We love our sweets here in the islands — and if you’ve ever been to a local potluck, you know the best part is the dessert table. What’s often called “Hawaiian desserts” are actually a delicious fusion of influences from across the Pacific. Japanese mochi, Portuguese malasadas, Filipino bibingka, and Hawaiian staples like haupia and kulolo all earned their place at the table. These beloved sweets are more than just nostalgic — they’re part of everyday life in the islands, enjoyed from “small kid time” through every stage of life.
Each treat has its own fanbase, and every neighborhood likely has its own bakery or mom-and-pop shop serving it best. Here are a few of our favorites, but we challenge you to find your own.
The classic Hawaiian dessert: shaved ice (Shutterstock)
1. Shave Ice
Few things say “you’re in Hawai‘i” quite like a cold, colorful shave ice on a warm island afternoon. Even President Obama and his family made it a ritual to grab a shave ice every time they returned to O‘ahu.
First things first: to sound like a local, it’s “shave ice,” not “shaved.” And on Hawai‘i Island, it’s often called “ice shave.” Not to be confused with coarse snow cones on the mainland, authentic shave ice is made by finely shaving a block of ice until it’s soft and fluffy, almost like snow. The delicate texture allows syrups to soak in rather than slide off, resulting in a refreshing flavor in every bite.
The choices are as vibrant as the syrups themselves. At many shave ice shops, the menu offers dozens of flavors and customizations. One of the earliest enhancements came from Japan: azuki beans. These sweet red beans are often placed at the bottom of the cup, forming a rich, sugary slush by the time you reach the last spoonful.
Other popular add-ons include a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dusting of li hing mui (a tangy plum powder), chewy mochi balls, fresh-cut fruit, and a generous drizzle of sweetened condensed milk — locally dubbed a “snow cap” or “snow on the mountain.” Additionally, many shave ice spots serve syrups made from fresh, locally grown fruit for a more natural variation.
Where to Get It:
Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice (Multiple Locations) — Living by the motto, “All shave ice is not created equal,” with locations across Hawaii (primarily Maui) and a growing presence in California, Florida, and Texas, Ululani’s earned a reputation for serving some of the softest, most flavorful shave ice around. One of their best-selling flavor combos is No Ka ‘Oi, which literally means “the best” in Hawaiian. This tropical trio blends mango, coconut, and passion fruit for a sweet, sunny explosion of flavor. Add a snow cap of sweetened condensed milk and a base of azuki beans, and you’ve got the perfect treat.
Kula Shave Ice (Hilo) — Kula serves up shave ice with a fresh twist — think real island fruit, organic cane sugar, and zero artificial stuff. It’s simple, vibrant, and packed with Big Island flavor.
Matsumoto’s Shave Ice (Haleiwa) — A legend since 1951, Matsumoto’s is famous for its ultra-fine shave ice and long lines worth the wait. Grab a rainbow combo and a souvenir tee while you’re there — it’s a North Shore rite of passage.
Haupia coconut dessert. (Photo Credit: Hawaiianscribe)
2. Haupia (Hawaiian Coconut Pudding)
This traditional Hawaiian dessert is made from rich coconut milk and thickened into a smooth, jelly-like consistency. Often cut into chilled squares, haupia is a must-have at local potlucks, lū‘aus, and family gatherings. Its flavor is subtly sweet and deeply coconut-forward, with a cool, creamy texture that melts in your mouth — light, refreshing, and perfect after a savory meal.
Where to Get It:
Ted’s Bakery (Oahu) — Ted’s is legendary for its Chocolate Haupia Pie — a decadent layering of silky chocolate custard and creamy haupia in a flaky crust. It’s the kind of dessert you order “just to try a bite” and end up eating the whole thing.
Helena’s Hawaiian Food (Honolulu) — Helena’s serves up traditional Hawaiian food with timeless flavor— and their classic haupia is the perfect finish. Simple, authentic, and just like grandma used to make.
