Vanilla French Beignets Recipe

Introduction

Vanilla French Beignets are light, airy pastries that are perfect for a sweet treat any time of day. These golden-fried dough pieces are infused with vanilla and dusted with sugar for a classic, irresistible flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 tsp)
• 3/4 cup warm milk
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Additional sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast is foamy.
2. Step 2: Add the flour and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture, stirring until a smooth dough forms.
3. Step 3: Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, until it has doubled in size.
4. Step 4: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
5. Step 5: Pinch off small pieces of dough and carefully drop them into the hot oil. Fry until puffed and golden, about 2-3 minutes, turning as needed.
6. Step 6: Remove beignets with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
7. Step 7: While still warm, dust generously with sugar and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For extra fluffy beignets, be sure your yeast is active and let the dough rise fully before frying.
• Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a spice twist.
• If you prefer, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate sauce instead of granulated sugar.

Storage

Beignets are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in a warm oven to regain their crispiness. Avoid refrigerating as it can dry them out.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before frying.

What oil is best for frying beignets?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil, to achieve the best frying results.

Vanilla French Beignets Recipe

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Vanilla French Beignets are light, airy fried pastries traditionally flavored with vanilla and dusted with powdered sugar. These treats are crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, perfect for a sweet breakfast or dessert.

• Author: Elias
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 beignets 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: French

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dough Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
• 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For Frying

• Vegetable oil (for deep frying)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
2. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until a smooth, slightly sticky dough forms. Knead gently for about 5 minutes by hand or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook.
3. Let Dough Rise: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
4. Shape the Beignets: Turn the risen dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut the dough into 2 to 3-inch squares or rectangles using a knife or pizza cutter.
5. Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep fryer or heavy pot to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C), using a thermometer to maintain the temperature.
6. Fry the Beignets: Fry the dough pieces in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until puffed and golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to turn and remove them safely.
7. Drain and Dust: Place the fried beignets on paper towels to drain excess oil. While still warm, dust generously with powdered sugar.
8. Serve: Serve the beignets fresh and warm for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy with coffee or your favorite hot beverage.

Notes

• Ensure the oil temperature remains steady at 350°F to avoid greasy or undercooked beignets.
• Do not overcrowd the frying pot to maintain consistent heat and avoid sticking.
• You can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra flavor if desired.
• For a gluten-free variation, substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but texture may vary.
• Beignets are best enjoyed fresh; leftovers can be reheated briefly in a warm oven to restore crispness.

Keywords: beignets, vanilla beignets, french dessert, fried pastry, sweet treat, powdered sugar, breakfast pastry