Are you ready to indulge in a sweet treat that will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more? Look no further than the classic Portuguese malasada! These soft, fluffy, and utterly irresistible doughnuts are typically coated in cinnamon sugar, but we’ve taken them to the next level by experimenting with unique flavors and fillings.
From fruity and tropical to rich and decadent, our collection of 19 Irresistible Malasada Recipes offers something for every sweet tooth. Whether you’re a fan of classic combinations or bold innovations, these recipes are sure to delight. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring the versatility and creativity that can be achieved with this beloved treat.
So grab your mixing bowls, whisks, and deep fryers – it’s time to get cooking (and indulging)!
Classic Portuguese Malasadas with Cinnamon Sugar
Malasadas are a traditional Portuguese dessert that has gained worldwide popularity, and it’s easy to see why. These soft, fluffy doughnuts coated in cinnamon sugar are irresistible! Here’s a simple recipe to make these sweet treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 tablespoon salt
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– Cinnamon sugar (a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon) for coating
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, milk, yeast, and salt. Mix until smooth.
2. Add sugar and mix well.
3. Heat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
4. Drop the dough by spoonfuls into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway.
6. Remove malasadas from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Coat warm malasadas in cinnamon sugar while still slightly warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pineapple-Stuffed Malasadas with Coconut Glaze
Experience the sweet fusion of Portuguese-inspired malasadas filled with juicy pineapple and topped with a creamy coconut glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 cup whole milk, lukewarm
– 2 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup coconut glaze (see below)
Coconut Glaze:
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add yeast and lukewarm milk; mix until a smooth batter forms.
4. Beat in eggs.
5. Pipe dough into malasadas shapes and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil and fill with pineapple chunks.
7. Drizzle coconut glaze over the filled malasadas.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on frying time).
Chocolate-Filled Malasadas with Powdered Sugar
Malasadas are a popular Portuguese treat that is essentially a deep-fried dough ball, often coated in sugar. In this recipe, we’re elevating the classic by filling them with rich chocolate and topping them with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a smooth batter forms.
4. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
5. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Remove malasadas from oil and let cool slightly.
7. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
8. Fill cooled malasadas with melted chocolate and dust with powdered sugar.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on the size of the malasadas.
Guava Malasadas with Cream Cheese Filling
Experience the sweetness of Hawaii with this unique fusion of Portuguese malasadas and tropical guava, paired with a tangy cream cheese filling.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Guava jam (homemade or store-bought)
– Cream cheese filling ingredients:
+ 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
+ 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
+ 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat the deep fryer to 375°F.
2. Whisk together flour, milk, salt, and sugar in a bowl.
3. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
4. Fry dough in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Allow malasadas to cool on wire rack.
6. To make cream cheese filling: Mix softened cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar until smooth.
7. Assemble by spreading guava jam on the cooled malasada, followed by a dollop of cream cheese filling.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on fryer temperature)
Matcha Green Tea Malasadas with White Chocolate Drizzle
Elevate your dessert game with these vibrant green tea-infused malasadas, paired with a rich white chocolate drizzle. Perfect for a unique treat or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons matcha powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– White chocolate chips (about 1 cup)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Whisk together flour, matcha powder, and salt in a bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar and milk until well combined.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until a smooth batter forms.
4. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
5. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the batter into the oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove malasadas from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Melt white chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.
8. Drizzle melted white chocolate over warm malasadas and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes, including frying time.
Lilikoi (Passion Fruit) Malasadas with Citrus Glaze
Elevate your malasadas game with the sweet and tangy flavor of lilikoi (passion fruit) and a hint of citrus. These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or serving as a unique dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1 cup whole milk, lukewarm
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Lilikoi jam (homemade or store-bought)
– Citrus glaze (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add yeast to lukewarm milk; let it sit for 5 minutes. Then, add melted butter and whisk until combined.
3. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until a smooth batter forms.
4. Cover the dough and let it rest in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C). Fry malasadas in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve with lilikoi jam and citrus glaze.
Citrus Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Whisk until smooth. Adjust sweetness to taste.
