Why You’ll Love Classic French Beignets Recipe
These beignets are the epitome of indulgence: crisp on the outside, soft and fluffy inside, and coated in a cloud of powdered sugar. Unlike doughnuts, they’re less sweet, making them a versatile pastry that pairs beautifully with coffee, hot chocolate, or fruit preserves. Whether you’re looking for a special weekend breakfast, a brunch centerpiece, or a nostalgic French-inspired dessert, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg
1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Vegetable oil, for frying
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Directions
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In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
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Add sugar, salt, vanilla extract, egg, and warm milk to the yeast mixture. Stir until combined.
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Gradually mix in the flour, 1 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
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Add softened butter and knead the dough (by hand or with a stand mixer) for about 5–7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
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Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
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Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into 2 to 3-inch squares using a knife or pizza cutter.
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Heat 2–3 inches of oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry beignets in batches, 1–2 minutes per side, until puffed and golden.
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Use a slotted spoon to transfer beignets to a paper towel-lined plate.
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Dust generously with powdered sugar and serve warm.
Servings and timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Servings: About 20 beignets
Calories: ~210 per serving
Variations
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Cinnamon sugar twist: Instead of powdered sugar, toss warm beignets in a mix of cinnamon and granulated sugar.
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Filled beignets: Pipe pastry cream, Nutella, or jam into the center after frying.
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Savory beignets: Skip the sugar and vanilla, then serve with cheese or herbs for a savory twist.
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Gluten-free option: Substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend designed for yeast breads.
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Chocolate drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top before serving for extra indulgence.
Storage/Reheating
Beignets are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes until slightly crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them chewy. For longer storage, freeze fried and cooled beignets for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven straight from the freezer.
FAQs
What is the difference between beignets and doughnuts?
Beignets are typically square, less sweet, and dusted with powdered sugar, while doughnuts are often round, sweeter, and glazed or filled.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise. Simply let it come to room temperature and continue with rolling and frying the next day.
Why didn’t my beignets puff up?
This could be due to oil not being hot enough or dough that didn’t rise properly. Make sure the oil reaches 350°F and the dough has doubled in size before frying.
Can I bake beignets instead of frying?
Traditional beignets are fried, but you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 12–15 minutes. They won’t be quite the same, but still delicious.
What oil is best for frying beignets?
Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil are best since they have high smoke points and don’t add flavor.
How do I know when the oil is ready for frying?
Use a thermometer to check for 350°F. Alternatively, drop a small piece of dough in—if it sizzles and floats, the oil is ready.
Can I freeze beignet dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough after shaping. Freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw and let rise again before frying.
How do I keep beignets warm for serving?
Place fried beignets on a baking sheet in a 200°F (93°C) oven to keep them warm while you finish frying the batch.
Are beignets always square?
Traditionally, New Orleans–style beignets are square, but in France, shapes can vary, including circles and rectangles.
Can I make mini beignets?
Absolutely! Just cut smaller pieces of dough and reduce frying time slightly. Mini beignets are perfect for parties or sharing.
Conclusion
Classic French beignets are a timeless treat that combines simplicity with pure indulgence. With their airy texture and generous dusting of powdered sugar, they bring café-style elegance right to your table. Whether enjoyed fresh for breakfast, served at brunch, or offered as a sweet ending to a meal, these beignets are guaranteed to impress and satisfy every sweet tooth.
