Vanilla French Beignets

If you’ve ever craved a sweet, airy pastry with a delicate crisp, Vanilla French Beignets are your answer. These golden pillows of fried dough are subtly flavored with vanilla, dusted in powdered sugar, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. They’re inspired by the beloved New Orleans-style treat and made easy to recreate in your home kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Vanilla French Beignets

• Classic French pastry made simple
• Light, fluffy texture with a golden crisp exterior
• Sweet vanilla flavor that complements the powdered sugar
• Perfect for entertaining, holidays, or cozy mornings
• Customizable with fillings, dips, or glazes

Ingredients

• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• ¾ cup warm water
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup whole milk
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• Pinch of salt
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil recommended)
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions

Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar.
2. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy and bubbly, indicating that the yeast is active.

Prepare Wet Mixture

3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Make sure the butter is cooled slightly before adding so it doesn’t cook the eggs.

Form the Dough

5. Gradually add flour and a pinch of salt to the wet mixture, stirring continuously.
6. Once combined, knead the dough by hand or with a dough hook for 5–7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
7. If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.

First Rise

8. Place the dough in a greased bowl.
9. Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm area for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Shape the Beignets

10. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ½-inch thickness.
11. Cut the dough into 2-inch squares or desired shapes using a knife or pastry cutter.

Heat the Oil

12. In a deep pot or deep fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
13. Use a thermometer to maintain the correct frying temperature.

Fry the Beignets

14. Carefully lower a few dough squares into the hot oil without overcrowding the pot.
15. Fry for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and puffed.
16. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the beignets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Dust and Serve

17. Let beignets cool slightly, then generously dust with powdered sugar.
18. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips and Variations

• Let dough rise longer in the fridge overnight for deeper flavor.
• Add 1 tsp cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a spice twist.
• Fill beignets with fruit preserves, chocolate, or cream after frying.
• For a festive look, mix cinnamon into the powdered sugar before dusting.
• Use a fine-mesh sieve for an even, snow-like powdered sugar finish.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve on a large platter with dipping sauces like chocolate or caramel.
• Enjoy with a café au lait, espresso, or hot cocoa.
• For brunch, pair with fresh berries, fruit compote, or whipped cream.
• Add a sprinkle of lemon zest to the powdered sugar for a citrus kick.

Storage / Reheating

• Store cooled beignets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day.
• To reheat: Place in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes to regain crispness.
• Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
• Freeze: Store in a zip-top freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dough and refrigerate overnight. Let come to room temp before rolling and frying.

Can I use a different type of milk?
Whole milk is preferred, but you can use almond, oat, or evaporated milk.

Why didn’t my beignets puff up?
The dough may not have risen enough or the oil wasn’t hot enough—ensure oil is at 350°F.

Can I fill them?
Absolutely! Inject with jam, custard, or Nutella after frying and cooling slightly.

Are they like donuts?
They’re similar, but lighter and more pillowy—and not as sweet on their own.

Conclusion

Vanilla French Beignets are an irresistible treat—crispy outside, soft inside, and kissed with vanilla and powdered sugar. Whether you serve them for breakfast, dessert, or a special gathering, these beignets deliver French bakery bliss in every bite. Make them once and they’ll become a staple in your recipe box.

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