10 Best Hawaiian Desserts
Hawaiian desserts are known for their unique blend of tropical flavors like coconut, pineapple, and passion fruit, each offering a taste of paradise in every bite. This collection brings together classic Hawaiian treats alongside some creative twists that bring out the best of island flavors. Whether you’re craving something fruity, creamy, or a little more indulgent, each recipe here is a mini escape to the tropics, perfect for any occasion when you want to bring a little Aloha spirit to the table.
Hawaiian Banana Nut Bread from Good Dinner Mom is a warm, comforting take on traditional banana bread, made even better with the addition of nuts and a touch of Hawaiian flair. I love how the coconut flavor mingles with the sweet bananas, creating a truly irresistible loaf that’s moist and full of texture. It’s the kind of recipe that’s hard not to love, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert!
Purple Sweet Potato Pie with Coconut Topping (Haupia) from Cinnamon and Coriander is a showstopper with its vibrant color and creamy coconut topping. Purple sweet potatoes give it an earthy sweetness, while the haupia topping adds a silky, tropical contrast. This pie is as stunning as it is delicious, and it’s sure to wow guests at any gathering.
Old-Fashioned Hawaiian Dream Bars from Noshing with the Nolands are all about that nostalgic, chewy texture we love in classic dessert bars, with layers of coconut, pineapple, and a buttery crust. These bars are easy to make and transport you to a Hawaiian beach with each bite. They’re perfect when you want a little taste of paradise in a simple, crowd-pleasing form.
Hawaiian Cheesecake Bars from The Kitchen Magpie combine creamy cheesecake with a sweet pineapple topping and a nutty crust, creating a tropical twist on a classic dessert. I love how light yet rich these bars are, with a flavor combination that feels like a day at the beach. They’re a great make-ahead option that’s perfect for parties or just a special treat at home.
Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut Poke Cake from Melissa's Southern Style Kitchen is pure sunshine on a plate. The cake is moist and fluffy, infused with pineapple juice, and topped with coconut cream, creating an indulgent dessert that’s brimming with tropical flavors. It’s super easy to make and guaranteed to be a hit wherever you serve it!
Instant Pot Kulolo from Keeping it Relle is a unique Hawaiian dessert made from taro and coconut milk, traditionally steamed in banana leaves. Using the Instant Pot simplifies the process, making this chewy, slightly sweet treat accessible to anyone. It’s a taste of authentic Hawaiian culture and a must-try for anyone interested in exploring traditional island flavors.
Hawaiian Ambrosia from CDKitchen is a fun, colorful dish full of tropical fruits like pineapple and coconut, along with marshmallows for a fluffy, dreamy texture. I love how refreshing and easy this dessert is to throw together, making it a perfect addition to any Hawaiian-inspired meal or a quick treat when you’re craving something sweet.
Hawaiian Luau Pretzel Rods from 3 Boys and a Dog are fun, festive treats that are as easy to make as they are delightful to eat. Dipped in white chocolate and decorated with sprinkles, these sweet-and-salty snacks are perfect for kids’ parties or a Hawaiian-themed event. Plus, they look amazing on any dessert table!
Lilikoi Bars with Fresh Lilikoi Glaze from Little Ferraro Kitchen capture the tart, tropical flavor of lilikoi (passion fruit) in every bite. The fresh lilikoi glaze on top is what really sets these bars apart, adding a vibrant, tangy kick that pairs beautifully with the buttery crust. It’s a refreshing change from traditional lemon bars and a must-try for anyone who loves passion fruit.
Butter Mochi Cupcakes from Zhang Catherine combine the chewy, slightly sweet taste of mochi with the convenience of a cupcake form. Made with coconut milk and glutinous rice flour, these cupcakes have a unique texture that’s slightly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They’re easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends who might not be familiar with mochi!