Vanilla French Beignets
Bring the charm of Paris to your kitchen with these Vanilla French Beignets—light, airy, and dusted with powdered sugar! This easy beignet recipe delivers golden, pillowy pastries infused with warm vanilla flavor. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or brunch, these French beignets are a must-try if you love classic French dessert recipes. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee, serve at gatherings, or customize them with your favorite toppings. Simple to make, yet impressive and delicious—these beignets are sweet perfection in every bite!
Ingredients
For the Beignet Dough:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk around 110°F/43°C
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 tsp salt
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Vanilla Sugar Coating:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
- Chocolate sauce
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, vanilla, and butter. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead: Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 5-8 minutes until smooth.
- First Rise: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Shape the Beignets
- Roll out the dough to 1/2-inch thickness.
- Cut into 2-3 inch squares or triangles for a classic look.
Fry the Beignets
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the beignets in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden.
- Drain on paper towels.
Coat & Serve
- Mix powdered sugar and vanilla extract in a shallow bowl.
- While still warm, roll the beignets in the sugar mixture.
- Serve immediately with your favorite toppings or dips.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Refrigerate the dough after rising for up to 24 hours.
- Freeze: Freeze cut dough before frying for up to 1 month.
- Add Spice: Mix cinnamon or nutmeg into the powdered sugar for extra flavor.