Vanilla French Beignets

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

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the warm, fluffy texture of these classic Vanilla French Beignets, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2025-12-21T07:25:55.022Z

These Vanilla French Beignets are a delightful treat that will transport you straight to the charming cafés of New Orleans. Light and fluffy, they are perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, dusted with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness.

        Why You'll Love These Beignets
        Soft, fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Rich vanilla flavor with a hint of sweetness
Perfect for sharing with friends and family
Quick and easy to make at home

      

The History of Beignets

Beignets have a rich history that traces back to the French Colonial era. Originally brought to New Orleans by French settlers, these delightful pastries have become a beloved treat in the region. Traditionally made with a simple dough, beignets are deep-fried until golden brown and often served with a generous dusting of powdered sugar, making them a perfect accompaniment to coffee or hot chocolate.

The name 'beignet' comes from the French word meaning 'fried dough', and they are often associated with celebrations and social gatherings. In New Orleans, beignets are so popular that they have their own festival, celebrating this delicious pastry that has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike.

Serving Suggestions

These Vanilla French Beignets are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. For a classic experience, serve them alongside a steaming cup of café au lait or hot chocolate. The combination of rich flavors and textures makes for a delightful breakfast or snack.

For those looking to elevate their beignet experience, consider pairing them with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. This adds a modern twist to the traditional recipe, making it suitable for any occasion, from brunch to dessert.

Tips for Perfect Beignets

To achieve the perfect fluffy texture, ensure that your oil is at the right temperature before frying. Using a thermometer can help you maintain the ideal heat of 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too hot, the beignets will burn on the outside while remaining raw on the inside, and if too cool, they will absorb excess oil and become greasy.

Additionally, make sure to let the dough rest for a few minutes before frying. This allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a lighter texture. Don’t forget to dust the beignets with powdered sugar while they are still warm, as this helps the sugar adhere better.

Ingredients

For the Beignets

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

For Dusting

Powdered sugar

Gather all ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking process.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. In another bowl, combine egg, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Heat the Oil

In a deep frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

Fry the Beignets

Drop spoonfuls of the dough into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Dust with Sugar

While the beignets are still warm, dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Vanilla French Beignets with a cup of coffee or tea!

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftover beignets, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. However, for the best taste and texture, it's recommended to enjoy them fresh out of the fryer.

To reheat, avoid using a microwave, as this can make them soggy. Instead, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. You can also fry them again for a minute to restore their crispiness.

Variations to Try

While this recipe focuses on classic vanilla flavor, you can experiment with different extracts such as almond or lemon for a unique twist. Adding spices like nutmeg or cardamom can also enhance the flavor profile, making your beignets even more delightful.

For a decadent treat, you can fill the beignets with flavored creams or jams before frying. Chocolate ganache, pastry cream, or fruit preserves are excellent choices that will surprise and delight anyone who takes a bite.

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 type of oil is best for frying?

Vegetable oil or canola oil are great choices for frying beignets.

→ Can I freeze the beignets?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked beignets for up to a month. Reheat in a warm oven before serving.

→ How do I store leftover beignets?

Store leftover beignets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.