Pumpkin Spice Malasadas with Maple Glaze
These soft and fluffy malasadas are infused with the warm spices of pumpkin pie, perfect for a cozy fall treat. The maple glaze adds a rich and velvety texture that complements the sweet potato flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– Maple glaze (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, flour, milk, sugar, and salt. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin pie spice to the mixture. Stir until combined.
3. Add pumpkin puree and mix until smooth.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until elastic.
5. Proof the dough for 1 hour in a warm place.
6. Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
7. Fry malasadas in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Maple Glaze:
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
Whisk together until smooth. Drizzle over warm malasadas.
Cooking Time: About 20 minutes to fry the malasadas, plus proofing time.
Strawberry Jam-Filled Malasadas with Vanilla Glaze
Sweet and indulgent Strawberry Jam-Filled Malasadas with Vanilla Glaze are a perfect treat for any occasion. This recipe combines the classic Portuguese malasada dough with a sweet strawberry jam filling, topped with a drizzle of creamy vanilla glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Strawberry jam (homemade or store-bought)
– Vanilla glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add lukewarm milk, eggs, and melted butter; mix until smooth.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes; cover and rest for 1 hour.
5. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions; shape each into a ball.
6. Fry the malasadas for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
7. Drain excess oil, then fill with strawberry jam.
8. For the vanilla glaze: mix 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; drizzle over the malasadas.
Cooking Time: approximately 15-20 minutes
Banana Pudding Malasadas with Caramel Sauce
These soft and fluffy malasadas are filled with a creamy banana pudding and drizzled with a rich caramel sauce, making for a delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of malasada mix
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. Follow package instructions to mix and fry the malasadas until golden brown.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together mashed bananas, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and salt.
4. Allow the banana pudding to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Once malasadas are fried and cooled, fill with chilled banana pudding.
6. Drizzle caramel sauce over the filled malasadas.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including frying time)
Ube (Purple Yam) Malasadas with Coconut Sugar Coating
These soft and fluffy Ube malasadas are infused with the sweet and nutty flavor of purple yam, then coated in a crunchy layer of coconut sugar. Perfect as a snack or dessert, they’re sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup ube halaya (purple yam jam)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Coconut sugar, for coating
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, ube halaya, and salt.
2. Add granulated sugar, milk, and eggs to the mixture. Mix until smooth and free of lumps.
3. Cover the mixture and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Once hot, drop tablespoon-sized balls of the mixture into the oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Remove malasadas from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. While still warm, coat malasadas in coconut sugar.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes (including resting time)
Lemon Curd Malasadas with Poppy Seed Dusting
Malasadas, Portugal’s famous fried dough pastries, get a bright and citrusy twist with the addition of lemon curd. This sweet and tangy treat is perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 package malasada mix
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
– Poppy seeds
– Confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. Combine malasada mix and warm water. Add melted butter and stir until dough forms.
3. Fry dough balls for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
4. Allow malasadas to cool slightly before filling with lemon curd.
5. Dust with poppy seeds and confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Nutella-Stuffed Malasadas with Hazelnut Crunch
Treat your taste buds to the perfect fusion of crispy and chewy textures, rich flavors, and addictive crunch. These Nutella-stuffed malasadas with hazelnut crunch are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1/2 cup Nutella
– Hazelnut crunch (store-bought or homemade)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add milk and eggs to form a smooth dough. Knead for 5 minutes.
3. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
4. Preheat oil to 375°F (190°C). Fry the malasadas until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stuff each malasada with Nutella while still warm.
6. Sprinkle hazelnut crunch on top and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tiramisu-Inspired Malasadas with Coffee Glaze
Elevate your dessert game with these Portuguese-inspired treats infused with the rich flavors of Italy’s favorite coffee-soaked cake. These malasadas, filled with a creamy mascarpone mixture and topped with a velvety coffee glaze, are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 cup mascarpone cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon strong brewed coffee
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine milk, eggs, and melted butter. Add yeast and mix until frothy.
3. Slowly pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
4. Knead dough for 5 minutes, then let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Heat oil to 375°F (190°C). Fry malasadas for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Fill cooled malasadas with mascarpone mixture and top with coffee glaze (brewed coffee mixed with confectioners’ sugar).
