Go Back
Freshly made easy vanilla beignets dusted with powdered sugar

Easy Vanilla French Beignets

These delightful Easy Vanilla French Beignets are light, fluffy deep-fried pastries with a hint of vanilla, traditionally dusted with powdered sugar and perfect for a sweet treat or breakfast.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 8 beignets
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: French
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Beignet Dough
  • 3 cups All-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup Granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons Active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 cup Warm milk
  • 2 Large eggs
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter melted
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
For Frying
  • 4-6 cups Vegetable oil
For Serving
  • 1 cup Powdered sugar

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Rolling pin
  • Sharp knife or pizza cutter
  • Deep pot or Dutch oven
  • Deep-fry thermometer
  • Slotted spoon or spider
  • Wire rack
  • Paper Towels
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Make the Dough
  1. Activate the yeast by combining warm milk, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and yeast in a small bowl, then let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, and salt; then add the yeast mixture, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Fry the Beignets
  1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C); punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness.
  2. Cut the dough into 2-inch squares, then carefully drop a few beignets into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot.
  3. Fry the beignets for 1-2 minutes per side until they are puffed and golden brown, then remove them with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain.
Serve
  1. While the beignets are still warm, generously dust them with powdered sugar and serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, maintain a consistent oil temperature while frying to ensure even cooking and a golden-brown exterior. Serve the beignets warm for the ultimate fresh taste and texture.