Vanilla French Beignets: A Sweet Delight You’ll Love!

Delicious Vanilla French Beignets Plated for Serving
Save now, cook later!

Are you ready to indulge your taste buds with a delightful treat? Vanilla French Beignets are the answer to your sweet cravings, offering a perfect blend of fluffy texture and creamy flavor.

These airy pastries, reminiscent of the classic French doughnuts, are dusted with powdered sugar and elevate any breakfast or dessert table.

Moreover, the enticing aroma of vanilla fills the air as these delectable bites fry to golden perfection. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or shared with friends, these charming pastries provide a moment of bliss that’s simply irresistible.

Join us as we explore the wonderful world of Vanilla French Beignets!

Ingredients for Vanilla French Beignets

To create delightful Vanilla French Beignets, gather the following ingredients:

IngredientAmount/Measurement
Warm milk (105–115°F)1 cup
Active dry yeast¼ ounce (≈ 2 ¼ teaspoons)
Granulated sugar¼ cup
Large egg1
Vanilla extract1 teaspoon
Salt½ teaspoon
Unsalted butter, melted¼ cup
All-purpose flour3 ½ – 4 cups
Vegetable oil (for frying)As needed
Powdered sugar (for dusting)As needed

For those who crave more sweet surprises, consider pairing your beignets with a delightful fruit spread like this Blackberry Vanilla Bourbon Jam.

How to prepare Vanilla French Beignets

Got it! Here’s your recipe clearly numbered as Step 1, Step 2…

Vanilla French Beignets – Step by Step

Step 1: Warm 1 cup milk to 105–115°F (≈ 40–46°C).

Step 2: Pour the warm milk into a mixing bowl, sprinkle 1/4 oz active dry yeast (≈ 2¼ tsp) over it, stir gently, and let sit for 5 minutes until bubbly.

Vanilla French Beignets

Step 3: Add 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/2 tsp salt to the yeast mixture; whisk to combine.

Step 4: Stir in 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter (cooled slightly).

Step 5: Gradually mix in 3½–4 cups all-purpose flour until a soft dough forms.

Step 6: Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 5–8 minutes.

Step 7: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 8: Punch down the dough, roll out to 1/2-inch thickness, and cut into squares or rounds.

Step 9: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the beignets in batches, 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown.

Step 10: Remove with a slotted spoon, drain on paper towels, and dust generously with powdered sugar. Serve warm.

For an extra twist, pair them with a homemade spread like Blackberry Vanilla Jam for a unique flavor experience!

Tips for Perfect Vanilla French Beignets

To achieve the ultimate Vanilla French Beignets, start with fresh ingredients. Use high-quality flour and pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.

Ensure your dough is not overworked; this will keep your beignets light and fluffy. When it comes to frying, maintain the oil temperature between 350°F and 375°F for consistent cooking. Use a thermometer to avoid undercooking or burning.

Additionally, let your beignets rest after frying. This allows them to set, enhancing their texture. Consider serving them with a drizzle of flavored syrup. A delightful option is Blackberry Vanilla Bourbon Jam, which pairs wonderfully with these sweet treats. Finally, dust them with powdered sugar just before serving for an irresistible look and flavor.

For an even more detailed guide on frying techniques and tips, visit this comprehensive resource. Following these tips will ensure your Vanilla French Beignets are perfect every time!

Serving Suggestions for Vanilla French Beignets

Delight in the fluffy goodness of Vanilla French Beignets, perfect for enhancing any breakfast or dessert spread. Serving these warm pastries alongside a rich chocolate sauce or fresh fruit compote elevates the experience.

Consider pairing them with your favorite jams, like Blackberry Vanilla Bourbon Jam, for a burst of flavor that perfectly contrasts the beignet’s sweetness.

For a delightful twist, dust the beignets with powdered sugar right before serving. Additionally, providing a side of whipped cream or sweetened mascarpone can enhance their creamy indulgence.

These beignets also shine at brunch tables when arranged with an array of pastries, including cinnamon rolls and other sweet dishes, allowing guests to mix and match.

Ultimately, Vanilla French Beignets shine alone or accompanied by fresh fruit and a drizzle of honey. Enjoying them with a steaming cup of coffee or tea creates a comforting, cozy atmosphere that invites lingering conversations.

