Vanilla French Beignets Recipe

Introduction

Vanilla French beignets are light, airy fried dough treats dusted with sugar and infused with a hint of vanilla. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, they bring a taste of classic French cafés right to your kitchen.

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
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and vanilla extract. Add the yeast mixture and stir until a soft dough forms.
3. Step 3: Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
4. Step 4: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).
5. Step 5: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into squares or desired shapes.
6. Step 6: Fry the dough pieces in batches, turning as needed, until puffed and golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Step 7: Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
• Use a candy thermometer to maintain the oil temperature to avoid greasy beignets.
• Try filling the beignets with fruit jam or chocolate after frying for a delicious surprise.

Storage

Store 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. Avoid refrigerating to prevent sogginess.

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. Allow it to come to room temperature and rise before frying.

What if I don’t have active dry yeast?

You can use instant yeast in the same quantity; just mix it directly into the flour without proofing.

Vanilla French Beignets Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 101 reviews

Classic Vanilla French Beignets are light, airy fried dough pastries with a subtle vanilla flavor, dusted generously with powdered sugar. Perfect as a sweet treat for breakfast or dessert, these beignets are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

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

Ingredients

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Dough

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

For Frying

• Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2-3 cups)

For Topping

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy to activate the yeast.
2. Prepare Dough: In a large mixing bowl, add the flour. Pour in the activated yeast mixture and vanilla extract. Stir with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead Dough: Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
4. Let Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
5. Shape Beignets: Once risen, punch down the dough gently and roll it out to about 1/4 inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut into 2-3 inch squares using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
6. Heat Oil: In a deep heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor temperature for even frying.
7. Fry Beignets: Carefully add a few dough pieces into the hot oil. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes per side or until puffed and golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to turn the beignets and remove them when done.
8. Drain and Cool: Place fried beignets on paper towels to remove excess oil.
9. Dust with Sugar: Generously dust the beignets with powdered sugar while still warm. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

• Maintain oil temperature between 350-365°F for optimal puffing and crispiness.
• Do not overcrowd the frying pot to ensure even cooking.
• Use vanilla bean paste or extract for a richer vanilla flavor.
• Beignets are best enjoyed fresh; they tend to lose crispness when cooled.
• For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend formulated for baking.

Keywords: Vanilla beignets, French beignets, fried dough pastry, powdered sugar beignets, classic French dessert