Name: Vanilla French Beignets
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: PT-486109H29M44S
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 cup warm water (around 110°F); 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet); ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; ½ cup evaporated milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; ¼ teaspoon salt; Vegetable oil (for frying); Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Vanilla French Beignets are delightful, soft pastries with a rich, airy texture and a hint of vanilla. These little squares of fried dough are dusted with powdered sugar, making them perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any time you crave something sweet. With their light crunch on the outside and pillowy softness on the inside, these beignets are a simple yet delicious treat to enjoy with family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These beignets are incredibly light and fluffy, with a subtle vanilla flavor that makes them irresistible. The dough is perfectly balanced, not too sweet but with just enough vanilla to enhance the fried dough. They are quick to prepare, fry to a golden crisp, and are topped with a generous amount of powdered sugar for a classic finish. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, dessert, or as an indulgent snack, they’re sure to be a hit!

Vanilla French Beignets

Ingredients

1 cup warm water (around 110°F)
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
½ cup evaporated milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
¼ teaspoon salt
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Powdered sugar (for dusting)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly. This means the yeast is ready to use.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth. Be sure the butter isn’t too hot, as it could cook the egg.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring to combine. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment or knead the dough by hand.
Knead the Dough: Once the ingredients are combined, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour until it reaches the right consistency.
First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out to about ¼ inch thickness. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into 2-inch squares.
Heat the Oil: In a large pot or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the right temperature, as this will give the beignets the perfect crispy texture.
Fry the Beignets: Carefully drop the dough squares into the hot oil, a few at a time. Fry them for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown and puffed up. Be careful not to overcrowd the pot, as that can lower the oil temperature and cause uneven frying.
Drain and Dust: Use a slotted spoon to remove the beignets from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. While they are still warm, generously dust them with powdered sugar.
Serve: Serve the beignets warm for the best texture. They are perfect on their own or with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 12 beignets
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Rising Time: 1 ½ to 2 hours
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes

Variations

Citrus Twist: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a fresh, citrusy flavor.
Spiced Beignets: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
Chocolate Filling: For a richer treat, pipe some chocolate ganache into the center of each beignet before frying.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Beignets are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day.
Reheating: To refresh the beignets, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and bake them for about 5 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast in place of active dry yeast. There’s no need to activate instant yeast in warm water; just mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, after the first rise, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before rolling it out and frying.

What if my dough is too sticky?

If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency for kneading and rolling out.

How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature?

Use a candy thermometer to check the oil temperature. Alternatively, drop a small piece of dough into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, after cutting the dough into squares, you can freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Fry them directly from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the frying time.

Can I bake the beignets instead of frying them?

While the beignets are traditionally fried, you can bake them in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10-12 minutes for a lighter version. However, the texture won’t be as crispy as when fried.

How can I prevent the beignets from absorbing too much oil?

To avoid overly oily beignets, make sure the oil temperature is maintained between 350°F and 375°F. Fry in small batches and don’t overcrowd the pot.

Can I use a different type of milk?

You can substitute evaporated milk with whole milk, almond milk, or coconut milk. This will slightly alter the flavor and texture but still work well in the recipe.

How do I store leftover beignets?

Store leftover beignets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. To refresh them, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes before serving.

Can I make mini beignets?

Yes, you can cut the dough into smaller squares to make mini beignets. Just adjust the frying time, as the smaller pieces will cook faster.

Conclusion

Vanilla French Beignets are a delicious, light, and sweet treat perfect for any occasion. The vanilla flavor pairs wonderfully with the crispy exterior and soft interior, making them a perfect indulgence. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering, for breakfast, or as a snack, these beignets are sure to be a hit!