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Beignets

Pillowy fried pastries dusted generously with powdered sugar. These iconic New Orleans treats are crispy outside, tender inside, and best served warm with chicory coffee or hot chocolate.

50 minMediumServes 12180 cal/serving

CajunDessertStovetopVegetarian

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Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 4 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted, melted
  • 4 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Whisk together 3 cups all-purpose flour, 4 tbsp granulated sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt in a large bowl.

  2. 2

    In another bowl, beat 2 eggs with 1/2 cup whole milk and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract until combined.

  3. 3

    Stir in 2 tbsp butter, melted.

  4. 4

    Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Do not overmix.

  5. 5

    On a floured surface, roll out dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.

  6. 6

    Cut into 3-inch squares using a knife or pastry cutter.

  7. 7

    Heat 4 cups vegetable oil (for frying) in a deep heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 375°F.

  8. 8

    Carefully place 2-3 beignet squares into the hot oil, keeping space between them. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown and puffed.

  9. 9

    Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

  10. 10

    While still warm, dust generously with 1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting).

  11. 11

    Serve warm with hot chicory coffee or hot chocolate.

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Questions

What is Beignets?

Pillowy fried pastries dusted generously with powdered sugar. These iconic New Orleans treats are crispy outside, tender inside, and best served warm with chicory coffee or hot chocolate. This reference files it under Cajun dessert: made on the stovetop, rated medium and about 50 minutes start to finish.

How hot should the oil be for Beignets?

For Beignets, the frying oil is held at 375 F (about 190 C) in step 7. Hotter scorches the outside before the inside cooks, and cooler turns it greasy.

Why does Beignets say not to overmix?

Stirring develops gluten, and gluten makes quick batters tough and tunneled. Stop at step 4 while a few streaks of flour remain; they hydrate on their own.

What can I use instead of powdered sugar in Beignets?

The entry for Beignets calls for 1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting). In its place: Blend granulated sugar with a teaspoon of cornstarch per cup until fine.

Does Beignets contain eggs?

Yes: 2 eggs. The full allergen list for this entry is gluten, dairy and eggs. Packaged ingredients vary by brand, so check labels if the allergy is serious.

How do I store and reheat Beignets?

Fried dough is at its best within the hour. Leftover Beignets keeps a day at room temperature, loosely covered; a few minutes in a 350 F oven or an air fryer brings back some of the crispness. The refrigerator only makes it tough.

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