7. Dust with additional confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Red Velvet Malasadas with Cream Cheese Frosting
Experience the fusion of Portuguese and American flavors with these soft, fluffy malasadas infused with the deep red color and subtle cocoa flavor of red velvet cake. Topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting, this treat is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons red velvet cake mix
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
– Cream cheese frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
3. Add milk, melted butter, eggs, and red velvet cake mix. Mix until smooth.
4. Using a piping bag or spoon, drop batter into the hot oil.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve warm.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Spread or pipe onto cooled malasadas.
Caramel Apple Malasadas with Cinnamon Sugar Coating
These sweet treats combine the classic Portuguese malasada dough with the warmth of caramel and the crunch of cinnamon sugar. Perfect for a cozy fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Caramel apple filling (see below)
– Cinnamon sugar coating (see below)
Caramel Apple Filling:
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce
– 1/2 cup diced apples
Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cinnamon powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil to 375°F.
2. Mix dough ingredients and knead for 5 minutes.
3. Roll out dough, cut into desired shapes, and fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Drain excess oil and coat with Cinnamon Sugar Coating while still warm.
5. Drizzle with Caramel Apple Filling.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mango Malasadas with Tropical Fruit Glaze
Malasadas, a Portuguese doughnut, gets a tropical makeover with the addition of sweet mango puree and a tangy fruit glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 ripe mango, pureed
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tropical Fruit Glaze (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add yeast and mix until combined.
3. Gradually add milk and eggs, beating until smooth.
4. Fold in mango puree.
5. Using a piping bag or spoon, drop dough into the hot oil, about 1/4 cup at a time.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain excess oil.
7. Repeat with remaining dough.
Tropical Fruit Glaze:
– Combine 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons mango puree, and 1 tablespoon pineapple juice in a bowl. Whisk until smooth.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Salted Caramel Malasadas with Dark Chocolate Drizzle
Experience the perfect fusion of sweet and savory flavors with these mouthwatering Salted Caramel Malasadas, topped with a rich Dark Chocolate Drizzle.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add milk and yeast to the mixture, stirring until smooth.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until elastic and shiny.
4. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
6. Fry malasadas in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Drain excess oil and drizzle with salted caramel sauce.
8. Melt dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.
9. Drizzle melted chocolate over the malasadas.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (includes rising time)
Peanut Butter and Jelly Malasadas with Peanut Dust
Elevate the humble PB&J by infusing it into crispy malasadas and finishing them off with a sprinkle of peanut dust. This unique treat is sure to delight both kids and adults alike!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1 cup whole milk
– Peanut butter
– Grape or strawberry jelly
– Peanut dust (peanut butter and powdered sugar mixture)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
3. Gradually add milk to form a smooth batter.
4. Pipe the dough into malasadas and fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Remove from oil and let cool slightly.
6. Spread peanut butter and jelly on each malasada.
7. Sprinkle with peanut dust before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on frying time)
Coconut Cream Malasadas with Toasted Coconut Topping
These sweet malasadas are infused with the creamy richness of coconut and topped with a crunchy, toasted coconut topping. Perfect for a special treat or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup coconut cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Toasted coconut topping (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add milk, eggs, and melted butter; mix until smooth.
4. Fold in unsweetened shredded coconut and coconut cream.
5. Drop spoonfuls of batter into hot oil; fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove malasadas from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Toss toasted coconut topping over warm malasadas.
Toasted Coconut Topping:
– Preheat oven to 350°F.
– Spread unsweetened shredded coconut on a baking sheet; toast for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
– Set aside to top malasadas.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Indulge your sweet tooth with these 19 irresistible malasada recipes! From classic Portuguese malasadas with cinnamon sugar to innovative flavors like matcha green tea, pumpkin spice, and peanut butter and jelly, there’s a treat for every taste bud. Try filling them with cream cheese, Nutella, or banana pudding, or drizzle with glazes made from coconut, caramel, or citrus. With so many delicious options, you’ll never get bored of these Portuguese-style doughnuts.