Vanilla French Beignets Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
Find it online: https://cookedbycleo.com/vanilla-french-beignets-recipe/
