Malasadas are similar to donuts because they’re also made of fried dough. These delectable pastries are a staple of Hawaii’s culinary culture, and they’re often enjoyed at office meetings, family gatherings, and major holidays. Here’s more insight into where these treats originated and why they remain so popular.

What They Are

Malasadas are ball-like pieces of dough fried to perfection and coated with sugar. The combination of yeast, butter, milk, and eggs makes this pastry more like a bread than a donut. While traditional recipes lacked filling, updated versions can include chocolate and vanilla custards. More flavorful, tropical fillings, like guava, coconut, mango, and pineapple creams, are also available.

Origins

Although they’re popular in Hawaii, these pastries originated in Portugal. Portuguese immigrants came to Hawaii in the 1800s in search of work in the sugar cane fields. They brought the malasada recipe with them, which quickly became a favorite among the locals.

Many of the Portuguese immigrants were Catholic, and they typically made malasadas the day before Lent. This tradition allowed them to use up their sugar and butter, which would have gone to waste during their fasting.

How They’re Enjoyed

Like most pastries, malasadas are best eaten with a hot beverage, whether that’s a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. These delicious treats are often brought to gatherings, like pot lucks and office meetings.

Malasadas are still incredibly popular on Fat Tuesday, which is the day before Lent. Hawaii locals continue this delicious tradition, whether or not they’re Portuguese or Catholic.

If you’re craving this delectable treat, head to Maleko Coffee and Pastries in Honolulu, HI. This coffee shop makes batches of fresh, hand-baked malasadas every morning. Complement your pastry by enjoying it with a hot cup of coffee brewed from locally sourced beans from Waialua. View their menu online, or call (808) 561-2846 to place an order.