Classic French Donuts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’ve ever had a beignet at a café in France or New Orleans, you know how irresistible they are. This recipe offers a perfect balance of sweetness and texture, with a light, airy inside and a crisp outer layer. The dough is easy to make, and the donuts fry up quickly, giving you a freshly made, indulgent treat. Whether you’re craving something sweet for breakfast or want to impress guests at your next gathering, these donuts will definitely hit the spot!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 2/3 cup milk

• 2 eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• Oil for frying

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

2. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then add the milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.

3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.

4. Lightly flour your surface and turn the dough out. Roll it out to about 1/4-inch thickness.

5. Using a donut cutter or two round cookie cutters (one large, one small for the hole), cut the dough into donut shapes.

6. Heat oil in a deep frying pan or pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the donuts in batches, turning them until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.

7. Once fried, transfer the donuts to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

8. Dust with powdered sugar while still warm and serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12-14 donuts, depending on the size of the cutter used.

• Preparation time: 15 minutes

• Cooking time: 10-12 minutes

• Total time: 25-30 minutes

• Serves: 4-6 people

Variations

1. Chocolate Beignets: Add cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolatey twist.

2. Filled Donuts: After frying, make a small slit in the donuts and fill them with jam, custard, or chocolate ganache.

3. Spiced Beignets: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.

4. Maple Glaze: Drizzle a maple glaze over the donuts for a sweet, syrupy finish.

5. Citrus Zest: Add a bit of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a fresh citrus flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the donuts in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes or warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Beignet donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but they can still be tasty the next day when reheated.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

2. Can I bake these donuts instead of frying them?

While frying gives them their signature crispy exterior, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, but they won’t have the same texture.

3. Can I use a different type of flour?

You can use cake flour for a softer donut or whole wheat flour for a more rustic flavor, but the texture may vary.

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

Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature. Alternatively, drop a small piece of dough into the oil—if it bubbles up and starts to brown quickly, the oil is ready.

5. Can I freeze these donuts?

Yes, you can freeze the donuts after frying. Allow them to cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispness.

6. Can I use other sweeteners besides sugar?

Yes, you can substitute sugar with honey or maple syrup, but it may slightly alter the texture and flavor.

7. What can I serve with French donuts?

These donuts are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with coffee, hot chocolate, or a fruit compote.

8. Can I make these donuts gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but be sure to check for any adjustments needed in the recipe.

9. How do I prevent the donuts from absorbing too much oil?

Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying. If the oil is too cold, the donuts will soak up more oil. Also, drain the fried donuts on paper towels to remove excess oil.

10. How long does it take to fry the donuts?

Each batch typically takes about 2-3 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them as they fry to prevent burning.

Conclusion

Classic French Donuts are the perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re a fan of crispy, golden pastries or you’re looking to recreate a French café experience at home, this recipe is sure to delight. The combination of simple ingredients, easy preparation, and delicious results makes it a must-try for anyone craving a tasty and authentic pastry. Enjoy them fresh, warm, and dusted with powdered sugar for the ultimate indulgence!