Jump to Recipe Print RecipeEvery sunny morning holds the promise of a delicious surprise, especially when that surprise is a plate of homemade Vanilla French Beignets. As the warm, sweet scent fills your kitchen, you’ll soon discover these little puffs of joy are not just a treat, but a delightful comfort food perfect for those special brunches or cozy family gatherings. With their light, fluffy texture and a dusting of powdered sugar, these beignets are an easy and fun way to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, you can give them a personalized twist by adding a hint of nutmeg or lemon zest, opening up a world of flavor possibilities! Ready to create these delightful bites and watch everyone’s faces light up? Why are Vanilla French Beignets irresistible? Comforting, Fluffy Bites: Each beignet is a soft, airy treasure that melts in your mouth, offering the ultimate comfort food experience. Easy Homemade Treats: With just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate these café classics right in your own kitchen! Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for brunch or dessert, these beignets will impress friends, family, and kids alike. Versatile Flavors: Get creative! Add unique flavors like nutmeg or lemon zest to personalize your beignets and elevate their taste. Quick Frying Magic: They come together in no time, making them an easy choice for spontaneous gatherings. Whether serving them hot and dusted with powdered sugar or offering a selection of dipping sauces, your Vanilla French Beignets are poised to be the star of any meal! Vanilla French Beignets Ingredients To create these fluffy treats, gather these simple ingredients for your delightful Vanilla French Beignets! For the Dough Warm Milk (1 cup, 105-115°F) – Hydrates and activates the yeast; substitute with whole milk if preferred. Active Dry Yeast (1/4 ounce, about 2 1/4 teaspoons) – This leavening agent helps your dough rise; ensure it’s fresh for the best results. Granulated Sugar (1/4 cup) – Sweetens the dough and provides food for the yeast; brown sugar works well for a richer flavor. Large Egg (1) – Adds richness and binds everything together. Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Infuses your beignets with a delightful flavor depth; increase for a stronger vanilla essence. Salt (1/2 teaspoon) – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness. Unsalted Butter, melted (1/4 cup) – Brings richness and moisture to the dough; margarine is a suitable substitute. All-Purpose Flour (3 1/2 to 4 cups) – Provides structure to the dough; bread flour can be used for a chewier texture, but may alter the result. For Frying Vegetable Oil – Essential for frying the beignets; ensure it’s deep enough for the dough to float and cook evenly. For Dusting & Presentation Powdered Sugar – The sweet, snowy finish for your beignets, making them extra tempting to serve! Make sure to have these ingredients on hand, and soon you’ll be indulging in a batch of warm, homemade Vanilla French Beignets that everyone will love! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vanilla French Beignets Step 1: Prep the Yeast Mixture In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of warm milk (105-115°F), 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast, and a pinch of granulated sugar. Let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy and bubbly. This activation step is crucial for fluffy Vanilla French Beignets, as it ensures the yeast is alive and ready to help your dough rise. Step 2: Mix Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the yeast mixture, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter. Blend these ingredients thoroughly until smooth, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly. You’ll create a rich, inviting base for your delightful beignet dough. Step 3: Form the Dough Gradually fold in 3 1/2 to 4 cups of all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft dough begins to form. Once combined, turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic. At this stage, your Vanilla French Beignets are beginning to take shape, promising a delightful texture once fried. Step 4: First Rise Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This important step not only increases volume but also infuses a light and airy texture into your beignets. Step 5: Roll & Cut Dough Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release air. Roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into squares or rectangles, roughly 2-3 inches each. Preparing your pieces now will ensure an even fry and perfect puffiness in your Vanilla French Beignets. Step 6: Fry Beignets In a deep fryer or large pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C), ensuring the oil is deep enough for the beignets to float while frying. Carefully add several pieces of your dough, frying for 1-2 minutes per side until they are golden brown and puffed up. Glancing at them while cooking will help you catch that perfect golden color needed for delicious Vanilla French Beignets. Step 7: Serve Once fried, remove the beignets from the oil and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Generously dust them with powdered sugar while they are still warm. This final touch adds sweetness and enhances the presentation of your Vanilla French Beignets, making them irresistible to serve warm right away! What to Serve with Vanilla French Beignets? Indulge in a delightful brunch or dessert experience with these light and fluffy treats perfectly paired with a variety of complementary options. Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing burst of sweetness, balancing the rich decadence of the beignets. Creamy Yogurt Dip: A side of vanilla or honey yogurt provides a tangy and smooth contrast, making each bite even more enjoyable. Chocolate Sauce: Warm chocolate sauce drizzled over beignets creates a beautifully rich and irresistible dessert experience that chocolate lovers will adore. Café au Lait: Pair these beignets with a strong coffee and steamed milk combination for a perfect morning treat that awakens the senses. Light Fruit Salad: Combine seasonal fruits for a fresh and colorful medley that brightens up your table while balancing the sweetness of the beignets. Spiced Apple Compote: Serve warm spiced apples for a cozy flavor combination that adds warmth and comfort to your brunch table. With these serving suggestions, you can create an inviting meal that transforms simple Vanilla French Beignets into a memorable feast for family and friends. Enjoy the smiles and delicious moments that follow! How to Store and Freeze Vanilla French Beignets Room Temperature: Store beignets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their soft texture. Fridge: If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 3 days, ensuring they’re well-wrapped to prevent them from drying out. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the beignets in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheating: To enjoy, reheat beignets in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes or until warmed through, and dust with powdered sugar before serving. Make Ahead Options These Vanilla French Beignets are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the dough ahead of time, allowing it to rise for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Simply complete the first rise, punch down the dough, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. When you’re ready to fry, activate the dough by letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling and cutting. This method not only saves you precious time on busy mornings but also ensures your beignets are just as delicious and fluffy when fried. Enjoy the ease of having these delightful treats ready to go! Expert Tips for Vanilla French Beignets Rise Time Matters: Allow the dough to rise properly; rushing this step can lead to dense, flat beignets instead of the light, airy texture you desire. Perfect Frying Technique: Don’t overcrowd the pot while frying. It’s essential to maintain the oil temperature for that crispy outer layer. Flavor Variations: Want to switch things up? Add a pinch of nutmeg or lemon zest to the dough for a delightful twist, ensuring you avoid fillings before frying. Make-Ahead Option: For extra convenience, the dough can be prepared in advance, allowed to rise, and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying. Check Oil Temperature: Use a candy thermometer for accuracy to ensure your oil is at 350°F (175°C). Proper temperature is key for perfectly cooked Vanilla French Beignets. Dust Generously: Always dust the beignets with powdered sugar while still warm. It not only enhances presentation but also helps the sugar stick better for that sweet delight! Vanilla French Beignets: Fun Variations Await! Get ready to play with flavors and textures, as these delightful beignets are perfect for your creativity to shine! Dairy-Free: Replace the milk with almond or coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free option that retains the delightful texture. Citrus Twist: Adding a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough will brighten the flavor and add a lovely aroma. Nutty Goodness: Incorporate finely chopped nuts like pecans or almonds into the dough for a satisfying crunch and a unique twist. Chocolate-Infused: Mix in cocoa powder to create a rich chocolate version, and pair with a chocolate sauce for dipping—heavenly! Sweet Spice: A pinch of cinnamon or cardamom can elevate the flavor profile, making them truly irresistible. Imagine the warmth while they cook! Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend, adjusting the moisture content slightly for a light and airy result without the wheat. Savory Option: Swap out sugar for savory herbs like rosemary or thyme for a unique beignet that pairs beautifully with soups or salads. Stuffed Delight: After frying, inject or fill with homemade pastry cream, fruit preserves, or even Nutella for a decadent surprise! Each variation brings its own charm, so don’t hesitate to mix it up as you explore the world of flavors with your homemade Vanilla French Beignets. Enjoy the journey! Vanilla French Beignets Recipe FAQs How do I know if my yeast is active? Absolutely! To ensure your active dry yeast is fresh, mix it with warm milk (between 105-115°F) and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes. If it becomes frothy and bubbly, your yeast is active and ready to use! Can I store leftover beignets? Of course! Store your Vanilla French Beignets in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them for up to 3 days, ensuring they’re well wrapped so they don’t dry out. Can I freeze Vanilla French Beignets? Yes, you can! To freeze beignets, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them into an airtight container or freezer bag after they’re frozen solid. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. What should I do if my beignets didn’t puff up? Very! If your beignets didn’t puff up as expected, there could be a few reasons. Ensure your yeast was fresh and properly activated. Additionally, make sure the oil is at the right temperature (350°F/175°C). Avoid overcrowding in the pot while frying, as this can lower the oil temperature, preventing proper puffing. Can I adjust the recipe for dietary restrictions? Absolutely! If you need a gluten-free option, you can replace some or all of the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour; just be mindful that you may need to adjust the moisture content. For vegan beignets, consider substituting the egg with a flaxseed meal or applesauce and use plant-based milk and butter. Can I add flavors to my beignets? You bet! To personalize your Vanilla French Beignets, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or lemon zest to the dough for added flavor. Remember to avoid filling them before frying to prevent any mishaps during cooking! Vanilla French Beignets: Fluffy Delight for Your Brunch Table Enjoy delightful Vanilla French Beignets, fluffy comfort food perfect for brunch or gatherings, irresistible with a touch of powdered sugar. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsFirst Rise 1 hour hr 30 minutes minsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 5 minutes mins Servings: 8 beignetsCourse: DessertCuisine: FrenchCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough1 cup Warm Milk 105-115°F1/4 ounce Active Dry Yeast about 2 1/4 teaspoons1/4 cup Granulated Sugar brown sugar works well for richer flavor1 large Egg adds richness1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract increase for stronger flavor1/2 teaspoon Salt enhances flavor1/4 cup Unsalted Butter, melted margarine is a substitute3 1/2 to 4 cups All-Purpose Flour bread flour can be usedFor FryingVegetable Oil for fryingFor Dusting & PresentationPowdered Sugar for finishing Equipment Mixing bowlWhiskRolling Pindeep fryer or large pot Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Vanilla French BeignetsIn a small bowl, combine warm milk, active dry yeast, and a pinch of granulated sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.In a large bowl, whisk together the yeast mixture, granulated sugar, egg, vanilla extract, salt, and melted butter until smooth.Gradually fold in all-purpose flour until a soft dough forms; knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.Punch down the dough, roll out to 1/4 inch thickness, and cut into squares or rectangles.Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or pot. Fry pieces for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown.Remove from oil and drain on paper towel. Dust with powdered sugar while warm. Nutrition Serving: 1beignetCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 50mgSugar: 4gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg NotesTo store, use an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 3 days. Freeze for longer storage. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
