip Banana Bread!

What is Cinnamon Sugar Malasadas (Hawaiian Donuts)?

So, you might be wondering, what’s in a name? What exactly are Cinnamon Sugar Malasadas (Hawaiian Donuts)? A delicious pastry, of course! Picture this: round, soft donuts that are fried to perfection and rolled in a heavenly blend of sugar and ground cinnamon. The name “malasada” might sound exotic, but it actually means “underdone” in Portuguese, hinting at the delightful softness that defines this treat. It’s often said that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Well, if that’s the case, a fresh batch of malasadas might just take the cake—or the donut! Don’t wait! Dive in and treat yourself to these clouds of sweetness and share them with family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Sugar Malasadas (Hawaiian Donuts)

You’re going to fall head over heels for Cinnamon Sugar Malasadas (Hawaiian Donuts), and here’s why. First, they’re an excellent way to highlight a main dish that not only delivers sweetness but also a delightful texture that your taste buds will thank you for. Secondly, nothing beats the cost-saving benefits of cooking at home, especially when you can make a flavorful batch for less than the price of those fancy coffee shop treats! The aroma wafting through your kitchen as they fry is just the cherry on top.

And let’s not forget about the endless options for toppings. The classic sugar and cinnamon coating can be jazzed up with your favorite dip or glaze—think chocolate, honey, or even a fruity concoction! If you enjoy light and airy desserts as much as we do, you’ll love these malasadas more than a slice of cake at a family gathering. So let’s make them and bring that tropical vibe right to your home!

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Malasadas (Hawaiian Donuts)

Quick Overview

When you’re looking for a sweet treat that brings joy and warmth, Cinnamon Sugar Malasadas (Hawaiian Donuts) fit the bill perfectly. They’re easy to make, visually striking, and most importantly, satisfying. You’ll love the combination of flavors that come together beautifully, with a crispy outside and soft center. From start to finish, you can prepare this delightful dish in about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup milk, warmed
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Oil for frying
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast: Begin by warming the milk until it’s just warm to the touch. Sprinkle the active dry yeast and a teaspoon of granulated sugar over it. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the wet ingredients.
4. Make the Dough: Combine the wet and dry mixtures, stirring until a sticky dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
6. Shape the Malasadas: After rising, punch down the dough and divide it into small balls (about 1-2 inches in diameter).
7. Second Rise: Let the dough balls rise on a floured surface for another 30 minutes, covered with a towel.
8. Fry the Malasadas: Heat the oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the dough balls in batches, turning them until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
9. Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: Remove the malasadas from the oil and drain on paper towels. While still warm, roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until well coated.
10. Serve: Enjoy your warm malasadas fresh, or let them cool slightly before sharing with friends and family!

Top Tips for Perfecting Cinnamon Sugar Malasadas (Hawaiian Donuts)

1. Menu Substitutions: If you want to make these a bit healthier, you can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Just be aware that it will change the texture slightly.
2. Keep It Warm: If you’re frying in batches, keep the finished malasadas in a warm oven (about 200°F) while you fry the others.
3. Avoid Overcrowding: Fry a few malasadas at a time to prevent temperature drops in the oil, which can result in greasy donuts.
4. Frying Oil: Make sure to use oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or vegetable oil.
5. Sweetness Control: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar in the coating to suit your taste preferences.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (which is often rare with such a treat!), here’s how to store and enjoy them later. Once cooled, store your malasadas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to a month. For best results, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to restore their softness and warmth. Enjoy every bite of your Cinnamon Sugar Malasadas (Hawaiian Donuts)– they’re simply the perfect treat for any occasion!

Cinnamon Sugar Malasadas (Hawaiian Donuts)

Indulge in golden, fluffy malasadas rolled in a sweet cinnamon sugar coating, perfect for any gathering.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Servings: 12 pieces

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: Hawaiian, Portuguese

Calories: 250

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Dough Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar for the dough
• 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup milk, warmed should be just warm to the touch
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Oil for frying use oil with a high smoke point

Coating

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar for coating
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon for coating

Method

 

Preparation

1. Begin by warming the milk until it's just warm to the touch. Sprinkle the active dry yeast and a teaspoon of granulated sugar over it. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the wet ingredients.
4. Combine the wet and dry mixtures, stirring until a sticky dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Cooking

1. After rising, punch down the dough and divide it into small balls (about 1-2 inches in diameter).
2. Let the dough balls rise on a floured surface for another 30 minutes, covered with a towel.
3. Heat the oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the dough balls in batches, turning them until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
4. Remove the malasadas from the oil and drain on paper towels. While still warm, roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until well coated.
5. Enjoy your warm malasadas fresh, or let them cool slightly before sharing with friends and family!

Notes

For healthier options, use whole wheat flour. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for up to a month. Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C).