The Best Homemade Beignets Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These homemade beignets are soft, fluffy, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. They’re simple to make and bring a taste of New Orleans right to your kitchen.
- Light and airy texture: Each bite melts in your mouth with just the right amount of chew.
- Customizable toppings: Dust them with powdered sugar, dip in chocolate, or add your favorite syrup.
- Quick and fun to make: Ready in under an hour, they’re a great treat for any time of day.
Recipe
Beignets are a classic French pastry known for their light, fluffy texture and sweet flavor. These delicious treats are perfect for breakfast or dessert and are traditionally served with powdered sugar.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons vegetable shortening
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
- Add the remaining sugar, salt, egg, and evaporated milk to the yeast mixture. Mix well.
- Gradually add flour, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead in the vegetable shortening until fully incorporated.
- Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into 2-inch squares.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry the beignets in batches until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels and dust generously with powdered sugar.
Notes:
- Make sure the oil temperature is consistent to avoid greasy beignets.
- Serve immediately for the best texture.
Equipment:
- Mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Deep skillet or pot
- Thermometer
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rising Time: 2 hours
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine:
French
Serving:
Makes about 24 beignets
Nutrition
Homemade beignets are a delicious treat, but they are also high in calories and fat. Here’s a breakdown of their nutritional content per serving.
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving (1 beignet) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Total Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 20mg |
| Sodium | 120mg |
| Total Carbs | 18g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.5g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Protein | 2g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade beignets with a steaming cup of coffee, especially a smooth French roast or a creamy latte. For dipping, I can’t resist caramel or chocolate sauce, but a simple dusting of powdered sugar works wonders too. Experimenting with different combinations keeps things exciting!
Coffee Pairing Ideas
When you’re enjoying fluffy, warm beignets, it’s hard to imagine a better companion than a cup of coffee. I love pairing them with a rich, dark roast because it balances the sweetness perfectly. If you’re feeling fancy, try a latte or cappuccino—the creamy foam adds a lovely contrast. For something unique, I recommend a chicory coffee blend; it’s earthy flavor complements the beignets’ lightness. Cold brew works too, especially on warmer days, as its smoothness doesn’t overpower the treat. Whatever you choose, take time to savor the moment—it’s a match made in heaven.
Dipping Sauces Selection
Though beignets are delicious on their own, dipping sauces can take them to the next level. I love pairing them with classic chocolate ganache—rich, smooth, and just sweet enough. For a twist, try caramel sauce with a pinch of sea salt; the salty-sweet combo is irresistible. If you’re feeling fancy, a raspberry coulis adds a tangy freshness that cuts through the dough’s richness. And don’t forget powdered sugar dusted over everything! My personal favorite? A simple vanilla glaze—it’s easy to make and lets the beignet’s flavor shine. Experiment with these, and you’ll find your perfect match.
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