Papa John'S Portuguese Malasadas
Portuguese Malasadas are sweet, fluffy fried dough treats with a hint of nutmeg and vanilla, perfect for breakfast or dessert. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they are best enjoyed dusted with powdered sugar. Ideal for gatherings or a special weekend indulgence, appealing to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the dry ingredients: flour, salt, sugar, and nutmeg.
- Add the slightly beaten eggs and beat well to combine.
- Add the cream, melted butter, vanilla, and dissolved yeast mixture to the dough.
- Allow the dough to rise until doubled in size, then work it down and let it rise a second time.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough into hot oil and fry until golden brown.
- Remove the malasadas from oil, drain on paper towels, and sprinkle generously with powdered sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh cake yeast for a lighter texture. If unavailable, you can substitute with 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast. Make sure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F) to achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside fluffy. Allow the malasadas to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar to prevent it from clumping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the malasadas warm, sprinkled generously with powdered sugar. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea and can be enjoyed as a sweet breakfast or dessert. For a special twist, consider serving with a side of chocolate dip or fruit preserves for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover malasadas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Papa John'S Portuguese Malasadas contains roughly 306 calories, with 5g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 945mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before. After the first rise, cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to fry, let it come to room temperature and complete the second rise for optimal texture.
What type of oil is best for frying malasadas?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil. This helps achieve that perfect golden brown color without imparting any unwanted flavors.
Can I add flavors or fillings to the malasadas?
Absolutely! You can incorporate spices like cinnamon or cardamom into the dough, or fill them with custard, fruit preserves, or even chocolate before frying for a delicious variation.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).