Description
Golden, fluffy, and irresistibly aromatic, Vanilla French Beignets are a delicious treat that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Dusted with powdered sugar, they’re perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast or 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ¾ cup warm milk
- 1 large egg
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast (or baking powder). In a separate bowl, mix the warm milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring to form a soft dough. - Knead and Rest
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 1 hour (if using yeast) or rest for 10 minutes (if using baking powder). - Shape the Beignets
Roll out the dough to about ½ inch thickness and cut into squares or rectangles. Place the pieces on a floured surface and cover with a towel while you heat the oil. - Fry to Perfection
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the dough pieces in small batches, turning them occasionally, until golden brown on all sides (about 2-3 minutes per side). - Cool and Dust
Remove the beignets with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil. While still warm, generously dust them with powdered sugar.
Notes
- Oil Temperature is Key: Maintaining an oil temperature of around 350°F (175°C) is crucial for perfectly cooked beignets. Too hot, and they’ll burn on the outside while staying raw inside. Too cool, and they’ll absorb excess oil, becoming greasy.
- Resting Time Matters: If using yeast, ensure the dough has sufficient time to rise (about 1 hour) to achieve that airy, fluffy texture. Rushed dough can result in denser beignets. For baking powder, a brief 10-minute rest helps the dough relax for easier rolling.
- Serve Immediately: Beignets are best enjoyed fresh and warm. While they can be reheated, their texture and flavor shine brightest right after frying and dusting with powdered sugar.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 20 min