Description
Vanilla French Beignets are light, fluffy, deep-fried pastries dusted generously with powdered sugar. This traditional French dessert combines a soft yeast dough infused with vanilla, fried to golden perfection, creating an irresistible treat best enjoyed fresh and warm.
Ingredients
Scale
Yeast Mixture
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
Dough
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Frying and Topping
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm milk and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active and ready for use.
- Mix Dough Ingredients: Stir in the granulated sugar, whole egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and salt into the yeast mixture. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead Dough: Add the softened unsalted butter to the dough and knead for 6–8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. You can knead by hand or use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
- Shape Beignets: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness. Cut the dough into 2-inch squares and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover lightly and let them rise again for 30 minutes.
- Heat Oil: Pour 2–3 inches of vegetable oil into a heavy pot or deep fryer and heat it to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry Beignets: Fry the beignets in batches, cooking each side for 1–2 minutes until they are golden brown and puffed up. Avoid overcrowding the frying vessel to maintain oil temperature.
- Drain and Dust: Remove the beignets with a slotted spoon, drain on paper towels to remove excess oil, and while still warm, dust generously with powdered sugar.
- Serve: Serve the beignets immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For added flavor, incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough before kneading.
- Beignets are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in a warm oven for a few minutes to regain their softness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: French
