Beignets
Beignets are a classic French pastry that has become a beloved treat around the world. These pillowy, deep-fried doughnuts are light, airy, and irresistibly delicious. Dusted with powdered sugar, they make for a delightful indulgence that is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or anytime you’re craving something sweet.
Reason to Try Beignets
Beignets are a delightful indulgence that is sure to bring joy to anyone who tries them. Whether you’re a fan of classic French pastries or simply love the idea of sinking your teeth into a warm, fluffy doughnut, Beignets are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. With their crispy exterior and soft, pillowy interior, they are a treat that is impossible to resist.
Summary of Ingredients
- Warm milk
- Instant dry yeast
- White granulated sugar
- Salt
- Salted butter
- Large egg
- All-purpose flour
- Vegetable oil
- Powdered sugar
Serving Suggestions
Beignets are best enjoyed warm, straight from the fryer, and dusted generously with powdered sugar. Serve them alongside a hot cup of coffee or your favorite hot beverage for a truly indulgent experience. They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat any time of day.
Storage Info
Beignets are best enjoyed fresh and are not typically suitable for storing due to their delicate texture. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. Reheat them in the oven or toaster oven for a few minutes before serving to restore their crispiness.
Techniques or Tips
- When working with the dough, be sure to knead it until it is soft and tacky but not sticky. Add more flour as needed to achieve the right consistency.
- Be sure to let the dough rise until double in size to ensure light and airy beignets.
- Fry the beignets in batches and avoid overcrowding the pot to ensure even cooking and a crisp exterior.
- Dust the beignets with powdered sugar while they are still warm to allow the sugar to adhere and create a sweet, delicious coating.
Variation
For a twist on the classic recipe, you can add a hint of flavor to the dough by incorporating ingredients such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract. You can also fill the beignets with your favorite jam, chocolate spread, or pastry cream for an extra indulgent treat.
FAQs about Beignets
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time and fry later?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Simply let it come to room temperature before frying the beignets.
Q: Can I bake the beignets instead of frying them?
A: While traditional beignets are deep-fried for a crispy exterior, you can try baking them in the oven for a healthier alternative. However, they may not have the same texture and flavor as fried beignets.
Q: Can I freeze leftover beignets?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftover beignets in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat them in the oven until warmed through before serving.
Beignets
Equipment
- - Stand mixer with dough hook attachment
- - Pot for frying
- - Baking rack or paper towel-lined baking sheet
Ingredients
- - 1 cup warm milk
- - 1 tablespoon instant dry yeast
- - 2 tablespoons white granulated sugar
- - 1 teaspoon salt
- - 3 tablespoons salted butter softened
- - 1 large egg
- - 3 cups all-purpose flour
- - 2 quarts vegetable oil
- - 3 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine warm milk, yeast, sugar, salt, butter, and egg. Add flour. Use a dough hook and mix on low speed.
- Increase speed to medium as flour incorporates into dough. Add more flour if needed until dough is soft and tacky, but not sticky.
- Transfer dough to a lightly greased mixing bowl. Cover with a towel and let rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Pour enough vegetable oil into a pot to cover with 2 inches of oil. Heat to 350°F (175°C).
- Divide dough into 2 even pieces for easier handling. Roll each piece into an oblong shape.
- Using a pizza cutter or knife, cut dough into about 16 pieces. Dust with flour and set aside or place directly into hot oil.
- Fry beignets for about 90 seconds on each side or until deep golden. Remove from oil and drain on a baking rack or paper towel-lined sheet.
- Work in batches, frying only a few at a time to prevent crowding and maintain oil temperature.
- Dust warm beignets with powdered sugar either by sprinkling or dipping into a bowl of powdered sugar.
- Serve and enjoy!
