Malassadas (Azorean Fried Dough)

Malassadas are a tasty treat from the Azores. People love them during festas and special times like Carnaval. These fried dough rounds are soft and fluffy.

They’re rolled in sugar and have that perfect mix of sweet and crunchy. They come from Portuguese traditions, and every island puts its own spin on them.

Back in the day, they were made from leftovers before Lent. Now, they’re a proud part of Portuguese culture. You can enjoy them hot with coffee or as a sweet dessert.

Ingredients:

• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• ¼ cup warm water (100-110°F)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (for the yeast)
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 6 large eggs
• ½ cup whole milk
• 4 tablespoons melted butter (let it cool)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1 cup sugar (for coating)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Mix the yeast and 1 teaspoon of sugar in warm water in a small bowl.
2. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it gets frothy.
3. In a big mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
4. Make a well in the middle.
5. Add the eggs, milk, melted butter, vanilla, and the frothy yeast mixture.
6. Mix it up with a wooden spoon or your hands until you have a sticky dough.
7. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it feels smooth.
8. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-6 minutes.
9. Put the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours, until it doubles in size.
10. Heat vegetable oil in a fryer or a heavy pot to 350°F.
11. Punch down the dough and cut it into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
12. Gently stretch each ball into a thin disc with your hands.
13. Fry them in batches, flipping once, until they are golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
14. Take the malassadas out of the oil and let them drain on paper towels.
15. While they’re still warm, toss them in sugar or a mix of sugar and cinnamon.
16. Serve and enjoy the warm, fluffy deliciousness of fresh malassadas!