French Beignets Recipe

Transport yourself to the streets of Paris with these classic French Beignets! Light and fluffy pillows of dough are deep-fried to golden perfection and dusted with powdered sugar for an indulgent treat. Perfect with a cup of coffee or as a sweet snack, these beignets bring a touch of Parisian charm to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple ingredients that come together for an impressive pastry.
• Light and airy texture with just the right amount of sweetness.
• Quick to prepare—ready in just 35 minutes!
• Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon treat.
• Brings a taste of Parisian cafes to your home.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough

• In a medium saucepan, combine water, butter, salt, and granulated sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
• Remove from heat and stir in the flour until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.

2. Incorporate the Eggs

• Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat in the eggs one at a time. Mix until the dough is smooth and glossy.

3. Heat the Oil

• Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 375°F (190°C).

4. Fry the Beignets

• Drop spoonfuls of dough into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
• Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the beignets are golden brown and puffed up.

5. Drain and Dust

• Remove the beignets from the oil and drain them on paper towels.
• Dust the warm beignets generously with powdered sugar before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: Makes about 24 beignets
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Cinnamon Sugar Beignets: Dust the beignets with a mix of powdered sugar and cinnamon for a spiced twist.
• Filled Beignets: Pipe pastry cream, Nutella, or jam into the cooled beignets for an extra indulgence.
• Savory Beignets: Omit the sugar and add cheese or herbs for a savory version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free treat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover beignets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bring to room temperature before frying.

What type of oil is best for frying?

Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil work well for frying beignets.

How do I know if the oil is at the right temperature?

Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches 375°F (190°C). If you don’t have one, drop a small piece of dough into the oil—it should sizzle and rise to the surface quickly.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

While frying is traditional, you can bake beignets at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, though they won’t have the same crispiness.

Can I freeze beignets?

Fry the beignets, let them cool, and freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness.

What can I serve with beignets?

Enjoy them with coffee, hot chocolate, or a side of whipped cream or fruit jam.

Can I use self-rising flour?

No, self-rising flour is not recommended as it may alter the texture and rise of the dough.

Why are my beignets not puffing up?

The oil may not be hot enough, or the dough may not be properly aerated. Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature and mix the dough thoroughly.

How do I make them less sweet?

Reduce the powdered sugar topping or omit it altogether for a less sweet version.

What’s the difference between beignets and donuts?

Beignets are typically square and have a lighter, airier texture compared to the denser, ring-shaped donut.

Conclusion

French Beignets are the perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth while adding a touch of Parisian flair to your day. Light, fluffy, and dusted with powdered sugar, they’re a delight for any occasion. Try them today and savor the magic of this timeless pastry!

Print