Vanilla French Beignets

If you’re craving something sweet, pillowy, and dusted in a snowy layer of powdered sugar, these Vanilla French Beignets are your answer. These light, golden fried pastries are a classic French treat with a touch of vanilla that makes them absolutely irresistible. Enjoy them for breakfast, dessert, or anytime you want to impress guests with a homemade delight.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Light & Fluffy – These beignets are airy and soft with just the right chew.
Easy to Make – No fancy tools required; just mix, rise, fry, and dust.
Rich Vanilla Flavor – A warm, aromatic vanilla touch makes these extra special.
Perfect for Sharing – A crowd-pleaser for brunches, tea time, or holidays.
Customizable – Top with powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, or even fill with jam or custard.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dough:

• ¾ cup warm whole milk (about 110°F)
• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

For Topping:

• 1 cup powdered sugar, for dusting
• Optional: ½ tsp ground cinnamon for extra flavor

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Stand mixer with dough hook (or mix by hand)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Dough scraper or knife
• Deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot
• Slotted spoon
• Wire rack with paper towels

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a large bowl, combine warm milk and granulated sugar. Stir to dissolve.
2. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
3. If the yeast doesn’t foam, it may be inactive—start over with fresh yeast.

Step 2: Make the Dough
4. Add the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and salt to the yeast mixture and stir well.
5. Mix in the flour a little at a time until a shaggy dough forms.
6. Add the softened butter and knead until smooth—about 6–8 minutes with a mixer or 10–12 minutes by hand. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but elastic.
7. Form into a ball, place in a lightly oiled bowl, and cover with a clean kitchen towel.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
8. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for 1½ to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
9. Once risen, punch down the dough and turn it onto a floured surface.

Step 4: Roll and Cut
10. Roll out the dough to about ½-inch thickness.
11. Cut into 2 to 3-inch squares using a dough cutter or knife.
12. Transfer cut dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover lightly with a towel, and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.

Step 5: Heat the Oil
13. Pour oil into a deep skillet or pot until it’s about 2 inches deep.
14. Heat oil to 350°F (use a thermometer for accuracy).
15. Prepare a wire rack with paper towels for draining.

Step 6: Fry the Beignets
16. Gently place 3–4 beignets into the hot oil at a time—don’t overcrowd.
17. Fry for about 1–2 minutes per side until puffed and golden brown.
18. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to the paper towel-lined rack.

Step 7: Dust and Serve
19. While still warm, generously dust the beignets with powdered sugar.
20. For a twist, mix in cinnamon with the powdered sugar or serve with a dipping sauce like vanilla glaze or fruit jam.

Tips for Perfect Beignets
Use Fresh Yeast – Make sure your yeast is active for proper rising.
Don’t Overwork – Knead until smooth, but not tough.
Let Them Rise – A good second rise ensures that fluffy texture.
Oil Temperature Matters – Keep it steady at 350°F to prevent greasy or burnt beignets.
Serve Warm – Beignets are best enjoyed fresh and warm.

Serving Suggestions
Classic Powdered Sugar – Can’t go wrong with the original.
Vanilla Glaze – Mix ½ cup powdered sugar with 1 tbsp milk and a few drops of vanilla.
Berry Compote – Serve with a warm raspberry or blueberry sauce.
Chocolate Sauce – A decadent option for dessert lovers.
Coffee or Tea – These pair beautifully with a hot beverage for breakfast or brunch.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day.
• For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 3 days, but note they’ll lose some fluffiness.

Reheating:

• Oven: Warm in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat for 10–15 seconds, but they may soften.
• Do not refry—this can make them greasy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes! After the first rise, cover and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature before rolling and frying.
2. Can I bake beignets instead of frying?
   While traditionally fried, you can bake them at 375°F for about 12–15 minutes. Brush with melted butter before dusting.
3. Can I freeze beignets?
   You can freeze the uncooked dough squares and fry them straight from frozen—just add a minute or two to the cook time.
4. What’s the best oil for frying?
   Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil.
5. Can I use plant-based milk?
   Absolutely! Almond, oat, or soy milk all work well as a substitute.

Final Thoughts
These Vanilla French Beignets are a dreamy treat—soft on the inside, crisp on the outside, and perfectly dusted in sweetness. Whether you enjoy them with coffee in the morning or as an afternoon indulgence, they’ll transport you straight to a Parisian café.

Make a batch and share the love with friends or family. Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag your creation—these beignets deserve a spotlight!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Rising Time: 2 hours
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: French

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 290 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 32g | Fat: 16g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 120mg

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