Vanilla French Beignets

Name: Vanilla French Beignets
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 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 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying); Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the sweet, airy goodness of Vanilla French Beignets, a perfect treat for any occasion.

Created by

Keira Dalton

Last updated on 2025-12-23T03:09:36.469Z

Indulge in the light and fluffy texture of these delightful Vanilla French Beignets, perfect for breakfast or dessert. With a hint of vanilla and a dusting of powdered sugar, they are a treat that everyone will adore!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Rich vanilla flavor with a hint of sweetness
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack

      

The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

Vanilla French Beignets are more than just a delightful pastry; they are a versatile treat that can enhance any occasion. Whether you're hosting a brunch with friends, celebrating a special event, or simply indulging in a cozy weekend breakfast, beignets add a touch of elegance and sweetness to the moment. Their fluffy texture and rich vanilla flavor make them a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

These beignets can also be customized to suit your taste. You can infuse them with other flavors, such as chocolate or citrus zest, or even incorporate fillings like fruit preserves or pastry cream. The possibilities are endless, making them not just a treat but also a canvas for your culinary creativity.

Tips for Perfect Beignets

To achieve the light and fluffy texture that defines great beignets, ensure that you do not overwork the dough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined, and avoid excessive kneading. This will help keep the beignets airy and tender, allowing them to puff up beautifully during frying.

Temperature control is crucial when frying. If the oil is too hot, the beignets will brown too quickly on the outside while remaining raw inside. Conversely, if the oil is too cool, the beignets will absorb excess oil, resulting in a greasy texture. Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature between 350°F and 375°F for optimal results.

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 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Make sure to have all ingredients measured and ready before you start.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.

Roll and Cut the Beignets

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

Fry the Beignets

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully drop the dough pieces in batches, frying until golden brown on both sides. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Serve

Dust the warm beignets with powdered sugar and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious Vanilla French Beignets!

Be sure to serve them warm for the best flavor and texture!

Variations to Try

While classic Vanilla French Beignets are delicious on their own, you can also experiment with various toppings and fillings. Consider adding a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for a decadent twist. For a fruity version, fill the beignets with raspberry or lemon curd before frying.

You can also make savory beignets by incorporating ingredients like cheese, herbs, or spices into the dough. These savory variations can be served as an appetizer or snack, providing a delightful contrast to the sweet versions.

Storing and Reheating Beignets

Freshly made beignets are best enjoyed warm, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To maintain their texture, avoid refrigerating them, as this can make them dense and chewy.

If you want to enjoy your beignets later, consider reheating them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes. This will help restore their fluffiness and warmth, making them taste almost freshly made.

Pairing Suggestions

For a complete breakfast experience, serve your Vanilla French Beignets alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, or a rich coffee. A classic café au lait, with its combination of coffee and steamed milk, pairs beautifully with the sweet flavor of the beignets.

You can also elevate your dessert game by serving these beignets with a scoop of ice cream or alongside a warm chocolate sauce for dipping. The contrast of warm pastry and cold ice cream creates a delightful treat that’s sure to impress.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it. Just roll and cut the beignets when you're ready to fry.

→ What oil is best for frying beignets?

Vegetable oil or canola oil works best as they have a high smoke point.

→ How do I store leftover beignets?

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

→ Can I use other flavors instead of vanilla?

Absolutely! You can experiment with almond extract, citrus zest, or even chocolate.