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Vanilla French Beignets: Your Cozy New Orleans Brunch Treat

These homemade Vanilla French Beignets are a cozy brunch treat that embodies the warmth of New Orleans.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 12 beignets
Course: Brunch
Cuisine: New Orleans
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Beignets
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour or bread flour for a different texture
  • 1/4 cup Sugar adds sweetness
  • 1 packet Yeast instant yeast preferred
  • 3/4 cup Evaporated Milk or whole milk as a substitute
  • 2 Eggs contributes richness
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt balances sweetness
For Dusting and Frying
  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar for dusting
  • 2 inches Neutral Oil (e.g., vegetable or canola) for frying

Equipment

  • Stand Mixer
  • Deep pot
  • slotted spoon
  • Kitchen Towel
  • Floured Surface

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a large mixing bowl or using a stand mixer, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, yeast, evaporated milk, eggs, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and slightly sticky.
  2. Transfer the kneaded dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover it, and place in a warm area to rise until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.
  3. Punch the dough down gently, then turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it out to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Cut into equal squares, roughly 2-3 inches on each side.
  4. Loosely cover the cut squares and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
  5. In a deep pot, heat neutral oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the risen dough squares into the hot oil, frying each side for about 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown.
  6. Remove the beignets from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. While warm, dust them generously with powdered sugar and serve right away.

Notes

Ensure proper rising time for airy beignets and fry at the right temperature to avoid greasy results. Serve fresh for the best experience.