Luau Desserts – A Sweet Ending to a Tropical Feast

Every Hawaiian luau features a large spread of foods that are sure to satisfy even the biggest appetite. It’s one of the central elements of the evening festivities, along with live entertainment and friendly company. Every luau we know features Hawaiian specialties including kalua pig, lomi lomi salmon, and poi, but for many people, a meal just isn’t complete without something sweet. Let’s have a look at some common luau desserts.

One of the best things about a Hawaiian luau is that there is something for everyone, and that includes dessert. Whether you love chocolate or prefer something more naturally sweet like fruit, you can bet there will be something calling out to you in the dessert section of the buffet.

The King of Luau Desserts: Haupia

Haupia is delicious!

If you’re at a luau, there’s an excellent chance it will offer haupia. When it comes to signature desserts, haupia is as traditional as they come. Coconut milk is mixed with arrowroot starch (pia) to make a delicious, refreshing pudding. Haupia can be served in gelatin-like cubes or can be used to top cakes, depending on the density. However it’s served, haupia has a light, sweet flavor most people find irresistible.

Pineapple Cake

Wherever you go in the world, nothing says “Hawaii” quite like pineapple, so you know that a Hawaiian luau is going to feature the iconic fruit. In addition to sweet juicy slices, you’re also likely to find some kind of pineapple cake or bar, and we approve of all of them.

Macadamia Nut Cookies

Second only to pineapples, macadamia nuts are firmly associated with Hawaiian cuisine. In fact, you may come across this buttery little delicacy more than once in your luau feast, since a popular way to prepare fresh fish is with a mac nut crust. No luau desserts spread would be complete without some kind of nutty cookie.

Chocolate Cake

There’s nothing particularly Polynesian about it, but luau chefs aim to please!

Fresh Fruits

Fresh fruit makes a sweet finish to a luau feast

We can’t emphasize this too much: when you’re in Hawaii, you should definitely be eating the local fruit. If there is fresh, seasonal fruit at a luau (and there will be), then it was produced locally. Fresh fruit is the perfect ending to any feast, even if you’re not a big fan of desserts.

What if I Have Dietary Restrictions?

If you have a dietary restriction such as a nut or gluten allergy, be sure to mention it at the time of booking. Generally, they’ll be able to point you to treats that are already on the dessert menu, and most people, regardless of sensitivities, can enjoy fresh fruit.