Description
Delight in these classic Vanilla French Beignets, light and fluffy fried dough squares dusted generously with powdered sugar. Perfect for dessert or a special breakfast treat, these beignets combine the delicate flavor of vanilla with a soft, airy texture achieved through yeast-leavened dough and frying to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ¾ cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for rolling)
For Frying and Serving
- Vegetable oil (for frying, about 2 inches deep)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of the sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy to ensure the yeast is active.
- Make the dough: Stir in the remaining sugar, egg, vanilla extract, salt, and softened butter into the yeast mixture. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing continuously until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic, which develops the gluten and creates the right structure.
- Let dough rise: Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1 ½ hours or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the beignets: Punch down the risen dough to release air. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about ½-inch thickness, then cut into 2 to 3 inch squares or rectangles.
- Heat oil and fry: Heat approximately 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the beignets in batches, turning once, until they are golden brown on both sides, about 1–2 minutes per side.
- Drain and serve: Remove the fried beignets and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Dust them generously with powdered sugar and serve warm for the best taste.
Notes
- Beignets are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in a warm oven to regain their crispness.
- Add a little lemon or orange zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus twist that brightens the flavor.
- For an indulgent treat, serve with chocolate sauce or a fruit-based dipping sauce like raspberry or strawberry.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 to 1 ½ hours rising time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 beignet
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
