How to Make Authentic Vanilla French Beignets Recipe

Hey there, fellow bakers and dessert lovers! Today, I’m super excited to share with you a recipe that’s close to my heart—how to make authentic Vanilla French Beignets right in your own kitchen! These light, airy, and oh-so-delicious treats are a classic French dessert that’s easier to make than you might think. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to bring a taste of France into their home. Plus, it’s a fun and easy baking recipe that the whole family can enjoy. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light and airy texture that’s just like the ones you’d find in a French patisserie
• Simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry
• Perfect for a quick family dessert or as a sweet snack
• A fun baking project that’s great for weeknight dinner ideas or special occasions
• Covered in powdered sugar for that classic beignet look and taste

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Vanilla French Beignets:

• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
• ¾ cup warm water
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup whole milk
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• Pinch of salt
• Oil for frying
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s walk through the steps to make these Vanilla French Beignets:

1. Dissolve yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is important to activate the yeast and ensure your beignets are light and airy.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. This mixture forms the base of your dough and gives the beignets their delicious flavor.
3. Gradually add the flour and salt, stirring to form a dough. Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. Don’t overwork the dough—it should still be slightly sticky.
4. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This step is crucial for getting that light and airy texture.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ½-inch thickness. Cut into squares or circles—whatever shape you prefer for your beignets!
6. Heat oil in a deep fryer or pot to 350°F. Fry the beignets until they’re golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Keep an eye on the temperature to ensure the oil doesn’t get too hot.
7. Remove the beignets from the oil and drain on paper towels. Dust them generously with powdered sugar before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some tips to help you make the best Vanilla French Beignets:

• Use the right oil. A neutral-tasting oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola oil, works best for frying beignets.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot. Fry the beignets in batches if necessary, to ensure they have enough room to cook evenly.
• Dust with powdered sugar immediately. The powdered sugar will stick better to the warm beignets, giving them that classic look and extra sweetness.
• Let the dough rest. Allowing the dough to rise fully will result in a lighter, airier texture.

How to Serve

These Vanilla French Beignets are best served warm, dusted with powdered sugar. You can enjoy them on their own or with a side of your favorite dessert sauce, like chocolate or caramel. They’re also delicious with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a French-inspired breakfast or brunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

If you want to make these beignets ahead of time, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just bring it to room temperature before rolling it out. Once fried, the beignets are best served immediately, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes before serving.

And there you have it—your very own authentic Vanilla French Beignets recipe! Whether you’re looking for a fun baking project or just want to satisfy your sweet tooth, these beignets are sure to become a new favorite. Happy baking!

For more delicious dessert recipes and baking tips, be sure to check out How to Make Authentic Vanilla French Beignets Recipe and other great recipes on our site.

Vanilla French Beignets Recipe

A classic French dessert, these Vanilla French Beignets are light, airy, and sweet, perfect for dusting with powdered sugar.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 12 beignets

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: French

Calories: 2500

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
• ¾ cup warm water
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup whole milk
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• Pinch of salt
• Oil for frying
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Method

 

1. Dissolve yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add the flour and salt, stirring to form a dough. Knead until smooth.
4. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ½-inch thickness. Cut into squares or circles.
6. Heat oil in a deep fryer or pot to 350°F. Fry beignets until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Remove and drain on paper towels. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

For best results, ensure the oil is at the correct temperature and avoid overcrowding the pot for even frying.