Vanilla French Beignets Recipe

Introduction

Vanilla French Beignets are a delightful treat featuring light, fluffy dough fried to golden perfection and dusted with sweet sugar. This simple recipe highlights the comforting flavors of vanilla and makes an irresistible snack or dessert.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
• 3/4 cup warm milk
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until frothy.
2. Step 2: Add flour and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture and mix until a smooth dough forms. Cover and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
3. Step 3: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C).
4. Step 4: Pinch off small pieces of dough and carefully drop them into the hot oil. Fry until puffed and golden brown, about 2 to 3 minutes per side.
5. Step 5: Remove beignets with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. While still warm, dust generously with sugar before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For an extra flavor boost, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
• Use powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar for a finer coating.
• Serve with fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a decadent touch.

Storage

Store leftover beignets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated briefly in a warm oven to restore crispness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature and rise before frying.

What oil is best for frying beignets?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil to ensure the beignets fry evenly without burning.

Vanilla French Beignets Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 94 reviews

Vanilla French Beignets are a classic French-inspired treat featuring pillowy deep-fried dough infused with a subtle vanilla flavor, dusted generously with powdered sugar for a sweet finish. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, these golden airy pastries offer a delightful combination of crisp exterior and soft, fluffy interior.

• Author: Cleo
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Yield: About 12 beignets 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: French

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Beignet Dough

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk with granulated sugar and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
2. Make Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour. Add the activated yeast mixture and vanilla extract, mixing to form a soft dough. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Let Dough Rise: Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Shape Beignets: Once risen, turn the dough onto a floured surface. Roll it out to roughly 1/4 inch thickness. Cut the dough into squares or rectangles of your preferred size.
5. Heat Oil: In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain consistent temperature for even frying.
6. Fry Beignets: Carefully drop dough pieces into the hot oil, a few at a time to avoid overcrowding. Fry until puffed and golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side, turning once to ensure even cooking.
7. Drain and Dust: Using a slotted spoon, remove beignets from oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Immediately dust generously with powdered sugar while still warm.
8. Serve: Serve warm and enjoy your homemade vanilla French beignets with extra powdered sugar or accompanied by a coffee or hot chocolate.

Notes

• Maintain oil temperature to prevent greasy or undercooked beignets.
• Serve immediately for best texture; beignets tend to lose crispness as they cool.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond or oat milk and ensure oil is neutral in flavor.
• If dough is sticky, lightly flour your hands and surfaces while handling.

Keywords: Vanilla Beignets, French Beignets, Fried Dough Pastry, Powdered Sugar Beignets, Classic Dessert