Light and Airy French Beignets

Q: Can I bake this French beignet recipe instead of frying them?

While you can technically *bake* them, they won't be true beignets. Baking will result in a breadier, less airy texture. If you're looking for a baked version, it's best to find a recipe specifically designed for baking. But honestly, frying is what gives beignets their signature taste and texture! Think of it as the secret ingredient, like a dash of fairy dust.

Easy French Beignet Recipe New Orleans Style Beignets

By Emily CollinsSeptember 10, 2025

5.00 (2 Ratings)

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever wondered how to make those pillowy, sugar dusted dreams you see in movies? This French beignet recipe makes it easy to recreate those melt-in-your mouth moments.

These aren't just any fried dough recipe. They are light, airy, and dusted with sweet powder.

Brief Overview

Beignets are the pride of New Orleans, with French roots. This Easy beignet recipe is a breeze! From start to finish, it's ready in around 1 hour and 50 minutes.

This recipe makes about 14 divine beignets.

Main Benefits

Besides being utterly delicious, Easy homemade beignets are perfect for a weekend treat. French beignet recipe are even better than the average homemade donuts recipe. These French pastries are a guaranteed crowd pleaser.

What You'll Need: Simple Ingredients, Amazing Results

Let's talk about what makes these beignets so darn good. This Beignet dough recipe begins with standard baking ingredients. The magic is in the proportions and a few secret touches.

We start with flour, yeast, warm milk, eggs, melted butter, sugar, salt, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and a touch of lemon zest.

For frying, you'll need vegetable oil, and finally, powdered sugar for that iconic finish.

Easy Beignet Recipe: Let's Get Cooking

You can mix your dry and wet ingredients, combine and knead the dough. After that, the most important thing is to proof the dough and you can roll and cut into those classic squares.

Now you have a golden squares of deliciousness when you fry them! Don't forget to dust with a generous helping of powdered sugar.

If you can't handle to make beignets with yeast you can use a Quick beignet recipe version without yeast for less time and similar results.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Beignet

Honestly, getting the oil temperature right is key . I have seen this in my experience. Keep it steady around 350° F ( 175° C).

And here's a little secret: don't skip the second rise after cutting the dough! It's what gives New Orleans beignets recipe that signature puff.

Beyond the Basics: Beignet Variations

Want to get a bit creative? Why not play around with your favorite Beignet variations ? Try adding cinnamon or cardamom to the dough for a spicy twist.

If you're after a different taste with your Fried dough recipe , go wild and customize them with your own flavors.

And remember, these Easy French pastries are best served fresh and warm, alongside a café au lait or hot chocolate.

Alright, let's dive into the heart of this French beignet recipe . It’s all about having the right stuff. No fancy gadgets needed for this easy beignet , just your basic kitchen gear!

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's get sorted!

First, let’s check what you need for the beignet dough recipe . This is where the magic starts, and trust me, it's easier than you think.

Main Ingredients: The Foundation of Fluffiness

All-purpose flour: 3 cups (360g) . Seriously, use good stuff. The better the flour, the better the beignet. If you want a slightly chewy homemade donuts recipe texture, you could sub in bread flour.
Active dry yeast: 2 ¼ teaspoons (7g) . Make sure it's fresh. Dead yeast equals sad, flat New Orleans beignets recipe .
Warm milk: 1 cup (240ml) . Aim for body temperature, around 100– 105° F (38- 40° C) . Too hot kills the yeast. Too cold and it won't activate!
Large eggs: 2 , room temperature.
Unsalted butter: 4 tablespoons (57g) , melted.
Granulated sugar: 3 tablespoons (36g) .
Salt: ½ teaspoon (3g) .
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon (5ml) . Go for the real deal if you can.
Optional: ¼ teaspoon (0.5g) freshly grated nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon lemon zest. Adds a little "oomph"!

Seasoning Notes: Spice it Up!

Don’t skip on the flavor enhancers and aromatics . Vanilla and nutmeg are classic. They add a warmth that's irresistible. Lemon zest brings a welcome brightness.

Feeling adventurous? Try a pinch of cardamom! It’s totally yummy. If you are in a pinch, cinnamon will do, giving you a slightly different variation to your Easy homemade beignets .

Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple!

Large mixing bowl.
Whisk.
Wooden spoon or dough scraper.
Clean kitchen towel.
Rolling pin.
Pizza cutter or sharp knife.
Deep pot for frying.
Deep fry thermometer. Absolutely essential for fried dough recipe success!
Slotted spoon.
Paper towels.

That's it! See? Nothing too scary. Once you have all these items, the quick beignet recipe is a breeze! Now, let’s get to the fun part of making these Easy French pastries .

Trust me, you’ll be saying “ Ooh la la! ” in no time! Also, there are many beignet variations to try later!

Mastering the French Beignet Recipe : Easy Beignet Heaven!

Honestly, who doesn’t love a good French beignet recipe ? The smell of fried dough and the dusting of powdered sugar pure bliss! I'm going to take you through how to make these little pillows of joy yourself, I’m going to share my favourite Easy beignet recipe one that's foolproof, even if you're a bit of a baking novice.

Get ready for some seriously good eating, mate!

Prep Like a Pro

Essential mise en place: Get everything measured out before you start. This is proper cheffy. Warm your milk to 100 105° F (38- 40° C) .

Room temperature eggs are your friend. Melt that butter. It makes life so much easier.

Time saving organization tips: Whilst the dough is rising, clean as you go. No one wants a flour explosion in the kitchen, you know? Also, get your powdered sugar ready to go.

