Description
This Best Vanilla French Beignets recipe features light and fluffy deep-fried dough squares infused with pure vanilla. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these classic French treats are dusted generously with powdered sugar, perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack alongside coffee or hot chocolate.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
For Frying
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola), about 2 inches deep
For Serving
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. In a separate bowl, beat together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined to form a soft dough, being careful not to overmix.
- Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step helps the dough firm up and makes it easier to roll and cut.
- Heat the Oil: Pour about 2 inches of vegetable or canola oil into a deep skillet or frying pan and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain this temperature for optimal frying results.
- Shape the Beignets: Lightly flour a clean work surface and roll out the chilled dough to about 1/2 inch thickness. Cut the dough into squares of approximately 2 to 3 inches each using a knife or a pizza cutter.
- Fry the Beignets: Carefully place a few dough squares into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry each batch for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until the beignets puff up and turn a golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: While still warm, generously dust the beignets with powdered sugar. The warm dough helps the sugar adhere beautifully, creating the classic appearance and flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the beignets warm, ideally alongside a cup of coffee, café au lait, or hot chocolate. Enjoy as a delightful breakfast treat or a sweet snack any time of day.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftover beignets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to restore crispness.
- Serving Suggestions: These beignets pair wonderfully with café au lait, fruit compote, or ice cream for an indulgent twist.
- Substitutions: For a gluten-free option, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. To make dairy-free, substitute whole milk with almond or coconut milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative.
