Indulge your sweet tooth with a taste of paradise! The islands of Hawaii are renowned for their luscious tropical fruits, rich coconut cream, and velvety haupia (a traditional Hawaiian dessert made from taro root). In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the Aloha State’s most mouthwatering sweet treats. From classic pineapple upside-down cake to innovative cheesecake bars infused with guava and lilikoi (passionfruit), our collection of 18 tropical Hawaiian desserts is sure to transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed shores of Hawaii.
Pineapple Coconut Haupia Pie
Pineapple Coconut Haupia Pie: A tropical twist on traditional haupia, this creamy pie combines the sweetness of pineapple and coconut with a crispy graham cracker 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 pineapple juice
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter and stir until combined. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together coconut milk, pineapple juice, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour filling mixture into the prepared crust.
5. Sprinkle shredded coconut on top of filling.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until filling is set.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Guava Chiffon Cake
Elevate your baking game with this moist and flavorful guava chiffon cake recipe, perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique dessert treat. This refreshing cake is infused with the sweet and tangy flavor of guavas, making it a standout at any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) vegetable oil
– 3 large egg whites
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120ml) guava puree or jam
– 1/4 cup (30ml) heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) tube pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a separate large bowl, whisk together oil, egg whites, salt, and guava puree or jam until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour in heavy cream and mix until batter is smooth.
6. Pour into prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Banana Macadamia Nut Bread
This sweet bread recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the crunch of toasted macadamia nuts, perfect for a snack or breakfast treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, and chopped macadamia nuts to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
4. Beat in the egg until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Mango Coconut Panna Cotta
This refreshing dessert combines the sweetness of mango with the creaminess of coconut panna cotta, perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup diced fresh mango
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
2. Remove from heat and stir in mango, honey, and vanilla extract. Let it cool slightly.
3. Pour the mixture into small individual serving cups or ramekins.
4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional diced mango if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Lilikoi Cheesecake Bars
These creamy cheesecake bars are infused with the sweet and tangy flavor of lilikoi (passionfruit) and topped with a layer of caramelized sugar. Perfect for a tropical-inspired dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup lilikoi puree (or passionfruit syrup)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Caramelized sugar for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Mix crust ingredients and press into the prepared baking dish.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add granulated sugar, eggs, lilikoi puree, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust and bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
5. Let cool completely before topping with caramelized sugar (optional).
6. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tropical Fruit Pavlova
This pavlova is a refreshing twist on the classic dessert, featuring a light and airy meringue base topped with a vibrant medley of tropical fruits. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
– 1 cup mixed tropical fruit (such as pineapple, mango, kiwi, and passionfruit)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
3. Spoon meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet in a round shape.
4. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until crisp and dry.
5. Allow meringue to cool completely. Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
6. Arrange tropical fruit on top of meringue. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
7. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes (meringue), plus assembly time
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is a staple of many gatherings, with its caramelized pineapple rings and brown sugar crust adding a sweet and indulgent touch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (100g) packed light brown sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) pineapple rings, fresh or canned
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper.
2. Arrange the pineapple rings in a single layer on the prepared baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Pour batter over the pineapple rings.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes before flipping onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Coconut Tapioca Pudding
Escape to a tropical paradise with this rich and creamy pudding, infused with the warmth of coconut and the subtle sweetness of tapioca. This simple dessert is perfect for warm weather or as a comforting treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup tapioca pearls
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Rinse the tapioca pearls and soak them in cold water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the tapioca pearls again, then combine with coconut milk, water, sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pudding thickens and the tapioca is cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
6. Pour into individual serving cups and refrigerate until chilled.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Passion Fruit Mousse
Elevate your dessert game with this light and airy Passion Fruit Mousse, perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a sweet treat. This recipe yields a silky-smooth mousse with a burst of tropical flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 oz passion fruit puree (fresh or canned)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 1/4 cup cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, passion fruit puree, sugar, and salt. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and add bloomed gelatin, stirring until fully dissolved.
4. Whisk in vanilla extract.
5. Pour mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh passion fruit seeds or whipped cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Hawaiian Sweet Potato Haupia Squares
Haupia, a traditional Hawaiian coconut milk dessert, gets a sweet potato twist in these delicious squares. Perfect for a unique dessert or snack, these bars combine the comforting flavors of sweet potatoes and haupia.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Stir until smooth.