Japanese mochi, (Photo Credit: Hawaiianscribe)
3. Mochi
Mochi is a soft, chewy rice cake made from glutinous short-grain rice mixed with water, sugar, and a dusting of cornstarch to keep it from sticking. Originally from Japan, mochi is a beloved treat in Hawai‘i, especially around New Year’s. That’s when traditional mochi-pounding ceremonies bring communities together to pound the rice into its signature stretchy form. Try it plain or filled with sweet red bean paste.
Where to Get It:
Two Ladies Kitchen (Hilo) — With over 20 mochi options on the menu, expect a line out the door and a storefront so tiny only a handful of people fit inside at once. They’re best known for their strawberry mochi with a whole, juicy strawberry and sweet azuki beans inside.
Nisshodo Candy Store (Honolulu) — For over 100 years, this shop has offered traditional Japanese confections. They’re known for delicate chichi dango, manju, and mochi in a rainbow of flavors.
Common Hawaiian treat, delicious butter coconut mochi (Shutterstock)
4. Butter Mochi
A delightful twist on traditional mochi, butter mochi blends glutinous rice flour, coconut milk, sugar, and butter to create a rich, chewy dessert with a golden crust. It’s like a tropical brownie-meets-butter cake. Some variations even mix in coconut flakes for added texture and island flair.
Where to Get It:
Kahuku Farms (Oahu) — On the North Shore, they’re known for their lilikoi butter mochi. Tart passion fruit adds a zesty brightness to the rich, chewy base — making it a refreshing twist on the farm-fresh dessert.
“Do remember to get there early to be able to experience the mochi before it sells out. Yes, it’s that good.” – Alex D.
Local Farmers’ Markets (Varies) — Homemade butter mochi is commonly found at farmers markets across the islands. You can score everything from classic recipes to creative flavors like matcha or ube.
Kulolo is made from grated taro root (Photo Credit: Hawaiianscribe)
5. Kulolo
Made from grated taro root, coconut milk, and sugar, kulolo is a slow-cooked Hawaiian dessert with a dense, chewy texture — somewhere between a fudge and a pudding. Its rich, earthy sweetness makes it a favorite at lū‘aus and local markets.
Where to Get It:
Waiahole Poi Factory (Oahu) — They serve freshly made kulolo alongside other traditional Hawaiian dishes. But their standout dessert is the Sweet Lady of Waiahole, a warm kulolo topped with creamy haupia (coconut pudding) ice cream.
Hilo Farmers Market (Big Island) — Vendors often have homemade kulolo for sale and it goes fast.
Botan candy. The wrapper melts in your mouth. (Photo Credit: Hawaiian Scribe)
6. Botan Candy
Ask anyone who grew up in Hawai‘i, and they’ll probably smile at the mention of Botan Rice Candy. This soft, chewy Japanese treat is wrapped in a unique, edible rice paper that dissolves in your mouth. Lightly flavored with citrus notes like lemon and orange, Botan Candy is as much about the experience as it is the taste. The small box often comes with a toy, making it a favorite amongst children.
Where to Get It:
Local Asian Markets (Varies) — Local markets specializing in Japanese or Asian products are likely to carry this confection.
Online Retailers and Grocery Stores) — Botan Rice Candy is widely available online. Retailers like Amazon, World Market, and Walmart offer everything from single boxes to multi-packs. Some supermarkets, including Safeway, also carry it in-store and online — check the international or Asian food aisles.
Malasadas (Photo Credit: Leonard’s Bakery)
7. Malasadas
Brought to the islands by Portuguese immigrants, malasadas are golden, pillowy doughnuts without holes — crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and rolled in sugar while still warm. While the classic version is plenty tasty on its own, many local spots offer malasadas filled with rich custards, jams, or tropical flavors like lilikoi and haupia. They’re a staple at bakeries across Hawai‘i and a must-try for any dessert lover.
Where to Get It:
Leonard’s Bakery (Honolulu) – Established in 1952 in Honolulu, Leonard’s is iconic for its malasadas, offering both traditional and filled varieties like custard, haupia, and dobash (chocolate). Expect a line — and expect it to be worth the wait.