Beignet Boogie: step-by-step

Wake Up the Yeast: In warm milk, stir in yeast. Wait 5- 10 minutes . It should get all foamy and happy.
Wet Meets Dry: Mix melted butter, sugar, salt, vanilla, nutmeg, and lemon zest with the yeasty milk. Beat in the eggs.
Flour Power: Slowly mix in flour. Go until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead It: Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5- 7 minutes . It should be smooth and stretchy.
First Nap: Place dough in an oiled bowl. Cover. Let it rise for 1-1. 5 hours . It should double in size.
Roll and Cut: Punch down dough. Roll to ½-inch (1.25 cm) thick. Cut into 2 inch (5 cm) squares.
Second Nap (Very Important!): Place squares on parchment paper. Cover loosely. Rest for 30 minutes .
Fry Time: Heat oil to 350° F ( 175° C) . Fry beignets for 2- 3 minutes per side . They should be golden brown.

Pro Tips for Beignet Brilliance

Hot Oil, Not Too Hot: Keep the oil at a steady 350° F ( 175° C) . Too hot, and they burn on the outside before cooking through. Too cold, and they'll be greasy.
Don't Overcrowd: Fry just a few at a time. This keeps the oil temperature consistent.
make-ahead? You can make the Beignet dough recipe the night before. Just keep it in the fridge after the first rise.

Honestly, give it a go. The Easy French pastries are such a treat, and this Quick beignet recipe is super simple.

Who needs New Orleans beignets recipe when you can have fresh ones in your own kitchen? There are tons of Beignet variations .

You can customize the dough to your tastes. Serve this with Easy homemade beignets . That is where the magic will happen.

Enjoy your Fried dough recipe !

Recipe Notes for Your Perfect French Beignet Recipe

So, you're about to dive into making this French beignet recipe . Awesome! But before you do, let's chat about a few things.

I've made my fair share of these bad boys, and, honestly, a little heads-up goes a long way.

Serving Suggestions: Ooh La La!

Let’s talk presentation. Pile those Easy homemade beignets high on a plate. Think New Orleans beignets recipe meets art. Dust 'em with ALL the powdered sugar.

Seriously, you can't overdo it. Serve with a steaming cup of coffee, café au lait or some hot chocolate. You could even whip up a simple berry compote for dipping.

Honestly, a touch of fresh fruit cuts through the sweetness perfectly. Talk about heaven.

Storage Tips: If You Have Leftovers...

Okay, real talk. Beignets are best eaten fresh, straight from the fryer. BUT, if you do have leftovers, here’s the drill.

Store cooled beignets in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best within 24 hours . Honestly, they'll get a bit softer.

Freezing isn't really recommended. Reheating? A quick zap in the microwave or a few minutes in a warm oven will revive them a bit, though they won’t be quite as magical as when they were fresh.

Variations: Beignet Bliss, Your Way!

Want to mix things up? You can add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the beignet dough recipe for a warming spice.

Making them in the fall? Puree some pumpkin and mix it into the dough. BOOM! Autumnal beignets! For a dietary twist, try using gluten-free flour.

It works surprisingly well for Fried dough recipe . Just might need to adjust the liquid a tad. It makes for Easy French pastries !

Nutrition Basics: Just a Treat, Okay?

Look, let's be real. These aren't exactly health food. But they're delicious, and life's too short to skip treats. They contain calories, carbs, and a fair bit of sugar.

Key health benefit? They bring a smile to your face! Enjoy in moderation!

Making your French beignet recipe Easy beignet will be successful with a little practice. Don't be intimidated. Follow the tips, be patient with the dough, and enjoy the process.

Before you know it, you'll be chowing down on warm, sugary clouds of happiness. Honestly, there is nothing like a Quick beignet recipe to make you feel like you are in New Orleans even if you are in your own Kitchen.

Enjoy the Beignet variations you can create with the perfect base Beignet recipe with yeast .You got this! If you make Homemade donuts recipe this will be as easy as pie!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why aren't my beignets puffing up? They look a bit sad and flat!

Several factors could be at play! First, make sure your yeast is fresh and active. If it's old, it might not give you the rise you need. Also, ensure the oil temperature is correct (around 350°F / 175°C). If the oil is too cool, the beignets will absorb too much oil and won't puff up properly.

Finally, don't skip the second rise that 30-minute rest after cutting the dough is crucial for light and airy results. Think of it as their spa day before the big fry!

My French beignets are greasy. What am I doing wrong?

Greasy beignets are a common problem! Again, the oil temperature is key. If the oil is too low, the beignets will soak up the oil instead of cooking properly. Also, avoid overcrowding the pot when frying. Too many beignets at once will lower the oil temperature.

Finally, make sure to drain the beignets well on paper towels after frying to remove any excess oil, like blotting away those post fry tears!

Can I make the dough for this easy French beignet recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the day before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. This slow rise can actually enhance the flavor! Just be sure to punch it down gently in the morning and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling it out and cutting the beignets.

Think of it as giving the dough a nice, long rest before its starring role!

How do I store leftover beignets (if there are any!)?

Beignets are best enjoyed fresh, as they tend to lose their crispness over time. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They'll be good for a day or two, but be warned - they'll never be quite as amazing as they were fresh out of the fryer.

You can try reheating them briefly in a warm oven, but they may not regain their original texture.

Can I bake this French beignet recipe instead of frying them?

While you can technically bake them, they won't be true beignets. Baking will result in a breadier, less airy texture. If you're looking for a baked version, it's best to find a recipe specifically designed for baking. But honestly, frying is what gives beignets their signature taste and texture!

Think of it as the secret ingredient, like a dash of fairy dust.

I want to try a variation on this Easy beignet recipe. Any suggestions?

Oh, you're speaking my language! You can absolutely jazz up your beignets! Try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor. You could also experiment with different extracts, like almond or lemon, for a subtle twist.

And for a truly decadent treat, consider filling them with a pastry cream or Nutella after they've cooled slightly like adding a secret treasure to each delicious bite!