Classic New Orleans Beignets
Beignets are a delightful treat that embodies the spirit of New Orleans. With their pillowy softness and sugary sweetness, these square pastries are a beloved staple, often associated with vibrant café mornings in the French Quarter. Whether you’re hosting a cozy brunch, celebrating Mardi Gras, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, beignets add a touch of joy and a hint of Southern charm to any occasion. Their simplicity and rich flavor will surely keep everyone coming back for seconds—which is exactly why readers will fall in love with making these at home!
Imagine gathering with family and friends, sharing warm beignets dusted with powdered sugar, as laughter fills the air. Each bite is a delightful experience that transports you to the streets of New Orleans. Whether enjoyed alongside a steaming cup of coffee or as a sweet surprise after dinner, these beignets will leave a lasting impression. Let’s dive into this classic recipe!
This is what the finished dish looks like when perfectly baked.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour
- 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar
- 2 teaspoons Baking Powder
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- ¾ cup Whole Milk
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- Vegetable Oil – for deep frying (enough to fill your pot with about 2–3 inches of oil)
- Powdered Sugar – for generous dusting (about ½ to 1 cup, or just go wild)
Here are your main ingredients, ready for a delightful transformation!
Directions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently just until combined.
- Lightly knead the dough on a floured surface 3-4 times to bring it together, then roll it out to ¼ inch thick. Cut the dough into 2-inch squares.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 360°F (182°C).
- Fry the beignet squares in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Cook until golden brown on each side, about 1-2 minutes.
- Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil and dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Ingredient substitutions: You can use almond milk or coconut milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free option.
- Optional variations: For a fun twist, you can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough, or fill the beignets with chocolate or fruit preserves before frying.
- Storage or reheating tips: Beignets are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in a warm oven for a few minutes to refresh their texture.
Recipe Information
- Prep time: 30 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
- Difficulty level: Easy
