The aroma of warm, sweet Vanilla French Beignets wafts through the air, wrapping you in a cozy embrace. Fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside, they are like little pillows of joyâperfectly dusted with powdered sugar that sparkles like edible fairy dust.

I still remember the first time I tasted these heavenly treats at a bustling cafĂŠ in New Orleans. The excitement of biting into that warm dough was pure blissâthe perfect balance of sweetness and nostalgia. Whether itâs a lazy Sunday brunch or a festive gathering, Vanilla French Beignets promise an irresistible flavor experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful recipe is easy to follow and perfect for beginners.
- With its fluffy texture and sweet vanilla flavor, it’s sure to impress your guests.
- You can customize the toppings to suit your taste preferences.
- These beignets make any occasion feel special and celebratory.
The first time I made these for my family, their delighted faces were pricelessâthey disappeared faster than I could say âbeignet.â
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Choose high-quality flour for the best texture; it forms the base of your beignets.
- Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness; adjust according to your taste preference.
- Baking Powder: Essential for that fluffy rise; fresh baking powder yields the best results.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all flavors; donât skip it!
- Whole Milk: Whole milk makes the dough rich and tender; trust me on this one!
- Eggs: Use large eggs; they bind everything together beautifully.
- Vanilla Extract: The star ingredient! Opt for real vanilla extract for an authentic flavor boost.
- Powdered Sugar: For dusting; itâs like giving your beignets a snowy hat!
- Vegetable Oil: For frying; make sure itâs deep enough to submerge those beauties!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Start by gathering all your ingredientsâthis step is crucial because you want everything within arm’s reach when inspiration strikes!
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until combined. This step ensures even distribution of flavors throughout your batter.
Create the Wet Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. You’ll love the sweet aroma wafting from this mixtureâit’s simply heavenly!
Combine Ingredients: Gradually fold the wet mixture into dry ingredients until just combined. Take care not to overmixâyour beignets will thank you later with their lovely texture.
Prepare for Frying: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer if you have oneâthis step is critical to achieve that perfect golden brown!
Scoop and Fry: Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, drop dollops of dough into hot oil. Fry until they puff up and turn golden brownâabout 2-3 minutes per side. Enjoy watching them dance in the oil!
Dust with Sugar: Once out of the oil and drained on paper towels, dust those beauties generously with powdered sugar while theyâre still warm. You want them to look as dreamy as they taste!
Now take a moment to bask in your culinary glory as you serve these fluffy nuggets of joy! Each bite will transport you straight to pastry paradise.
Enjoy sharing these delightful Vanilla French Beignets with family and friendsâthey’re sure to become a beloved tradition!
You Must Know
- Vanilla French Beignets are light, fluffy, and utterly irresistible.
- These delightful treats come alive with a dusting of powdered sugar and a hint of vanilla.
- The warm aroma wafting through your kitchen will make you the star of any brunch.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect Vanilla French Beignets, mix the dough first, let it rise, then fry until golden brown. Timing is everything; patience leads to fluffy goodness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your beignets. Add chocolate chips or citrus zest for a unique flavor twist that everyone will love.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover beignets in an airtight container at room temperature. Reheat them in a warm oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh yeast for the best rise and flavor in your beignets.
- When frying, maintain a consistent oil temperature at 350°F for even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give each beignet space to puff up beautifully!
Nothing beats that moment when my friends took their first bite of these fluffy Vanilla French Beignets and gasped in delight. Their smiles made all those flour-covered counters worth it!
FAQ
What can I substitute for vanilla in beignets?
You can use almond extract or lemon zest for a different flavor profile.
How long does the dough need to rise?
Let the dough rise for about one hour or until doubled in size.
Can I make beignet dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight and fry it fresh in the morning.

Vanilla French Beignets
- Author: Mery Mack
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in these fluffy Vanilla French Beignets, perfectly golden and dusted with powdered sugar. A delightful treat thatâs sure to impress at any gathering!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Drop spoonfuls of dough into the hot oil and fry for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove and drain on paper towels, then dust with powdered sugar while warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 beignet (45g)
- Calories: 135
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: For a flavor twist, consider adding chocolate chips or citrus zest to the dough. Make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate overnight for fresher beignets in the morning.