Vanilla French Beignets: A Delicious Recipe for Perfectly Fluffy Treats

Vanilla French Beignets are a delightful treat that transports you straight to the charming streets of New Orleans with every bite. These pillowy, deep-fried pastries, dusted with powdered sugar, have a rich history rooted in French culinary tradition, making them a beloved staple in both French and Creole cultures. I remember the first time I tasted a beignet; the warm, fluffy texture combined with the sweet, aromatic essence of vanilla was simply irresistible. It’s no wonder that people adore this dish! Not only are they incredibly delicious, but they are also surprisingly easy to make at home, allowing you to enjoy a taste of France right in your kitchen. Whether served as a breakfast delight or a decadent dessert, Vanilla French Beignets are sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Preparing the Dough

Let’s get started on making these delicious vanilla French beignets! First, we need to prepare the dough. Follow these steps:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well blended. This will ensure that the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
2. In a separate bowl, crack the two large eggs and whisk them lightly. Then, add the whole milk and pure vanilla extract to the eggs. Whisk these wet ingredients together until they are fully combined.
3. Next, pour the melted unsalted butter into the wet mixture and whisk again until everything is well incorporated. The melted butter adds richness to our beignets, making them extra delicious!
4. Now, it’s time to combine the wet and dry ingredients. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour the wet mixture into it. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
5. Once the dough comes together, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for about 30 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, which will result in a softer texture for our beignets.

Preparing for Frying

While the dough is resting, we can prepare for frying. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Choose a large, deep pot or a deep fryer for frying the beignets. Fill it with vegetable oil to a depth of about 2-3 inches. Make sure to leave enough space at the top to prevent any overflow when the beignets are added.
2. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can use a candy thermometer to check the temperature. If you don’t have one, you can drop a small piece of dough into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
3. While the oil is heating, prepare a plate lined with paper towels to drain the beignets after frying. This will help absorb any excess oil and keep them from becoming greasy.

Frying the Beignets

Now comes the fun part—frying the beignets! Follow these steps carefully:

1. Once the dough has rested, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently roll it out to about 1/2 inch thick. You can use a rolling pin for this, but be careful not to overwork the dough.
2. Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into squares or rectangles, about 2-3 inches in size. You can also use a round cutter if you prefer round beignets.
3. Carefully drop a few pieces of dough into the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd the pot. Fry them in batches, allowing enough space for them to puff up and float.
4. Fry the beignets for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to gently flip them halfway through the cooking time.
5. Once they are golden brown, remove the beignets from the oil and place them on the prepared plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
6. Repeat the frying process with the remaining dough, ensuring the oil temperature remains consistent. If the oil gets too hot, lower the heat slightly.

Dust

Conclusion:

In summary, these Vanilla French Beignets are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweetness and texture. The light, airy dough, combined with the rich vanilla flavor, creates a heavenly experience that will have you coming back for more. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the fryer, dusted with powdered sugar, or drizzled with a warm chocolate sauce, these beignets are versatile enough to suit any palate. For a fun twist, consider adding a hint of cinnamon to the sugar coating or experimenting with different fillings like fruit preserves or chocolate ganache. You could even try serving them alongside a rich coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special dessert. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your experience with friends and family. I would love to hear how your Vanilla French Beignets turn out and any creative variations you come up with. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the magic of these beignets fill your kitchen with warmth and joy. Happy cooking! Print