Authentic French Beignets Recipe
Light, fluffy, and dusted with powdered sugar, these authentic French beignets bring a taste of Parisian café culture into your home. Easy to make and perfect for breakfast or dessert, this classic fried dough recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- ¼ tsp Active dry yeast Make sure it's fresh
- 1 cup Warm water About 110°F 43°C
- ¼ cup Granulated sugar Helps activate yeast
- 2 tbsp Unsalted butter Melted
- ½ tsp Salt Enhances flavor
- 1 Egg Beaten
- ½ cup Whole milk Warmed
- 3 ½ cups All-purpose flour Sifted
- For dusting Powdered sugar Use generously after frying
- For frying Vegetable oil Canola or sunflower recommended
Instructions
- In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add sugar and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix in melted butter, salt, egg, and milk. Gradually stir in flour until a sticky dough forms.
- Transfer dough to a floured surface. Knead for 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
- Roll out dough to ¼ inch thick. Cut into 2-inch squares.
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 360°F (182°C). Fry beignets in batches for 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Dust with powdered sugar while still warm and serve immediately.
Notes
- Make sure your yeast is active for the best rise. If it doesn't foam in the first step, start over.
- Beignets are best served warm and fresh but can be stored in an airtight container and reheated briefly in the oven.
- For flavor variation, consider adding a dash of vanilla extract or cinnamon to the dough.