Classic beignets are light, fluffy, and perfectly golden pastries generously dusted with powdered sugar. A staple of New Orleans cuisine, these deep-fried treats are best enjoyed fresh and warm, paired with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this recipe delivers authentic beignets that rival those from the famous Café du Monde.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Taste – These beignets have the classic flavor and texture found in New Orleans’ most famous cafes.
- Simple Ingredients – Made with pantry staples like flour, sugar, and yeast, these beignets are easy to prepare at home.
- Perfectly Fluffy – Light and airy on the inside, crisp on the outside, and coated in a generous layer of powdered sugar.
- Great for Any Occasion – Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack, beignets are always a treat.
- Fun to Make – Frying up a batch and watching them puff up is an enjoyable kitchen experience.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- All-purpose flour
- Granulated sugar
- Active dry yeast
- Warm water
- Eggs
- Whole milk
- Unsalted butter
- Salt
- Powdered sugar
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Directions
- Activate the Yeast – In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Prepare the Dough – In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and melted butter. Gradually add the yeast mixture and wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead and Rest – Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1–2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Roll and Cut – Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Cut into squares or rectangles.
- Heat the Oil – In a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Beignets – Carefully drop a few dough squares into the hot oil, frying for about 1–2 minutes per side or until golden brown. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar – Generously sprinkle powdered sugar over the warm beignets before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: About 24 beignets
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Resting Time: 1–2 hours
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2.5 hours
Variations
- Chocolate-Filled Beignets – Add a small piece of chocolate in the center before sealing and frying.
- Cinnamon Sugar Beignets – Instead of powdered sugar, coat them in a cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Savory Beignets – Reduce sugar and add shredded cheese or herbs for a unique twist.
- Vegan Beignets – Substitute milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.
- Gluten-Free Beignets – Use a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover beignets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: Warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 10–15 seconds.
- Freezing: Freeze beignets in a single layer, then transfer them to a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in an oven.
FAQs
How do I get my beignets to puff up properly?
Make sure your oil is at the correct temperature (around 350°F) and that your dough has properly risen.
Can I make beignets without yeast?
Yes, but they will have a different texture. A baking powder-based dough will create more of a biscuit-like result.
Why are my beignets dense and not airy?
This can happen if the dough is over-kneaded, under-proofed, or if the oil temperature is too low.
Can I use a deep fryer instead of a pot?
Yes, a deep fryer will maintain a consistent temperature, which is ideal for frying beignets.
What type of oil is best for frying beignets?
Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil work best due to their high smoke points.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight.
Do I have to use powdered sugar?
Powdered sugar is traditional, but you can also coat them with cinnamon sugar or drizzle them with honey.
Are beignets the same as donuts?
They are similar, but beignets do not have a hole in the center and typically have a lighter, airier texture.
Can I bake beignets instead of frying them?
Baking will change the texture, but you can try baking them at 375°F (190°C) for about 12–15 minutes.
What’s the best way to serve beignets?
They are best served warm with a generous dusting of powdered sugar and a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.
Conclusion
Classic beignets with powdered sugar are a delightful treat that brings the flavors of New Orleans to your kitchen. With their crispy exterior, pillowy-soft interior, and sweet dusting of sugar, they are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack. Whether you enjoy them traditionally or experiment with different flavors, this recipe is sure to be a favorite. Try making a batch today and experience the magic of homemade beignets!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 beignet 1x
- Category: 12 beignet
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: French, New Orleans
Description
These Classic Beignets are deep-fried golden pastries, dusted with powdered sugar, and served warm. A beloved New Orleans-style treat!
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- Oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast in warm milk and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Mix with flour, sugar, egg, and butter. Knead until smooth.
- Let rise for 1 hour, then roll out and cut into squares.
- Heat oil and fry until golden brown. Drain and dust with powdered sug
Notes
- Serve warm for the best texture.
- Let the dough rise properly for a light and airy texture.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *