Fluffy Beignet Recipe

Hey there foodies! Today, we bring you this exciting new recipe that we’re so stumped about – the Fluffy Beignet recipe!

Beignets are golden, pillow-soft fried pastries, dusted generously with powdered sugar. Popularized in New Orleans, especially in the French Quarter, beignets are a delightful treat for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack. Their crispy exterior and fluffy interior, paired with the sweetness of the powdered sugar, make them irresistible.

Whether you’re familiar with the bustling Café du Monde or you’ve only seen beignets in pictures, this recipe will walk you through how to make this beloved pastry at home with ease.

Brief History Of Beignets:

Beignets date back to ancient Rome but were introduced to New Orleans by French settlers in the 18th century. These fried dough squares quickly became a part of Louisiana Creole cuisine. Today, beignets are iconic in New Orleans culture, especially served with coffee (often a chicory café au lait). They’re a symbol of the city’s French heritage and Southern hospitality.

Fluffy Beignet Recipe

Pinklady

Beignets date back to ancient Rome but were introduced to New Orleans by French settlers in the 18th century. These fried dough squares quickly became a part of Louisiana Creole cuisine. Today, beignets are iconic in New Orleans culture, especially served with coffee (often a chicory café au lait). They’re a symbol of the city’s French heritage and Southern hospitality.

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Prep Time 2 hours hrs

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Course Pastries

Cuisine Ancient Rome

Servings 24 Beignets

Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Dough hook or spatula
• Rolling Pin
• Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
• Slotted spoon or tongs
• Paper towels for draining

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

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Instructions

 

• Activate the Yeast

  In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast starts to bubble and foam. This step ensures that your yeast is alive and active, which is crucial for the dough to rise.
• Mix the Dough

  Once the yeast has activated, whisk in the sugar, salt, egg, and milk until smooth. Gradually add in the flour, one cup at a time, mixing after each addition. When the dough becomes thick and slightly sticky, stir in the melted butter.
• Knead the Dough

  If you’re using a stand mixer, switch to a dough hook attachment and knead the dough for about 5 minutes on medium speed.
• If you're kneading by hand, turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add a little extra flour if the dough is too sticky, but avoid adding too much, as it should remain soft.
• Let the Dough Rise

  Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
• Roll Out the Dough

  Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and use a rolling pin to roll it into a ¼-inch thick rectangle. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into 2-inch squares.
• Heat the Oil

  In a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to keep the oil at this temperature for even frying.
• Fry the Beignets

  Carefully drop a few squares of dough into the hot oil (do not overcrowd the pot). Fry for 1-2 minutes on each side, until they puff up and turn golden brown. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the beignets and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
• Dust with Powdered Sugar

  Once the beignets have slightly cooled, generously dust them with powdered sugar. For a traditional New Orleans touch, serve them hot with a cup of coffee or a café au lait.

Video

Keyword Fluffy Beignet Recipe

Similar Recipes to Try:

– Doughnuts: Another fried dough treat, often filled or glazed.
– Churros: Spanish fried pastries, typically coated in cinnamon sugar.
– Funnel Cake: A fairground favorite, funnel cake is deep-fried dough, dusted with powdered sugar.
– Zeppole: Italian doughnuts that are light and airy, often served with powdered sugar or honey.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fluffy Beignet Recipe:

1. Can I bake beignets instead of frying them?

Beignets are traditionally fried, but you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes. However, the texture will be different—less crispy and more bread-like.

2. What’s the best oil for frying beignets?

Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil works best for frying beignets due to their high smoke points.

3. Can I freeze beignet dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough after it has risen. When ready to use, thaw the dough, let it rise again, then roll and fry.

4. How do I store leftover beignets?

Beignets are best eaten fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.

5. Why didn’t my beignets puff up?

If your beignets didn’t puff, the oil might not have been hot enough, or the dough didn’t rise properly. Be sure to let the dough double in size and maintain oil at 350°F (175°C).

6. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast. You don’t need to activate it in water first—just mix it directly into the dry ingredients.

7. Do I need a deep fryer to make beignets?

No, you can use a deep heavy-bottomed pot. Just make sure to maintain the oil at a consistent temperature for even frying.

8. Can I use gluten-free flour for beignets?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture might differ slightly from traditional beignets.

9. Can I add fillings to beignets?

Traditional beignets are plain, but you can add fillings like fruit preserves or custard if desired. Add them after frying, using a piping bag to inject the filling.

Conclusion:

Beignets are more than just a pastry; they’re a taste of New Orleans and a reminder of the city’s rich cultural heritage. While they may look intimidating to make, following these steps ensures you’ll have a batch of soft, fluffy beignets to enjoy in no time. Whether you’re enjoying them with friends or having a solo coffee break, homemade beignets will transport you to the streets of the French Quarter.

YouTube Video Credits:
Preppy Kitchen