New Orleans-Style Beignets

These easy New Orleans-Style Beignets will transport you right to the French Quarter. Fluffy, sweet, and dusted with powdered sugar, they are perfect for breakfast or a delightful dessert. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or celebrating Mardi Gras, these beignets are sure to impress your guests with their delicious flavor and irresistible texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Make: With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up these beignets even if you’re new to baking.
• Deliciously Sweet: The combination of sugar and warm dough creates a mouthwatering treat that everyone will love.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve them at brunch, parties, or as an afternoon snack; they’re always a hit!
• Customizable: Add your favorite flavors or toppings to make these beignets uniquely yours.
• Memorable Experience: Making beignets is not just cooking; it’s about creating joyful moments in the kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this recipe for New Orleans-style beignets, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large microwave-safe bowl
• Wooden spoon or sturdy spatula
• Rolling pin
• Pizza cutter or sharp knife
• Large Dutch oven
• Deep-fry thermometer
• Fine-mesh strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Microwave-Safe Bowl: Ideal for warming liquids without risking burns or spills.
• Deep-Fry Thermometer: Ensures perfect oil temperature for frying, resulting in golden-brown beignets every time.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 3/4 cup water
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, very soft
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, divided, plus more for kneading and cutting
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

For Frying and Serving

• 1 quart peanut or vegetable oil, plus more for the bowl
• 1 cup powdered sugar

How to Make New Orleans-Style Beignets

Step 1: Warm the Milk Mixture

Place 3/4 cup water and 1/2 cup whole milk in a large microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 1 1/2 minutes on full power. Alternatively, you can warm the milk and water in a small saucepan over medium heat for about 1 minute. The mixture should be warm but cooler than 100°F.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

Whisk 1/3 cup granulated sugar into the milk mixture. Then sprinkle with 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast and set aside for 15 minutes until the yeast has become foamy.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add 1 large beaten egg, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 2 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, and 2 cups of the flour to the milk mixture. Beat with a wooden spoon or sturdy spatula until thick but smooth. Add the remaining 1 1/2 cups flour and beat again until just combined. You want a thick batter-like consistency.

Step 4: Prepare Dough for Rising

Dust a work surface with about 1/4 cup more flour and dump the dough onto it. Gently fold the dough over itself three to four times (the dough will be sticky). Shape it into a round and place in a well-oiled bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel.

Step 5: Let It Rise

Set the bowl in a warm place to rise until doubled in size, about 1 1/2 to 2 hours. Alternatively, cover it with plastic wrap and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator for about eight to ten hours.

Step 6: Heat Oil

Heat one quart of peanut or vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven fitted with a deep-fry thermometer over medium-high heat until it reaches 370ºF. Line a baking sheet with two layers of paper towels. If using refrigerated dough, pull it out just before heating the oil to let it warm slightly.

Step 7: Roll Out Dough

While heating oil, dust another work surface with about 1/4 cup of flour. Roll out the dough into a rectangle measuring approximately 17×11 inches and about 1/4-inch thick. Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut it into about twenty-two pieces (each around two inches square).

Step 8: Fry Beignets

Fry three to four squares at a time by gently adding them to hot oil (using hands or tongs). Immediately ladle hot oil over them using a large heatproof spoon. Fry until golden brown on one side (about one to two minutes), then flip using tongs or spoon and fry until golden brown on the other side (another one to two minutes).

Step 9: Transfer Beignets

Transfer fried pieces onto paper towels on your lined baking sheet and repeat with remaining dough.

Step 10: Dust with Powdered Sugar

Just before serving while still warm, use a large fine-mesh strainer to generously dust the beignets with one cup of powdered sugar. Serve immediately!

Enjoy making these delightful New Orleans-style beignets!

How to Serve New Orleans-Style Beignets

Serving New Orleans-style beignets is an experience that brings joy and sweetness to any gathering. These fluffy pastries are best enjoyed fresh and warm, dusted with powdered sugar. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will elevate your beignet experience.

With Café Au Lait

• This classic pairing of coffee with steamed milk complements the sweetness of beignets perfectly. Enjoy a warm cup alongside your pastries for a true New Orleans feel.

As a Dessert

• Serve beignets as a delightful dessert after any meal. Their light texture and sweetness make them a satisfying end to dinner, especially when paired with vanilla ice cream.

