New Orleans-Style Beignets
These easy New Orleans-style beignets will transport you right to the French Quarter. Fluffy, sweet, and covered in powdered sugar, these delightful pastries are perfect for breakfast or dessert. Their rich history and unique flavor make them a wonderful treat for any occasion, from brunch with friends to festive gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for home bakers of all skill levels.
- Delicious Flavor: The warm, fluffy texture combined with the sweetness of powdered sugar creates an irresistible treat that everyone will love.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy breakfast at home or a festive celebration, these beignets fit right in.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe by adding flavors like vanilla or cinnamon to suit your taste.
- Impressive Presentation: These beignets look as great as they taste, making them a show-stopping addition to any table.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the delicious world of New Orleans-style beignets, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large microwave-safe bowl
- Wooden spoon or sturdy spatula
- Rolling pin
- Pizza cutter or sharp knife
- Deep-fry thermometer
- Large Dutch oven
- Fine-mesh strainer
Importance of Each Tool
- Deep-fry thermometer: Ensures your oil is at the perfect temperature for frying, resulting in golden-brown beignets.
- Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dough evenly to achieve the ideal thickness for cutting.
- Fine-mesh strainer: Allows you to dust the finished beignets with powdered sugar without clumping.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 3/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, very soft
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, divided, plus more for kneading and cutting
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
For Frying and Serving
- 1 quart peanut or vegetable oil, plus more for the bowl
- 1 cup powdered sugar
How to Make New Orleans-Style Beignets
Step 1: Prepare the Milk Mixture
Place 3/4 cup water and 1/2 cup whole milk in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 1 1/2 minutes on full power. Alternatively, warm in a small saucepan over medium heat for about 1 minute. The mixture should be warm but cooler than 100°F.
Step 2: Activate the Yeast
Whisk in 1/3 cup granulated sugar into the milk mixture. Then sprinkle with 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast. Set aside for 15 minutes until foamy.
Step 3: Mix in Other Ingredients
Add 1 large beaten egg, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 2 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, and 2 cups flour to the milk mixture. Beat with a wooden spoon until thick but smooth. Add remaining flour (1 1/2 cups) and mix until just combined.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Dust a work surface with about 1/4 cup flour and dump dough onto it. Gently fold dough over itself 3 to 4 times (it will be sticky). Shape into a round and place in an oiled bowl. Cover with a kitchen towel.
Step 5: Let It Rise
Set the bowl in a warm place to rise until doubled in size (about 1 1/2 to 2 hours). Alternatively, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (8 to10 hours).
Step 6: Heat Oil
Heat 1 quart of peanut or vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven fitted with a deep-fry thermometer over medium-high heat until it reaches about 370ºF. Line a baking sheet with paper towels.
Step 7: Roll Out Dough
While oil heats, dust work surface with another 1/4 cup flour. Roll dough out into a rectangle (17×11 inches) that’s about 1/4-inch thick. Cut into squares using a pizza cutter or knife (20 to22 pieces).
Step 8: Fry Beignets
Gently add several squares of dough into the hot oil at once (3 to4 pieces). Use a heatproof spoon to ladle hot oil over them while frying. Cook each side until golden brown (about 1-2 minutes per side).
Step 9: Drain Excess Oil
Transfer fried beignets onto prepared baking sheet lined with paper towels. Repeat frying with remaining dough squares.
Step 10: Dust with Sugar
Just before serving while still warm, use a fine-mesh strainer to generously dust each beignet with powdered sugar. Enjoy your New Orleans-style beignets!
How to Serve New Orleans-Style Beignets
New Orleans-style beignets are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack. Here are some tasty serving suggestions to enhance your beignet experience.
Classic Café au Lait
- Pair your beignets with a warm cup of café au lait, a delicious blend of coffee and steamed milk that complements the sweetness of the beignets perfectly.
Fresh Fruit Compote
- Serve alongside a fresh fruit compote made from seasonal fruits. The tangy flavors will balance the sweetness of the beignets nicely.
Whipped Cream
- Top your beignets with homemade whipped cream for an indulgent treat. The lightness of the cream pairs well with the airy texture of the beignets.
Chocolate Sauce
- Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over your beignets for a decadent dessert option. This rich addition will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ice Cream
- Enjoy your beignets with a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream. The cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, fluffy beignets.
How to Perfect New Orleans-Style Beignets
To achieve the perfect New Orleans-style beignets, follow these essential tips to ensure they turn out fluffy and delicious every time.
