Vanilla French Beignets

These Vanilla French Beignets are light, airy, and irresistibly delicious, with a delicate hint of vanilla and a golden, crispy exterior. Dusted with powdered sugar, they are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert! Serve them with coffee, hot chocolate, or fruit preserves for an authentic French café experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic French treat – Just like the beignets from New Orleans or Paris!
• Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside – A perfectly fluffy pastry.
• Delicate vanilla flavor – Sweet, warm, and aromatic.
• Easy to make – Simple dough, deep-fried to perfection.
• Customizable – Fill with cream, Nutella, or jam!

Ingredients

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

• 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
• ½ cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• ¾ cup whole milk, warmed
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Optional Fillings & Toppings:

• Nutella or jam (for a stuffed beignet)
• Cinnamon sugar (for a warm spice touch)
• Honey or caramel drizzle

Directions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and 1 tbsp sugar.
2. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, whisk eggs, warm milk, melted butter, vanilla, and remaining sugar.
2. Add yeast mixture and stir to combine.
3. Gradually mix in flour and salt, kneading until smooth and elastic.
4. Cover and let rise for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Roll & Cut

1. Roll out dough on a floured surface to ¼-inch thickness.
2. Cut into 2-inch squares or circles.

Step 4: Fry the Beignets

1. Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or large pot.
2. Fry beignets in batches, flipping once, until golden brown (1-2 minutes per side).
3. Drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Dust & Serve

1. Generously dust with powdered sugar.
2. Serve warm with coffee, hot chocolate, or fruit preserves.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 20-24 beignets
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Rise Time: 1-2 hours
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Stuffed Vanilla Beignets – Fill with pastry cream, Nutella, or fruit jam.
• Chocolate Drizzle Beignets – Drizzle with melted dark chocolate.
• Baked Beignets – Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes instead of frying.
• Gluten-Free Beignets – Use gluten-free all-purpose flour.

Storage & Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months and reheat before serving.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes or microwave for 10 seconds.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! Refrigerate overnight and fry fresh in the morning.

Why aren’t my beignets fluffy?

The dough may not have risen long enough—make sure it doubles in size.

What oil is best for frying?

Use vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for the best results.

How do I prevent greasy beignets?

Make sure the oil is hot enough (350°F) before frying.

Can I make these without yeast?

Yes! Use baking powder instead for a quicker version, but the texture will be different.

How do I keep beignets warm for serving?

Place in a 200°F oven until ready to serve.

What’s the best way to dust with powdered sugar?

Use a fine-mesh sieve or sifter for an even dusting.

Can I use a stand mixer?

Yes! Use a dough hook to knead for 5 minutes.

How do I know when the dough is ready to fry?

It should be soft but not sticky and have doubled in size.

Can I add different flavors?

Yes! Try adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or almond extract.

Conclusion

These Vanilla French Beignets are light, airy, and absolutely delicious, making them perfect for any occasion! Whether served with coffee, dipped in chocolate, or stuffed with cream, they’re a must-try classic. Try them today and bring a little French café magic to your kitchen!

Print