Vanilla French Beignets

The Sweet Surrender of Vanilla French Beignets

Ever walked through a charming French café, inhaling the warm, sugary aroma of freshly fried pastries? That’s what Vanilla French Beignets offer — a delightful treat that’s like a warm hug for your taste buds! 🍩 This recipe is special because it’s quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying, making it perfect for brunch, dessert, or just because you deserve something sweet.

Why Make This Recipe

Why should you add this to your cooking repertoire? Well, it’s simple!

• Effortless Cleanup: With just one mixing bowl and a deep pot, you’ll spend more time enjoying your beignets than scrubbing dishes. Who doesn’t love that?
• Family-Friendly Fun: These fluffy bites are a hit with kids and adults alike. Let your little ones help — just don’t laugh too hard if they sprinkle half the powdered sugar on their faces instead of the beignets!
• Versatile Treat: Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering, these beignets bring a sweet touch to any occasion.

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Oil for frying
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions

Follow these steps to mouthwatering Vanilla French Beignets:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
4. Heat oil in a deep pot over medium heat.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Remove beignets from oil and drain on paper towels.
7. Dust with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy your warm beignets!

How to Make Vanilla French Beignets (Overview)

Making these beignets is easier than you think! Start by mixing your dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet in another — no fancy mixers needed. Combine them and then get that oil hot! It’s important that the oil is just right; too hot, and you’ll burn them, too cool, and they’ll soak up too much oil. Fry each golden nugget until it’s puffy and browned, then dust generously with powdered sugar. Pro tip: If you think there can be too much sugar, you’re wrong.

How to Serve Vanilla French Beignets

Serve these beauties warm, straight from the fryer! The powdered sugar visually pops against the lightly browned dough, while the aroma wafts around your kitchen like an inviting cloud. Pair them with a cup of hot cocoa or a steaming latte for a cozy treat. Or be bold — drizzle some chocolate sauce over them for an indulgent dessert!

How to Store Vanilla French Beignets

If you somehow have leftover beignets (which is unlikely), they’ll keep in the fridge for about 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 1 month. Just make sure to reheat in the oven at a low temperature to bring back that crispy texture. No one wants soggy beignets!

Tips to Make Vanilla French Beignets

• Timing is Everything: Don’t mix the batter too much. Over-mixing can lead to flat beignets.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh baking powder makes a huge difference in fluffiness. If it’s been sitting in your cupboard since last holiday season, toss it!
• Oil Temperature Matters: Use a thermometer to keep the oil around 350°F. If you drop a bit of batter in and it sizzles, you’re good to go!
• Experiment with Flavors: Feeling adventurous? Try adding a dash of cinnamon for a warm twist!

Variation

Want to switch it up? You can easily swap out vanilla extract for almond for an unexpected nutty flavor. Or, if you’re feeling wild, try folding in some chocolate chips or chopped fruits like apples or pears. Vegan? Replace milk with your favorite plant-based milk and use flax eggs!

FAQs

1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix the dry and wet ingredients in advance and combine them right before frying.

2. Can I freeze the beignets?
Yes! Freeze them after frying. Make sure to keep them in an airtight container.

3. What can I use instead of all-purpose flour?
A gluten-free flour blend should work well, but check the package for specific instructions.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Vanilla French Beignets

Delightful, warm, and fluffy Vanilla French Beignets that are quick and easy to make, perfect for brunch or dessert.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: French

Calories: 220

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder Make sure it's fresh for fluffiness.
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup milk Can be replaced with plant-based milk for a vegan option.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Can substitute with almond extract for a variation.

For Cooking

• Oil for frying Ensure the oil is heated to 350°F.
• Powdered sugar for dusting Generously dust before serving.

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Cooking

1. Heat oil in a deep pot over medium heat.
2. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Remove beignets from oil and drain on paper towels.
4. Dust with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy your warm beignets!

Notes

For storage, keep leftover beignets in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze them for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven for best results. Timing is crucial with the batter; avoid over-mixing for fluffy beignets.