Classic New Orleans Beignets
Ah, New Orleans beignets—pillowy, doughy delights that perfectly encapsulate the essence of this vibrant city. These little squares of indulgence are not just pastries; they’re an experience! Topped generously with powdered sugar, beignets are best served hot, fresh from the fryer, and make for an irresistible treat at brunch, dessert, or even a midnight snack. Imagine biting into one of these sweet cloud-like confections, the warm dough melting in your mouth as the sugary coating leaves a hint of sweetness on your lips. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to bring joy to your table.
The beauty of these beignets lies not only in their flavor but also in the straightforward preparation. Spend a little time in the kitchen, and you’ll be greeted with the delightful aroma of fried dough wafting through your home. Just one bite, and you’ll see why this beloved dish has captured the hearts of many across generations. Let’s dive into making these delicious beignets!
This is what the finished dish looks like when perfectly baked.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour
- 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar
- 2 teaspoons Baking Powder
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- ¾ cup Whole Milk
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- Vegetable Oil – for deep frying (enough to fill your pot with about 2–3 inches of oil)
- Powdered Sugar – for generous dusting (about ½ to 1 cup, or just go wild)
Gather all the ingredients for a successful beignet-making session!
Directions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and uniform in color.
- Carefully combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just mixed. It’s okay if the batter is a little lumpy—do not overmix.
- Lightly knead the dough on a floured surface about 3–4 times, just to bring it together. Roll out the dough to a thickness of ¼ inch and cut into 2-inch squares.
- In a deep pot, heat the vegetable oil to 360°F (182°C). Gently place the beignet squares in the hot oil and fry in batches. Cook until they are golden brown on each side, about 1-2 minutes per side.
- Once cooked, drain the beignets on paper towels to remove excess oil. Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Ingredient Substitutions: For a dairy-free version, you can use almond milk or any plant-based milk instead of whole milk. If you want to reduce the sugar, consider using coconut sugar in the dough.
- Optional Variations: Add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for an extra flavor kick. You can also fold in chocolate chips or fruit fillings before frying for a delightful twist!
- Storage or Reheating Tips: Beignets are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers at room temperature for a day or two. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in an oven until heated through. Just make sure to re-dust with powdered sugar!
Recipe Information
- Prep time: 30 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
- Difficulty level: Easy
A deliciously indulgent serving of homemade beignets awaits!