Beignets
How to make soft, sweet, and delicious New Orleans style Beignets. These delightful treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering, a cozy brunch, or simply a sweet indulgence for yourself. With their light and airy texture, dusted with powdered sugar, beignets are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This beignet recipe is straightforward, making it accessible even for novice bakers.
- Delicious Flavor: Each bite of these beignets offers a rich, buttery flavor complemented by a hint of vanilla.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Beignets are ideal for celebrations, weekend breakfasts, or as an afternoon treat with coffee.
- Customizable: You can experiment with fillings or toppings to create your unique twist on this classic dessert.
- Fun to Fry: The process of frying these doughnuts is not only rewarding but also adds an exciting element to your cooking experience.
Tools and Preparation
To make the perfect beignets, having the right tools will streamline the process and ensure great results. Here’s what you’ll need:
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or large mixing bowl
- Dough hook (if using a stand mixer)
- Rolling pin
- Pizza cutter or knife
- Large pot or deep fryer
- Candy thermometer
- Wire cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: This makes kneading the dough much easier and quicker than doing it by hand.
- Candy thermometer: It ensures that your oil is at the right temperature for frying, helping achieve perfectly cooked beignets.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 3/4 cup warm water (between 110°F)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
– 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 envelope)
– 1 large egg (room temperature)
– 1/2 cup milk (or evaporated milk (120ml) room temperature)
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (10ml)
– 3 3/4 cups All Purpose flour (450g)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (at room temperature (42g))
– Vegetable oil (for deep frying or peanut oil)
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar (60g)
How to Make Beignets
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
Add the warm water to the bowl of a stand mixer or a large bowl if making this by hand. Add the yeast and half the sugar then set aside for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes bubbly.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
Measure out 3 ¾ cups of flour and mix it with the teaspoon of salt. Set this mixture aside.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once the yeast mixture bubbles, pour in the milk, vanilla extract, remaining sugar, and add the egg. Whisk together. Then add half of the flour mixture and whisk until smooth.
Step 4: Knead Dough
Attach a dough hook to your stand mixer. Add the remaining flour and begin mixing on medium speed. Once combined, add butter and continue mixing until smooth and pulling away from the bowl—about 4 minutes. If too sticky, mix in an extra ¼ cup of flour.
Step 5: Let Dough Rise
Transfer the dough into a large lightly oiled bowl. Cover it and let it rise in a warm place for at least two hours. Alternatively, you can refrigerate it for up to 48 hours.
Step 6: Heat Oil
Add about 3 inches of vegetable oil to a large pot fitted with a candy thermometer over medium-high heat. Cover a wire cooling rack with several layers of paper towels.
Step 7: Roll Out Dough
Once risen, roll out the dough into a rectangle about ½ inch thick on a floured surface. Cut into squares measuring approximately 2-2½ inches using a pizza cutter.
Step 8: Fry Beignets
When oil reaches 360°F, add beignets in batches of three or four. Fry until puffed and golden on one side; flip them over until both sides are golden brown.
Step 9: Dust with Sugar
Remove beignets using a spider or slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving!
Enjoy your homemade beignets!
How to Serve Beignets
Beignets are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve them for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack, these fluffy French donuts will impress your guests. Here are some tasty serving suggestions to elevate your beignet experience.
With Coffee
- Pair your beignets with a hot cup of coffee for a classic breakfast combo. The rich flavors of coffee complement the sweetness of the beignets perfectly.
Dusted with Chocolate
- Drizzle melted chocolate over your beignets for a decadent twist. This addition adds richness and makes them even more indulgent.
Served with Fruit Compote
- Top your beignets with a warm fruit compote, such as berry or apple. The tangy fruit balances the sweetness and adds freshness.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Create an ice cream sandwich by placing a scoop of ice cream between two beignets. This is an excellent way to enjoy them as a dessert on warm days.
With Chantilly Cream
- Serve your beignets with whipped cream, also known as Chantilly cream. The light and airy texture makes for an ideal topping.
Dusting Variations
- Experiment with different powdered sugar toppings—try cinnamon sugar or even matcha powder for unique flavors.
How to Perfect Beignets
Making perfect beignets requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your beignets turn out soft, fluffy, and delicious every time.
- Use warm water: Make sure the water is at the right temperature (about 110°F) to activate the yeast effectively.