Pipeline Bakeshop & Creamery (Oahu) — Made to order, hot from the fryer, add a scoop of their small-batch ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.
Tex Drive-In (Honokaa) — On the road between Honoka‘a and Waimea, you can watch them being fried through a kitchen window, then choose from a variety of fillings like guava, mango, and Bavarian cream.
Lilikoi cheesecake is always in demand. (Photo Credit: 808 Sweet Shack)
8. Lilikoi (Passion Fruit) Cheesecake
Creamy, rich, and topped with the bright tang of passion fruit, lilikoi cheesecake is where New York-style indulgence meets island flair. The sweet-tart lilikoi adds a refreshing pop of tropical flavor, making this dessert a standout at bakeries, lū‘aus, and Sunday brunches across Hawai‘i.
Where to Get It:
The Coffee Shack (Big Island) — Perched above Kealakekua Bay, this cozy spot is beloved for its lilikoi cheesecake — creamy, tangy, and served with a side of jaw-dropping coastal views.
808 Sweet Shack (Hilo) — A hidden gem in Hilo, this locally owned bakery crafts decadent lilikoi cheesecake alongside cookies and custom cakes. Sweet, tangy, and made with aloha.
“If you are a fan of Lilikoi Cheesecake you need to try 808 Sweet Shacks version. Different than most that I have tried in a good way. The ratio of Cheesecake to graham cracker crust is perfect and Lilikoi was not too sweet or tart. I also love that the Lilikoi wasn’t just a glaze added after. Consistency more of a gelatin.” Kaipo H.
Guri guri. (Photo Credit: Hawaiian Scribe)
9. Guri Guri
A cross between sherbet and ice cream, guri guri is a light, refreshing frozen treat with roots in Japanese-Hawaiian culture. Traditionally blending strawberry and pineapple, it’s sweet, tangy, and impossibly smooth — thanks to a secret family recipe passed down for generations. With a tropical essence and nostalgic charm, guri guri is a must-try on a warm island day.
Where to Get It:
Tasaka Guri Guri (Maui) — A Maui institution, this family-run shop has been serving up its signature strawberry-pineapple guri guri for generations. Located in Kahului Maui Mall, it’s a nostalgic stop with a cult following — and yes, it’s cash only.
Chantilly cake. (Photo Credit: Jackie Rey’s Hilo)
10. Chantilly Cake
Don’t let the name fool you — Hawai‘i’s Chantilly cake isn’t topped with whipped cream. Instead, it’s layered with a rich, buttery frosting that’s more custard than fluff. The base is typically a moist chocolate cake, but some versions use cream cheese in the frosting for extra richness.
Where to Get It:
Liliha Bakery (O’ahu) — A local institution, Liliha Bakery is famous for its buttery Chantilly cake, served alongside other island pastries and bread. With multiple locations on O‘ahu, it’s a must-stop for dessert lovers.
Jackie Rey’s (Hilo) — Known for its upscale island cuisine, Jackie Rey’s in historic downtown Hilo also earns praise for its decadent Chantilly cake — a sweet finish to any Big Island evening.
Pineapple Upside Down Cake. (Photo Credit: Hawaiian Scribe)
11. Pineapple Upside Down Cake
With Hawai‘i’s rich pineapple culture, it’s no surprise that pineapple upside down cake is a favorite local delicacy. Caramelized pineapple rings — sometimes with a cherry at the center — sit atop a buttery, moist cake that soaks up all that golden, tropical sweetness. Some bakers even fold crushed pineapple into the batter for an extra burst of flavor and flair. Basically, it’s a nostalgic taste of old Hawai‘i served chilled or warm.
Where to Get It:
Hula Grill (Waikiki) — This oceanfront spot elevates the classic with a warm pineapple upside down cake, served with a scoop of ice cream for the perfect balance of hot and cold, sweet and buttery.
Duke’s (Waikiki) — At Duke’s, you’ll find a classic take on this island dessert — moist, caramelized, and best enjoyed with a side of beachfront views and live Hawaiian music.
