How to Make Beignets

If you’ve ever wandered through the streets of New Orleans, the sweet aroma of freshly fried beignets wafting through the air is an experience that lingers in your memory. These delightful pillows of dough, dusted with powdered sugar, are not just a treat; they are a tradition, a celebration, and the perfect companion to a cup of coffee. Today, I’ll guide you through the delightful process of how to make beignets right in your own kitchen. Get ready to indulge in the fluffy, sugary goodness that will transport you straight to the French Quarter!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

– Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making this recipe accessible for everyone.
– Versatile Flavor: You can easily customize the dough with spices or fillings to make it uniquely yours.
– Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a festive gathering, beignets are sure to impress.
– Fried to Perfection: The crispy exterior and soft interior create a delightful texture that’s hard to resist.

Ingredient List

• 1 cup warm water (between 110 and 115 degrees F)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk at room temperature, slightly beaten
• 2/3 cup evaporated milk at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2-1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 670 grams bread flour (SEE NOTES!)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• Vegetable, canola, or cottonseed oil for frying
• 2 cups powdered sugar

Setup & Equipment

• Mixing Bowls: For combining your ingredients.
• Whisk: To blend your wet ingredients smoothly.
• Rolling Pin: For flattening the dough.
• Fry Thermometer: To ensure your oil is at the right temperature.
• Slotted Spoon: For removing the beignets from the fryer.
• Cooling Rack: Helps keep beignets crispy after frying.

Cooking How to Make Beignets: The Process

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy. This step is crucial as it allows the yeast to activate, which helps the dough rise.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add the slightly beaten egg, egg yolk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk together until fully combined.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the bread flour, salt, and any optional spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough begins to form.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, feel free to add a little more flour as needed.

Step 5: Let it Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.

Step 6: Roll Out the Dough

After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into squares or rectangles.

Step 7: Heat the Oil

In a deep skillet or pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to check the temperature, as this ensures your beignets will fry perfectly!

Step 8: Fry the Beignets

Carefully drop a few pieces of dough into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and transfer to a cooling rack lined with paper towels.

Step 9: Dust with Powdered Sugar

While the beignets are still warm, generously dust them with powdered sugar. This step is what makes them irresistibly sweet and beautiful!

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your beignets warm alongside a cup of coffee or your favorite beverage. They are best enjoyed fresh, but trust me, you might find them hard to resist even after they cool down!

Seasonal Spins

• Pumpkin Spice Beignets: Add pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice for a fall-inspired treat.
• Chocolate-Covered Beignets: Dip in melted chocolate instead of dusting with powdered sugar.
• Lemon Zest Beignets: Incorporate lemon zest into the dough for a refreshing twist.
• Maple Glazed Beignets: Drizzle with a maple syrup glaze for a sweet breakfast option.

Chef’s Rationale

Making beignets from scratch is a rewarding experience that not only fills your kitchen with delightful aromas but also brings a piece of New Orleans culture into your home. The combination of activated yeast, rich milk, and a touch of vanilla creates a dough that is both fluffy and flavorful. The frying process seals in that warmth, ensuring every bite is a little piece of heaven. Plus, the customization options allow you to make them your own, whether you prefer classic powdered sugar or seasonal flavors.

Best Ways to Store

Beignets are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, simply pop them in a warm oven for a few minutes to restore their crispy texture. Avoid refrigerating, as this can make them chewy rather than fluffy.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but bread flour gives beignets a chewier texture due to its higher protein content. If you use all-purpose flour, the texture will still be delicious, just slightly different.

What can I substitute for evaporated milk?

You can substitute evaporated milk with whole milk or a non-dairy milk option. To mimic the richness of evaporated milk, consider using coconut cream or almond milk with a bit of added sugar.

How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?

Using a thermometer is the best way to check the temperature of the oil. It should be around 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can drop a small piece of dough into the oil; if it bubbles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then refrigerate it overnight. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before rolling and frying the beignets.

Quick Weeknight Wins

• Quick Banana Bread: A moist, flavorful way to use ripe bananas.
• Easy Chicken Stir Fry: A speedy dinner option with lots of veggies.
• 30-Minute Taco Salad: A delicious, customizable meal in under half an hour.

In Closing

Making beignets is an adventure that brings joy and warmth to your kitchen. With simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create these delightful treats that are perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you stick to the classic powdered sugar or try one of the seasonal spins, your beignets are sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some magic happen! Enjoy the process, savor each bite, and let the sweet indulgence of beignets brighten your day.