Description
These Easy Homemade Beignets are soft, fluffy, and golden fried pastries dusted generously with powdered sugar. Perfectly crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, these classic French-style doughnuts are an irresistible treat ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack paired with coffee or hot chocolate.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil (for frying, enough to fill about 2 inches in the skillet or pot)
For Dusting:
- Powdered sugar (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients—2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt—until well combined. In a separate bowl, mix the wet ingredients: 1/2 cup whole milk, 2 large eggs, 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir gently until just combined, leaving a few lumps to ensure a tender dough.
- Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or heavy pot so that it reaches about 2 inches high. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Test readiness by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil—if it sizzles and quickly rises to the surface, the oil is ready for frying.
- Fry the Beignets: Lightly flour a work surface and turn out the dough. Roll it gently to about 1/2 inch thickness. Cut the dough into squares or rectangles approximately 2-3 inches in size. Carefully place a few pieces of dough into the hot oil without overcrowding to maintain oil temperature. Fry each side for 2-3 minutes or until the beignets are golden brown and puffed. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them onto paper towel-lined plates to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Once the beignets are slightly cooled but still warm, dust them generously with powdered sugar. Serve immediately for the best fluffy and sweet experience, perfect with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.
Notes
- Do not overmix the dough to keep the beignets light and fluffy.
- Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F to ensure even cooking without absorbing excess oil.
- Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding and temperature drops.
- Serve beignets warm as they are best enjoyed fresh.
- For variation, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra flavor.
