Vanilla French Beignets

Name: Vanilla French Beignets
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 beignets
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup whole milk; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; Vegetable oil for frying; Powdered sugar

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in these airy and fluffy Vanilla French Beignets, perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of day.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-23T18:51:43.802Z

These Vanilla French Beignets are a classic treat that brings a taste of France to your kitchen. With their soft, pillowy texture and rich vanilla flavor, they are sure to impress your family and friends.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Light and airy with a hint of vanilla sweetness
Perfectly dusted with powdered sugar for a delightful finish
Great for sharing at brunch or special occasions

      

The Joy of Beignets

Beignets are a delectable treat that has captured the hearts of many, especially in French and New Orleans cuisine. These delightful pastries are known for their airy texture and sweet flavor, making them a favorite for breakfast or dessert. The lightness of the dough, combined with the rich aroma of vanilla, creates an irresistible combination that is perfect for any occasion.

Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or served alongside fresh fruit, beignets offer a unique culinary experience. Their fluffy nature makes them perfect for soaking up flavors, and the powdered sugar dusting adds an extra touch of sweetness. With each bite, you'll be transported to a café in Paris, savoring the simple pleasures of life.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Vanilla French Beignets are incredibly versatile, making them an excellent choice for gatherings, brunches, and special celebrations. Their charming appearance and delightful taste make them a hit with both kids and adults alike. You can easily prepare a large batch to serve at parties or enjoy them as a cozy breakfast treat on a lazy weekend morning.

Additionally, these beignets can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding chocolate chips, citrus zest, or spices to the dough for a unique twist. You can also serve them with a variety of dipping sauces, such as chocolate or caramel, to elevate the experience even further.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Beignets

Making Vanilla French Beignets at home may seem daunting, but our step-by-step guide simplifies the process. Start by preparing your dough with a few basic ingredients, and soon you'll have a light, fluffy mixture ready to be transformed into delectable pastries. Rolling out the dough to the perfect thickness is key to achieving that signature airy texture, so take your time during this step.

Frying beignets can seem intimidating, but with the right temperature and technique, you'll find it easy and rewarding. Make sure your oil is hot enough to ensure they fry to a golden brown without becoming greasy. Using a slotted spoon helps remove them from the oil safely, keeping the beignets intact and ready for their sugary finish.

Ingredients

For the Beignets

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup whole milk
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Vegetable oil for frying

For Dusting

Powdered sugar

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, mix the milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients until a smooth dough forms.

Shape the Beignets

On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thick. Cut into squares or circles using a knife or cookie cutter.

Fry the Beignets

In a deep skillet or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the beignet pieces into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Dust with Sugar

While still warm, dust the beignets generously with powdered sugar. Serve immediately for the best taste!

Enjoy your delicious Vanilla French Beignets fresh out of the fryer!

Tips for the Best Beignets

To achieve the perfect beignets, ensure your oil is properly heated to 350°F (175°C). Using a kitchen thermometer can help maintain the right temperature, preventing the dough from absorbing too much oil and becoming greasy. If you don't have a thermometer, you can drop a small piece of dough into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, it's ready.

For extra flavor, consider infusing your dough with additional ingredients like orange zest or a hint of nutmeg. These subtle flavors can enhance the overall taste of your beignets, making them even more delightful. Remember to always dust them with powdered sugar while they’re warm for the best adherence and presentation.

Storing and Reheating Beignets

If you have leftover beignets, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To maintain their fluffy texture, avoid refrigerating them, as this can cause them to become stale. For a longer shelf life, you can freeze them; just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

When it comes to reheating, the best method is to pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This will help restore their crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. Alternatively, you can reheat them in an air fryer for a few minutes, which gives them a nice crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Vanilla French Beignets are delicious on their own, but they can also be paired with a variety of accompaniments. Serve them with a side of fresh fruit, like berries or sliced bananas, for a refreshing contrast to their sweetness. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream can turn these pastries into an indulgent dessert.

For a delightful brunch experience, consider pairing beignets with a rich café au lait or a flavored latte. The warmth of the coffee complements the sweetness of the beignets, creating a perfect balance. Don't forget to sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or cocoa powder over the powdered sugar for an added layer of flavor!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before frying.

→ What oil is best for frying beignets?

Vegetable oil or canola oil is recommended for frying due to their high smoke points.

→ Can I bake these instead of frying?

While frying gives the best texture, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, but they may not be as fluffy.

→ How do I store leftover beignets?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.