3. Add melted butter, flour, baking powder, and cinnamon. Mix until just combined.
4. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly browned and set.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pineapple Coconut Sorbet
This light and fruity sorbet is perfect for hot summer days. With the sweetness of pineapple and the creaminess of coconut, it’s a delicious dessert that’s easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine pineapple juice, sugar, and honey. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until it has reduced slightly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream and unsweetened shredded coconut.
4. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once set, scoop the sorbet into bowls and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Guava Malasadas
These sweet and tangy malasadas are infused with the flavors of guava, a tropical fruit commonly found in Brazil and Portugal. Perfect as a snack or dessert, these fluffy donuts are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup guava jam or puree
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and yeast.
3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
4. Fold in guava jam or puree until well combined.
5. Cover dough and let it rise for 1 hour.
6. Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
7. Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop dough into oil, frying for 2-3 minutes on each side.
8. Remove malasadas from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tropical Banana Pudding
Tropical Banana Pudding: A Creamy Delight!
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the creamy richness of pudding, all infused with the exotic flavors of the tropics. Perfect for a warm weather dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup toasted coconut flakes
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
2. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract until melted and smooth.
3. Fold in sliced bananas and toasted coconut flakes.
4. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a chilled dessert.
Mango Coconut Cream Pie
This tropical pie combines the sweetness of ripe mango with the creaminess of coconut cream, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup mango puree
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, combine unsweetened shredded coconut, granulated sugar, and kosher salt.
4. Fold mango puree into whipped cream until well combined.
5. Pour mixture into pie crust and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until filling is set.
7. Allow pie to cool before serving. Top with whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lilikoi Butter Mochi
Lilikoi Butter Mochi: A Sweet Hawaiian Treat
This traditional Hawaiian dessert combines the sweetness of lilikoi (passionfruit) with the creaminess of butter, all wrapped up in a soft and chewy mochi exterior. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups glutinous rice flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup lilikoi jam or puree
– Red food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add in water while mixing until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
5. Flatten each ball into a disk shape.
6. Place a tablespoon of butter in the center of each disk, followed by a spoonful of lilikoi jam or puree.
7. Fold the mochi over the filling to form a triangle or square shape, and press edges together to seal.
8. Cook for 10-12 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until lightly browned.
Pineapple Coconut Cupcakes
These moist and flavorful cupcakes combine the sweetness of pineapple with the creaminess of coconut, perfect for a summer dessert or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine coconut, pineapple juice, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Haupia Chocolate Layered Cake
Celebrate Hawaiian culture with this rich and decadent Haupia Chocolate Layered Cake, featuring a creamy coconut custard filling and velvety chocolate cake layers.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Haupia filling:
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Prepare the cake batter according to package instructions. Divide evenly among prepared pans.
3. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
4. Prepare the Haupia filling by whisking together coconut milk, sugar, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature.
6. Assemble the cake by spreading Haupia filling between cooled cake layers.
Cooking Time: approximately 1 hour 15 minutes (including cooling time)
Tropical Fruit Trifle
Tropical Fruit Trifle Recipe
Escape to a tropical paradise with this vibrant and refreshing trifle, bursting with flavors of the islands. Layers of sweet and tangy fruits, creamy coconut custard, and crunchy cookies come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 cup mango chunks
– 1 cup kiwi slices
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
– 12-15 shortbread cookies, crushed
– Whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine pineapple, mango, and kiwi.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in shredded coconut.
4. Assemble the trifle by layering 1/3 of the fruit mixture, followed by 1/2 of the whipped cream mixture, and then 1/4 of the crushed cookies. Repeat for two more layers, ending with a layer of whipped cream on top.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with whipped cream, toasted coconut flakes, or additional fruit if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep) + chilling time
Summary
Indulge in the sweet and tangy flavors of Hawaii with these 18 mouthwatering dessert recipes. From classic Haupia Pie to innovative Lilikoi Cheesecake Bars, each treat combines the islands’ iconic ingredients like pineapple, coconut, guava, and macadamia nuts in creative ways. Whether you’re craving a creamy Panna Cotta or a decadent Chocolate Layered Cake, these tropical desserts will transport you to a Hawaiian paradise. Treat your taste buds to a sweet escape with this collection of recipes.
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