At Brunch

• Beignets are a fantastic addition to any brunch spread. Present them on a beautiful platter, allowing guests to enjoy them alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, or smoothies.

With Fresh Fruit Compote

• Drizzle warm fruit compote over the beignets for a fruity twist. Seasonal berries or stone fruits work wonderfully as toppings, adding color and flavor.

Dusted with Chocolate or Caramel Sauce

• For those who crave extra sweetness, serve your beignets with sides of melted chocolate or caramel sauce for dipping. It adds another layer of indulgence to this classic treat.

As Party Favors

• Package individual servings of beignets in festive boxes or bags for guests to take home. This makes for a sweet and memorable takeaway from your event.

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How to Perfect New Orleans-Style Beignets

Creating perfect New Orleans-style beignets requires attention to detail and some helpful techniques. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use fresh yeast: Ensure your yeast is active by checking its expiration date. Fresh yeast will create fluffier beignets.
• Monitor oil temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil at 370ºF. Too hot or too cool can affect frying time and texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the fryer: Fry only 3 to 4 pieces at once. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature and results in greasy beignets.
• Dust generously with powdered sugar: A heavy dusting of powdered sugar not only enhances presentation but also balances the flavors beautifully.
• Serve immediately: Beignets taste best fresh out of the fryer. Serve them right away for maximum enjoyment.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

Best Side Dishes for New Orleans-Style Beignets

Pairing side dishes with your New Orleans-style beignets can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some great options that complement their sweetness beautifully.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the rich flavor of beignets.
2. Savory Grits: Creamy grits seasoned with cheese or herbs offer a hearty side that balances out the sweetness of the pastries.
3. Eggs Benedict: The rich hollandaise sauce over poached eggs pairs well, making it an excellent brunch option alongside beignets.
4. Bacon or Sausage: The salty crunch of crispy bacon or sausage links adds depth and flavor that harmonizes nicely with sweet treats.
5. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns serve as a comforting side dish that complements the fluffiness of beignets.
6. Cinnamon Rolls: For those who love breakfast sweets, cinnamon rolls can make for an indulgent brunch experience when served together.
7. Pancakes: Fluffy pancakes topped with syrup can create a sweet breakfast feast when combined with your beignets.
8. Yogurt Parfait: Layers of yogurt, granola, and berries provide a healthier option that contrasts nicely with fried pastries while adding freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making New Orleans-style beignets can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect Yeast Activation: Ensuring your yeast is active is crucial. If the mixture doesn’t foam after 15 minutes, the yeast may be dead. Always check the expiration date before use.
• Too Much Flour: Adding excess flour can lead to dense beignets. Start with less and gradually add more if necessary. The dough should remain sticky but workable.
• Inadequate Rising Time: Rushing the rising process can result in flat beignets. Allow adequate time for the dough to double in size; patience is key for fluffy results.
• Oil Temperature Issues: Frying at incorrect temperatures can cause soggy or burnt beignets. Use a thermometer to maintain oil at 370ºF for perfect frying.
• Overcrowding the Fryer: Frying too many beignets at once can lower the oil’s temperature, leading to uneven cooking. Fry in small batches for the best texture and flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover New Orleans-style beignets in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 2 days in the fridge.

Freezing New Orleans-Style Beignets

• Freeze beignets in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating New Orleans-Style Beignets

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Place beignets on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual pieces for about 10-15 seconds, but avoid overheating as it can make them chewy.
• Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat and warm each side of the beignet for about 1 minute until crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making New Orleans-style beignets, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

What are New Orleans-Style Beignets?

New Orleans-style beignets are deep-fried pastries that are light, fluffy, and generously dusted with powdered sugar, often served as breakfast or dessert.

Can I use different types of flour?

Yes, while all-purpose flour is ideal, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends if needed. Just ensure you follow any specific guidelines for gluten-free baking.

How do I know when my beignets are done frying?

Beignets should turn golden brown on both sides during frying. Use a thermometer to check that your oil is at the correct temperature to achieve this color evenly.

Can I make New Orleans-Style Beignets ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before frying.

Final Thoughts

These New Orleans-style beignets offer a delightful treat that brings comfort and joy with every bite. Their fluffy texture and sweet dusting of powdered sugar make them perfect for breakfast or as a special snack. Feel free to customize your beignets by adding flavors like vanilla or chocolate chips for an extra twist!