Description
Classic New Orleans Beignets are light, airy, and perfectly fried square doughnuts generously dusted with powdered sugar. This traditional recipe features a simple yeast-free dough that fries up golden and crispy on the outside while staying soft and pillowy inside, making for a perfect treat to enjoy with coffee or as a sweet snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour
- 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar
- 2 teaspoons Baking Powder
- ½ teaspoon Salt
Wet Ingredients
- ¾ cup Whole Milk
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
For Frying and Serving
- 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 as desired)
Instructions
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and uniform.
- Combine and Form Dough: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Lightly knead the dough on a floured surface 3-4 times to bring it together, then roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thickness.
- Cut Dough Squares: Using a knife or pizza cutter, cut the rolled dough into 2-inch squares to prepare for frying.
- Heat Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 360°F (182°C). It’s important the temperature is consistent to achieve the perfect crispiness without absorbing excess oil.
- Fry Beignets: Fry the dough squares in batches, turning them to ensure they are golden brown on each side. This process takes about 1-2 minutes per batch.
- Drain and Dust: Remove the fried beignets using a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels. While still warm, dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Maintain oil temperature at 360°F for optimal frying; too hot will burn the beignets, too cool will make them greasy.
- Do not overmix the dough to ensure light and tender beignets.
- Serve beignets immediately after frying for the best texture and flavor.
- For an extra authentic touch, serve with café au lait or coffee.
- Use fresh powdered sugar for dusting to avoid clumps.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Creole, New Orleans