- Use fresh yeast: Ensure your active dry yeast is fresh for optimal rise and fluffiness in your dough.
- Warm environment: Allow the dough to rise in a warm place to encourage fermentation, which helps develop flavor and texture.
- Avoid overcrowding: Fry only a few beignets at a time to maintain oil temperature and ensure they cook evenly without becoming greasy.
- Dust generously: Don’t skimp on powdered sugar; generous dusting just before serving makes them look appealing and adds sweetness.
- Serve immediately: For the best experience, serve your beignets hot and fresh to enjoy their light, airy texture.
Best Side Dishes for New Orleans-Style Beignets
New Orleans-style beignets can shine even brighter when served with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:
- Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of crispy bacon balances the sweetness of the beignets perfectly, making it an ideal companion.
- Savory Grits: Creamy cheddar grits provide a hearty side that contrasts beautifully with the lightness of the beignets.
- Eggs Benedict: This classic dish adds richness and depth, making for an indulgent brunch spread alongside sweet treats.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate and add brightness to your meal without overpowering the main attraction.
- Sausage Links: Savory sausage links offer a satisfying bite that complements the sweet taste of beignets wonderfully.
- Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns bring texture and heartiness, creating an excellent contrast with soft, fluffy beignets.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making New Orleans-style beignets, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you succeed.
- Incorrect yeast activation: Always ensure your water and milk mixture is warm but not too hot. If it’s over 100°F, it can kill the yeast.
- Not enough flour: Adding insufficient flour can lead to sticky dough. Measure accurately and use additional flour for dusting while kneading.
- Skipping the rising time: Allowing the dough to rise properly is essential for fluffy beignets. Don’t rush this step; it should double in size.
- Overcrowding the fryer: Frying too many beignets at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in greasy pastries. Fry in small batches for best results.
- Not dusting with powdered sugar: Beignets are best when generously coated with powdered sugar just before serving. Don’t skip this final touch!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing New Orleans-Style Beignets
- Freeze un-fried dough pieces on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Alternatively, freeze fried beignets after cooling, stored in an airtight container.
Reheating New Orleans-Style Beignets
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for 5-7 minutes until warm and crisp.
- Microwave: Heat individually on a plate for about 10-15 seconds; be cautious as they may become soft.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making New Orleans-style beignets.
What makes New Orleans-Style Beignets special?
New Orleans-style beignets are unique due to their light, airy texture and generous coating of powdered sugar. They embody the charm of Crescent City cuisine.
Can I make New Orleans-Style Beignets ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator overnight or freeze it for later use. Just allow extra time for rising.
How do I ensure my New Orleans-Style Beignets are fluffy?
Properly activating your yeast and allowing adequate rising time are key factors in achieving that fluffy texture.
What type of oil works best for frying New Orleans-Style Beignets?
Peanut oil or vegetable oil is recommended due to their high smoke points and neutral flavors, ensuring perfect frying without overpowering taste.
Final Thoughts
New Orleans-style beignets are delightful treats that bring joy with each bite. Their versatility allows for various toppings beyond powdered sugar, such as chocolate or fruit sauces. Try these amazing pastries today and experience that comforting taste of New Orleans!
New Orleans-Style Beignets
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of making New Orleans-style beignets, a treat that captures the essence of the French Quarter. These light and fluffy pastries, dusted generously with powdered sugar, are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack. Their rich history and unique flavor make them a must-try for any dessert lover. With a simple recipe that uses easily accessible ingredients, you can enjoy these airy pastries at home. Whether served with café au lait or drizzled with chocolate sauce, these beignets promise to transport your taste buds straight to New Orleans.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (very soft)
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 quart peanut or vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Warm the water and milk in a microwave-safe bowl until just warm (not over 100°F). Stir in sugar and yeast; let sit for 15 minutes until foamy.
- Mix in beaten egg, salt, softened butter, and 2 cups of flour until smooth. Gradually add remaining flour until combined.
- Dust a work surface with flour and turn out dough. Fold gently and shape into a round; place in an oiled bowl covered with a towel.
- Let rise in a warm area for about 1.5 to 2 hours until doubled in size.
- Heat oil in a Dutch oven to about 370°F while rolling out the dough to a rectangle (17×11 inches) about 1/4 inch thick; cut into squares.
- Fry beignets in batches until golden brown on both sides (about 1-2 minutes each). Drain on paper towels and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
