Bring the charm of a classic French dessert to your table with these homemade beignets. Light, airy, and perfectly fried, these treats are dusted with powdered sugar for a sweet finish. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a decadent snack, they’re easy to make and irresistibly delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic French Flavor: These classic beignets deliver that bakery-quality taste.
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip these up in no time.
- Light and Airy: Deep-fried to golden perfection for the perfect texture.
- Customizable: Serve plain or fill with your favorite jam, custard, or chocolate.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for parties, holidays, or a cozy dessert at home.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a medium saucepan, combine the water, butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the butter is melted.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the flour all at once, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon until the dough forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the dough cool for 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Eggs
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. The dough will look lumpy at first but will become smooth and glossy as you mix.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot or skillet to 350°F (175°C).
Step 4: Fry the Beignets
- Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot.
- Fry each beignet for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and puffed.
- Remove the beignets with a slotted spoon and drain on a plate lined with paper towels.
Step 5: Serve
- Once cooled slightly, dust the beignets generously with powdered sugar. Serve warm and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 24 small beignets
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Filled Beignets: Pipe jam, custard, or chocolate into the center after frying.
- Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra flavor.
- Savory Option: Omit the sugar and fill with savory ingredients like cheese or ham.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve with chocolate ganache, caramel, or fruit sauces on the side.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Beignets are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked dough portions and fry directly from frozen.
- Reheating: Reheat beignets in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness.
FAQs
1. Can I use a deep fryer instead of a pot?
Yes, a deep fryer works perfectly and ensures consistent frying temperatures.
2. How do I ensure my beignets are light and airy?
Mix the dough thoroughly after adding the eggs, and maintain the oil temperature at 350°F for even frying.
3. Can I bake these instead of frying?
While traditional beignets are fried, you can bake them at 375°F for 20-25 minutes for a lighter option.
4. How do I prevent the dough from sticking to the spoon?
Lightly grease the spoon or scoop with oil before portioning the dough.
5. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 1 day. Bring to room temperature before frying.
6. What’s the best oil for frying beignets?
Vegetable oil or canola oil works best for frying due to their neutral flavor.
7. How do I know the oil is ready for frying?
Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the oil is 350°F. If you don’t have one, drop a small piece of dough in the oil—it should sizzle and rise to the surface.
8. Can I make larger beignets?
Yes, but adjust the frying time to ensure they cook through.
9. Why are my beignets greasy?
This happens if the oil is not hot enough. Ensure the oil temperature is consistent.
10. What can I serve with beignets?
Serve with coffee, hot chocolate, or a side of dipping sauces for a complete treat.
Conclusion
These Homemade French Beignets are a light, crispy, and sweet delight that brings a touch of French bakery magic to your kitchen. Perfect for any occasion, they’re easy to make and always a hit. Dust them generously with powdered sugar and enjoy them warm for the ultimate treat!
Print
Homemade French Beignets Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 beignets 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in the classic French dessert with these Homemade French Beignets! Light, airy, and deep-fried to perfection, these golden treats are dusted with powdered sugar for an irresistible finish. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or anytime snacking!
Ingredients
Refrigerated:
- 4 large eggs
Baking & Spices:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- 1/4 tsp salt
Oils & Vinegars:
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Dairy:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
Liquids:
- 1 cup water
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
- Boil Water and Butter:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine water, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil, stirring until the butter melts completely.
- Add Flour:
- Reduce the heat to low. Add the flour all at once and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Incorporate Eggs:
- Remove the pan from heat and let the dough cool for 5 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy.
Fry the Beignets:
- Heat the Oil:
- In a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C).
- Spoon the Dough:
- Using a small cookie scoop or two spoons, drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough into the hot oil. Fry in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and puffed (about 3–4 minutes per batch).
- Drain the Beignets:
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried beignets to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve:
- Dust with Powdered Sugar:
- Generously dust the warm beignets with powdered sugar before serving.
- Enjoy:
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For added flavor, drizzle the beignets with honey or serve with fruit preserves or chocolate sauce for dipping.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Reheat in a warm oven to crisp them back up.
- Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature to avoid greasy or undercooked beignets.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Deep-Fried
- Cuisine: French