Step-by-step recipe for making malasadas at home

Malasadas

Malasadas are delicious Portuguese fried doughnuts, popular in Hawaii and other regions. Here's a step-by-step recipe for making malasadas at home:

### Ingredients:

**For the Dough:**

- 4 cups all-purpose flour

- 1/2 cup granulated sugar

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1 envelope (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast

- 1 cup warm whole milk (about 110°F or 43°C)

- 4 large eggs

- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

**For Coating:**

- Granulated sugar, for rolling

**For Filling (Optional):**

- Fruit preserves, custard, or chocolate for filling

**For Frying:**

- Vegetable oil for deep frying

### Instructions:

#### Prepare the Dough:

1. **Activate the Yeast:**

   - In a small bowl, combine warm milk and a pinch of sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk, stir, and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Malasadas

2. **Mix Dry Ingredients:**

   - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.

3. **Combine Ingredients:**

   - Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the activated yeast mixture, add eggs, and softened butter. Mix until a sticky dough forms.

4. **Knead the Dough:**

   - Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

5. **First Rise:**

   - Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.

#### Shape and Fry Malasadas:

6. **Prepare for Frying:**

   - Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large, deep pan to 350°F (175°C).

7. **Form Dough Balls:**

   - Punch down the risen dough and pinch off golf ball-sized pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place it on a floured surface.

8. **Second Rise:**

   - Allow the dough balls to rise for an additional 15-20 minutes.

9. **Fry Malasadas:**

   - Carefully place the dough balls into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides, turning occasionally. It should take about 3-5 minutes per batch.

10. **Drain and Coat:**

    - Remove the malasadas from the oil and drain on paper towels. Roll them in granulated sugar while still warm.

11. **Optional Filling:**

    - If desired, inject or fill the malasadas with fruit preserves, custard, or chocolate using a piping bag.

12. **Serve Warm:**

    - Malasadas are best enjoyed warm. Serve them immediately.

Enjoy your homemade malasadas! They're a delightful treat with a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior.