Description
Indulge in the decadent delight of Vanilla French Beignets – light and airy fried dough dusted with sweet powdered sugar. These homemade treats will transport you to the streets of New Orleans with their rich vanilla flavor and irresistible texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough:
- 1/2 cup warm water (110°F)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
Other:
- vegetable oil (for frying)
- powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Making the Dough: In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Stir in the sugar, eggs, milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Gradually mix in the flour until a soft, sticky dough forms. Knead for 5–6 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Rising: Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shaping: Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll to about 1/4-inch thickness and cut into 2-inch squares using a knife or pastry cutter. Place on a parchment-lined tray, cover loosely, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Frying: Heat 2–3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry beignets in batches for 1–2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and puffed. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serving: While still warm, generously dust with powdered sugar. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For added vanilla flavor, scrape in the seeds of a vanilla bean or add a touch of vanilla bean paste.
- Beignets are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated briefly in the oven.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus rising time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 beignet
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
