Looking for a taste adventure that will transport you to a tropical paradise? Look no further! We’ve gathered 20 mouth-watering Hawaiian dessert recipes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you dreaming of sunny beaches and swaying palm trees. From classic haupia (coconut pudding) to creative twists on traditional treats, these recipes showcase the unique flavors and ingredients of Hawaii, from fresh pineapple and coconut to guava and passionfruit.
Whether you’re a local looking for inspiration or a mainland visitor seeking a taste of aloha, these desserts are sure to bring a little bit of Hawaiian sunshine into your life. So go ahead, indulge in some tropical treats, and let the sweet spirit of Hawaii transport you to a world of pure delight.
Pineapple Haupia Pie
Pineapple Haupia Pie Recipe
Haupia is a traditional Hawaiian coconut milk dessert, and when paired with sweet pineapple, it’s a match made in heaven! This pie combines the two flavors in a creamy, dreamy filling nestled in a flaky crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup crushed pineapple
– 2 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust: Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until well combined. Press into a 9-inch pie dish.
3. Make the haupia filling: In a blender or food processor, combine coconut milk, heavy cream, sugar, salt, pineapple juice, and crushed pineapple. Blend until smooth.
4. Pour the filling into the crust: Add the egg yolks and blend until well combined.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
Coconut Macadamia Nut Bars
These chewy bars combine the richness of coconut with the crunch of macadamia nuts, perfect for a sweet and satisfying snack or dessert. With only 7 ingredients, this recipe is easy to make and utterly delicious.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine oats, sugar, and salt. Stir until well combined.
3. Add softened butter, shredded coconut, chopped macadamia nuts, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Press the dough into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Guava Chiffon Cake
Experience the tropical flavors of guava in this light and airy chiffon cake, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons guava puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) tube pan or angel food cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
4. Gradually add oil, guava puree, and vanilla extract to the egg whites, beating until well combined.
5. Sift the dry ingredients over the wet ingredients and gently fold until no streaks remain.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lilikoi (Passion Fruit) Cheesecake
This tropical cheesecake combines the sweetness of passion fruit with a creamy texture, perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique dessert option. The lilikoi curd adds a tangy and fruity twist to this classic dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup lilikoi curd (see note)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs and sugar, then adding melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add granulated sugar and beat until combined.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Stir in lilikoi curd and vanilla extract.
6. Pour cheesecake batter over crust and bake for 45-50 minutes or until set.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Note: Lilikoi curd is available at some specialty stores or online. Alternatively, you can make your own by mixing equal parts passion fruit puree and sugar with a splash of lemon juice.
Banana Lumpia with Caramel Sauce
This recipe combines the classic Filipino spring roll, lumpia, with the sweetness of bananas and a rich caramel sauce. The result is a deliciously crispy and indulgent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 banana slices
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together sugar and water until dissolved.
2. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
3. Place a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface and place a banana slice in the center.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point.
5. Fry the lumpia until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Remove from oil and drain excess grease.
7. In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add sugar mixture and stir until dissolved.
8. Serve warm lumpia with caramel sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Mango Bread Pudding
Mango Bread Pudding Recipe
Summary: A sweet and indulgent dessert that combines the flavors of ripe mangoes with a soft, fluffy bread pudding.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup diced fresh mangoes
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine bread cubes and sugar. Toss until bread is evenly coated.
3. Pour in melted butter, eggs, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. Fold in diced mangoes.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and lightly golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (optional).
Taro Malasadas
Malasadas are a classic Portuguese treat that have gained popularity in Hawaii, where they’re often filled with sweet taro custard. These chewy, sugary balls of joy are perfect for satisfying your dessert cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/2 cup taro puree (or sweet potato puree)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, milk, salt, and yeast.
2. Add sugar and mix until dissolved.
3. Gradually add taro puree while kneading the dough until smooth and elastic.
4. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
6. Once hot, use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop small balls of dough into the oil (about 1/4 cup each).
7. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and puffed up.
8. Drain excess oil on paper towels and dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total frying time.
POG (Passion Orange Guava) Sorbet
Experience the sweet and tangy flavors of Hawaii with this refreshing POG (Passion Orange Guava) sorbet recipe. Perfect for warm weather, this dessert is a unique twist on traditional fruit-based treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups passionfruit puree
– 1 cup orange juice
– 1 cup guava puree
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine passionfruit puree, orange juice, and guava puree.
2. Add sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Add water and lemon juice, stirring to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
6. Pour mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Once frozen, scoop and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Sweet Potato Haupia Squares
Haupia is a traditional Hawaiian coconut milk dessert that’s creamy, sweet, and utterly delicious. In this recipe, we’ll give it a twist by adding sweet potato for added nutrition and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 12 ounces white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup chopped macadamia nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt until smooth. Stir in mashed sweet potatoes and vanilla extract.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth out the top.
4. Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
5. Pour melted white chocolate over the haupia mixture, spreading evenly to cover the entire surface.
6. Sprinkle with chopped macadamia nuts, if using.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
8. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pineapple Coconut Bread
Moist pineapple and sweet coconut come together in this scrumptious bread, perfect for breakfast or a snack. This recipe is easy to make and yields a deliciously flavorful loaf.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup crushed pineapple
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, coconut, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine pineapple juice, melted butter, eggs, and crushed pineapple. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chocolate Dipped Shortbread with Macadamia Nuts
Elevate your shortbread game by adding the crunch of macadamia nuts and the decadence of dark chocolate. This indulgent treat is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms. Fold in granulated sugar, salt, and macadamia nuts.
3. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
6. Dip cooled shortbread into melted chocolate and place on parchment paper to set.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lemon Crunch Cake
Brighten up any occasion with this tangy and sweet Lemon Crunch Cake! A moist lemon-flavored cake topped with a crunchy brown sugar and butter streusel is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons cold butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and eggs until creamy. Add lemon juice and zest; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish. Top with brown sugar mixture (see below).
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Brown Sugar Mixture:
Mix together brown sugar and cold butter until crumbly.
Haupia (Coconut Pudding)
Haupia is a traditional Hawaiian coconut pudding that’s creamy, rich, and utterly delicious. This classic dessert is often served at luaus and other Hawaiian celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated coconut
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the grated coconut, heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and cornstarch.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the pudding thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the salt and vanilla extract.
5. Let the pudding cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes
Pineapple Upside-Down Cupcakes: A Sweet Twist on a Classic Treat
These moist cupcakes are infused with the sweetness of pineapple and the caramelized flavor of brown sugar. The best part? They’re topped with a golden-brown pineapple ring, adding a pop of color and flavor to each bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup pineapple rings, drained and chopped
– Brown sugar (for topping)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, pineapple juice, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped pineapple rings.
6. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
7. Place a pineapple ring on top of each cupcake.
8. Sprinkle brown sugar over the pineapple rings.
9. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Toasted Coconut Ice Cream
A creamy ice cream infused with the warm, toasted flavors of coconut and a hint of tropical sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the unsweetened shredded coconut on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned and fragrant.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the toasted coconut flakes and vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including toasting time)
Guava Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Experience the sweet and tangy flavors of the Caribbean with this moist guava cake, topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting. This dessert is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons guava jam or preserves
– 1 cup whole milk
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until just combined.
4. Beat in eggs, guava jam, and milk.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40 minutes
Poi Mochi
A traditional Hawaiian treat, Poi Mochi is a soft and chewy glutinous rice cake filled with sweet poi filling. This recipe combines the classic flavors of Hawaii to create a delicious and unique dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked poi
– 1 cup glutinous rice flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine poi, sugar, and salt. Mix until well combined.
2. Add glutinous rice flour and baking powder to the poi mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Gradually add milk to the dough and mix until smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball.
5. Flatten each ball into a disk shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
6. Brush the edges of each disk with vegetable oil.
7. Place a small spoonful of poi filling in the center of each disk. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or square shape.
8. Seal the edges by pressing them together with your fingers.
Cooking Time:
– 15-20 minutes per batch, baked at 350°F (175°C)
Pineapple Coconut Tart
This tropical tart combines the sweetness of pineapple with the richness of coconut, perfect for a summer dessert or snack. With a simple crust and a creamy filling, this recipe is easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add melted butter and stir until a dough forms.
3. Press the dough into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
4. Arrange pineapple chunks on top of the crust.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, shredded coconut, honey, and salt. Pour over pineapple.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the filling is set.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Macadamia Nut Chocolate Chip Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the crunch of macadamia nuts with the richness of dark chocolate, perfect for a sweet treat or snack. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these indulgent treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped macadamia nuts
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in flour mixture, then stir in macadamia nuts and chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Lilikoi Bars with Shortbread Crust
These sweet and tangy bars are a Hawaiian twist on the classic lemon bar, featuring the vibrant flavor of lilikoi (passionfruit) nestled in a buttery shortbread crust.
Ingredients:
For the Shortbread Crust:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Lilikoi Filling:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup lilikoi puree (or passionfruit pulp)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Shortbread Crust: Whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter; mix until a crumbly dough forms. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. Prepare the Lilikoi Filling: In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks, granulated sugar, lilikoi puree, lime juice, and salt.
4. Pour filling over crust and smooth top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until filling is set and crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to transport your taste buds to the islands with these 20 delicious Tropical Hawaiian Dessert Recipes! From classic Haupia Pie and Coconut Macadamia Nut Bars to innovative treats like Guava Chiffon Cake and POG Sorbet, there’s something for every sweet tooth. Indulge in creamy cheesecakes, crispy malasadas, and gooey caramel sauces. Try your hand at traditional Hawaiian recipes like Taro Malasadas and Sweet Potato Haupia Squares, or experiment with new twists on old favorites. Whatever your dessert craving, these tropical treats are sure to satisfy!
