Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp fine salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup warm whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Neutral oil, for frying (about 6 cups)
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, for burying
Instructions
- Mix the dough. Whisk the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Whisk the warm milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla; stir into the dry ingredients until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Rest 10 minutes.
- Roll and cut. On a floured surface, roll the dough 1/4-inch thick and cut into 2-inch squares.
- Heat the oil. Pour 2 inches of oil into a heavy pot and heat to 375°F (190°C). Line a sheet pan with paper towels.
- Fry the beignets. Fry a few squares at a time, about 1 minute per side, until puffed and deep golden. Lift out with a slotted spoon and drain on the paper towels.
- Bury in sugar. While still hot, toss the beignets generously in powdered sugar — don’t be shy — and serve immediately.
💡 Beignet smarts
Don't overwork the dough — tender beignets come from a light hand and a short rest. Roll to a true 1/4 inch; thicker squares stay doughy in the middle. And serve them within minutes of frying, buried in sugar — beignets wait for no one.
Common questions
Yeast or baking powder — which is authentic?
Traditional New Orleans beignets use yeast and an overnight rise. This 30-minute version uses baking powder for the same pillowy result, fast.
Can I make beignet dough ahead?
The dough can rest up to 1 hour at room temperature. For the true experience, fry them fresh — beignets wait for no one.
Can I freeze beignets?
Yes — freeze the fried, cooled beignets and reheat at 350°F for 8 minutes. They won't be quite as cloud-like, but still wonderful.
What do I serve with beignets?
Chicory coffee, obviously — café au lait is the traditional pairing. Chocolate sauce for dipping doesn't hurt either.
Love this recipe?
Save it to your "Fall Baking Recipes" board so it's always one click away when the craving hits.
📌 Pin it for later