Description
Classic New Orleans Beignets are light, fluffy deep-fried pastries dusted generously with powdered sugar. This traditional recipe yields crispy golden squares that are perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, embodying the authentic flavors of New Orleans.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour
- 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar
- 2 teaspoons Baking Powder
- ½ teaspoon Salt
Wet Ingredients
- ¾ cup Whole Milk
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
For Frying and Serving
- Vegetable Oil – for deep frying (enough to fill your pot with about 2–3 inches of oil)
- Powdered Sugar – for generous dusting (about ½ to 1 cup)
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the whole milk, eggs, and vanilla extract together until smooth, then gently mix this wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined to avoid overmixing.
- Knead and Roll Dough: Lightly flour a surface and knead the dough 3-4 times to bring it together. Then roll the dough out to about ¼ inch thickness and cut it into 2-inch squares using a knife or pizza cutter.
- Heat Oil and Fry: Preheat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 360°F (182°C). Carefully fry the beignet squares in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot, cooking each side for about 1-2 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
- Drain and Dust: Use a slotted spoon to remove the beignets from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. While still warm, dust generously with powdered sugar and serve immediately for the best experience.
Notes
- Use a candy or deep-fry thermometer to keep the oil temperature steady at 360°F to ensure perfectly cooked beignets.
- Do not overcrowd the frying pot to maintain oil temperature and avoid soggy beignets.
- Beignets are best enjoyed fresh and warm for optimal texture and flavor.
- You can substitute whole milk with buttermilk for a tangier flavor and a slightly lighter texture.
- Powdered sugar dusting can be adjusted to taste; some prefer a heavier coating for added sweetness.
