2025 Malasada Guide
No trip to Hawaii is complete without a fresh, hot malasada. These Portuguese donuts are a beloved island tradition - fluffy, sweet, and absolutely addictive. Here's where to find the best ones on Oahu.
Counter-serve chain serving cinnamon rolls plus other baked goods & specialty frozen beverages.
Local fixture since 1952 for malasadas (Portuguese donuts), breads, pastries & other sweets.
Bakery & diner since 1950, popular for its breakfasts, comfort food & coco puffs.
A stylish spot for artisan Kona coffee and b. patisserie baked goods.
Bakery/cafe chain with roots in Taiwan, offering coffee & tea plus international desserts & breads.
Bakery & diner since 1950, popular for its breakfasts, comfort food & coco puffs.
A malasada is a Portuguese fried dough pastry brought to Hawaii by immigrants in the 1800s. They're like donuts but without a hole - fluffy on the inside, slightly crispy outside, rolled in sugar. Some are filled with custard, haupia, or chocolate.
The original Leonard's Bakery is located at 933 Kapahulu Avenue in Honolulu, just outside Waikiki. They've been making malasadas since 1952 and there's often a line - but it moves fast and it's worth the wait.
Absolutely! Malasadas are best eaten within an hour of being made while they're still warm. The sugar coating and fluffy texture degrade quickly, so eat them right away or get them to-go and enjoy immediately.
Plain malasadas typically cost $1.50-2.50 each. Filled malasadas (haupia, custard, chocolate) run $2-3 each. Most people get 2-3 for a perfect snack. They're one of Hawaii's best cheap treats.