- Let the dough rise: Allowing enough time for the dough to rise is crucial for achieving that fluffy texture.
- Maintain oil temperature: Keep the frying oil at 360°F; too hot will burn them, while too cold will make them greasy.
- Roll evenly: Roll your dough to an even thickness to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Dust generously: Don’t skimp on powdered sugar! A generous dusting enhances both flavor and presentation.
- Enjoy fresh: Beignets are best served immediately after frying when they’re warm and fresh.
Best Side Dishes for Beignets
Beignets can shine on their own, but pairing them with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider when serving beignets.
- Fresh Fruit Salad – A light and refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a nice contrast to sweet beignets.
- Crispy Bacon – The salty crunch of bacon balances out the sweetness, making it a perfect breakfast pairing.
- Savory Eggs – Scrambled or poached eggs add protein and complement the flavors beautifully.
- Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy side that pairs well with beignets.
- Cheese Platter – Offer a selection of cheeses; creamy brie or sharp cheddar work well alongside sweet treats.
- Nutella Dip – A small bowl of Nutella gives everyone something sweet to dip their beignets into for added fun.
- Maple Syrup – Drizzling maple syrup over freshly made beignets adds another layer of sweetness that many love.
- Chai Tea – Serve chai tea alongside your dish; its spices beautifully complement the flavors of fried dough.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making beignets can be a delightful experience, but some common errors can ruin your treats. Here are some mistakes to avoid for perfect beignets every time.
- Ignoring yeast activation: Always allow the yeast to bubble before mixing it with other ingredients. If it’s not activated, your dough won’t rise properly.
- Overworking the dough: Be careful not to mix or knead the dough too much after adding the butter. Overworking can lead to dense beignets instead of light and airy ones.
- Incorrect oil temperature: If the oil is too hot, the outside will cook too quickly while the inside remains raw. Use a thermometer to maintain the right temperature around 360°F.
- Cutting uneven squares: For even cooking, ensure your beignet squares are uniform in size. Irregular shapes may fry unevenly, leading to inconsistent textures.
- Skipping powdered sugar: Don’t forget this final touch! Dusting with powdered sugar after frying adds sweetness and makes your beignets look irresistible.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover beignets in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 2 days in the fridge while maintaining their taste.
Freezing Beignets
- For longer storage, freeze un-fried beignet squares on a baking sheet until solid then transfer them to a freezer bag.
- They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Beignets
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and place beignets on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on low power for about 10-15 seconds. This method may make them slightly chewy.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm each side for about 1 minute for a crispy exterior.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making beignets that you might find helpful.
How do I know if my beignet dough has risen enough?
The dough should double in size and feel puffy when gently pressed.
Can I make filled beignets?
Yes! You can fill them with jam, cream, or chocolate before frying for a delicious twist.
What is the best oil for frying beignets?
Peanut oil is excellent due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor, but vegetable oil works well too.
Are beignets gluten-free?
Traditional beignets contain all-purpose flour; however, you can use gluten-free flour as a substitute for a gluten-free option.
Final Thoughts
Beignets are not just desserts; they are experiences full of warmth and joy. These fluffy treats can easily adapt to your preferences—try different fillings or toppings! Whether you’re enjoying them fresh from the fryer or customizing them for special occasions, they’re sure to delight everyone at your table.
New Orleans Style Beignets
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: About 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful taste of homemade Beignets, those soft and sweet French donuts that have become a beloved treat around the world, especially in New Orleans. With their pillowy texture and generous dusting of powdered sugar, these treats are perfect for any occasion—be it a festive gathering, lazy brunch, or a sweet snack for yourself. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures your beignets turn out light, airy, and irresistibly delicious every time. Whether served alongside coffee or drizzled with chocolate, they will surely impress everyone who takes a bite!
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup milk (or evaporated milk)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and half the sugar; let sit until bubbly.
- Mix flour and salt in a separate bowl; set aside.
- Once bubbly, add milk, vanilla extract, remaining sugar, and egg to the yeast mixture; whisk well.
- Gradually mix in half the flour until smooth. Add remaining flour and butter; knead until the dough pulls away from the bowl.
- Let the dough rise in a lightly oiled bowl covered for at least two hours.
- Heat oil in a pot to 360°F.
- Roll out dough and cut into squares; fry until golden brown on both sides.
- Drain on paper towels and dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
