Vanilla French Beignets Recipe

 

Vanilla French Beignets are light, airy, deep-fried pastries with a soft, pillowy inside and a delicate, crisp exterior. Infused with warm vanilla flavor and generously dusted with powdered sugar, these classic treats are perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or any time you want a sweet, nostalgic indulgence.

 Time & Yield

• Yield: About 12–15 beignets (depending on size)

• Prep Time: ~30 minutes

• Cook Time: ~15 minutes (plus rising time)

• Total Time: ~45–60 minutes (including dough rise)

 Ingredients

🥐 Dough

• Warm milk (about 1 cup)

• Active dry yeast (about 2¼ teaspoons)

• Granulated sugar (¼ cup)

• 1 large egg

• Vanilla extract (1–2 teaspoons)

• Salt (½ teaspoon)

• Unsalted butter (¼ cup, melted)

• All-purpose flour (about 3½–4 cups)

🍳 For Frying

• Vegetable oil (enough for deep frying)

🍰 Topping

• Powdered sugar (generously for dusting)

 Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast
   Combine warm milk, yeast, and a little sugar. Let sit about 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. Make the Dough
   Whisk in the remaining sugar, egg, vanilla, salt, and melted butter. Gradually add flour and mix until a soft dough forms.

3. Knead
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5–7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

4. Proof the Dough
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1–1½ hours).

5. Shape
   Punch down the dough and roll it out to about ¼-inch thickness. Cut into 2–3-inch squares or rectangles.

6. Heat the Oil
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to about 350°F (175°C).

7. Fry
   Fry the dough pieces in batches for about 1–2 minutes per side until golden and puffed.

8. Drain
   Remove the beignets and drain them on paper towels.

9. Dust with Sugar
   While still warm, dust generously with powdered sugar so it sticks well.

10. Serve
    Enjoy warm, ideally with coffee, hot chocolate, or your favorite dip.

 Serving Suggestions

Serve warm vanilla beignets with:

• A cup of coffee or hot chocolate

• Fresh fruit or fruit compote

• Whipped cream or chocolate sauce for dipping

They’re perfect for brunch, dessert, or a cozy breakfast treat.

 Tips & Variations

• Oil Temperature: Keep the oil around 350°F so the beignets cook evenly without absorbing excess oil.

• Sugar Coating: Dust the sugar while the beignets are hot to help it stick.

• Don’t Overcrowd: Fry in small batches so they puff properly.

• Flavor Variations: Add cinnamon or citrus zest to the dough for extra aroma.

 Estimated Nutrition (per beignet)

• Calories: ~250 kcal

• Protein: ~4 g

• Fat: ~15 g

• Carbohydrates: ~25 g
  (Values vary based on size and sugar amount.)

 Conclusion

Vanilla French Beignets are a delightful homemade pastry with a soft, airy interior and a crisp, golden exterior. The warm vanilla notes and generous powdered sugar topping make every bite irresistible — perfect for treating yourself or impressing guests at brunch or dessert time.