Storage tips for Vanilla French Beignets

To keep your Vanilla French Beignets fresh and delicious, proper storage is essential. Start by letting the beignets cool completely at room temperature. This step prevents condensation, which could make them soggy.

When cool, place your beignets in an airtight container. You can layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking. Store them at room temperature for up to two days.

For longer storage, consider freezing. Wrap each beignet tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to a month in the freezer without losing their charming flavor and texture.

When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven for a few minutes.

If you’re looking for a sweet accompaniment, try pairing these delightful pastries with homemade jams like blackberry vanilla bourbon jam. This combination luxuriously enhances the beignets and makes for a delightful breakfast or snack!

Variations

Indulging in delicious Vanilla French Beignets doesn’t mean you can’t explore delightful twists. Consider adding a berry jam, like blackberry vanilla bourbon jam, to enhance the flavor profile.

Additionally, experiment with spices or citrus zest to create unique variations. These beignets can easily adapt to seasonal ingredients for a personal touch in every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are Vanilla French Beignets?

Vanilla French beignets are delightful, fluffy pastries originating from French cuisine. They are typically made with a yeasted dough, deep-fried until golden brown, and dusted with powdered sugar. Their rich vanilla flavor sets them apart, making them a sweet treat perfect for breakfast or dessert.

How are beignets different from doughnuts?

While both beignets and doughnuts are fried pastries, beignets are generally lighter and square-shaped without a hole in the center. Moreover, they are often enjoyed dusted with powdered sugar, whereas doughnuts may have various toppings or glazes.

Can I use different flavors for beignets?

Absolutely! While vanilla is a classic flavor, you can experiment with others like chocolate or almond. If you’re looking for a unique pairing, consider serving your Vanilla French beignets with a homemade raspberry or cherry vanilla jam for a delightful twist.

Do I need special equipment to make beignets?

Making Vanilla French beignets at home doesn’t require specialized equipment. A heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer for frying and a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature are recommended for best results.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Delicious Vanilla French Beignets Plated for Serving

Vanilla French Beignets


  • Author: Julia
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including dough rising)
  • Yield: 16 beignets 1x

Description

Indulge in fluffy, golden Vanilla French Beignets! Perfect for breakfast or dessert, these airy pastries dusted with powdered sugar are simple to make and irresistibly delicious.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Beignets:

1 cup warm milk (105–115°F / 40–46°C)

¼ oz (≈ 2¼ tsp) active dry yeast

¼ cup granulated sugar

1 large egg

1 tsp vanilla extract

½ tsp salt

¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

4 cups all-purpose flour

Vegetable oil, for frying

Powdered sugar, for dusting

Optional Pairing:

Blackberry Vanilla Bourbon Jam or your favorite fruit spread


Instructions

  1. Step 1 – Activate yeast:
    Warm milk to 105–115°F. Pour into a mixing bowl, sprinkle yeast on top, stir gently, and let sit for 5 minutes until bubbly.
  2. Step 2 – Mix wet ingredients:
    Add sugar, egg, vanilla, and salt to the yeast mixture. Whisk to combine.
  3. Step 3 – Incorporate butter:
    Stir in melted butter (cooled slightly).
  4. Step 4 – Form dough:
    Gradually mix in 3½–4 cups of flour until a soft dough forms.
  5. Step 5 – Knead:
    Knead on a floured surface for 5–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  6. Step 6 – First rise:
    Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for ~1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  7. Step 7 – Shape beignets:
    Punch down the dough. Roll to ½-inch thickness and cut into squares or rounds.
  8. Step 8 – Fry:
    Heat vegetable oil to 350–375°F. Fry beignets in batches, 2–3 minutes per side, until golden.
  9. Step 9 – Drain & finish:
    Remove with a slotted spoon, drain on paper towels, and dust generously with powdered sugar. Serve warm.
  10. Optional Twist: Serve with fruit spreads like Blackberry Vanilla Bourbon Jam for an elevated flavor.

Notes

Ensure oil temperature stays consistent to avoid soggy or burnt beignets.

Do not overwork the dough to keep it light and airy.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 beignet
  • Calories: 210 kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 110 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg

Keywords: Vanilla French Beignets, French doughnuts, homemade beignets, breakfast pastry, dessert treat, fried pastries, vanilla beignets, powdered sugar pastries


Save now, cook later!

Similar Posts