Desserts

Vanilla French Beignets

Name: Vanilla French Beignets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 eggs; 1 cup milk; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; Oil for frying; Powdered sugar for dusting

Chef Olivia

December 13, 2025
4 min read

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why make this recipe

Vanilla French Beignets are quick and fun to make. They give you warm, soft dough with a sweet vanilla taste. You can make them for breakfast, snack, or a simple dessert. They are small and shareable. They also pair well with savory dishes, such as French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole, for a full meal.

introduction

Beignets are light fried dough pieces. This version uses baking powder and vanilla. You make a simple batter, fry it, and dust with powdered sugar. The result is soft and slightly crisp beignets that melt in your mouth.

how to make Vanilla French Beignets

Mix dry and wet parts, then fry small spoonfuls in hot oil. Do not overmix the batter — it should be a bit lumpy. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) so the outside browns and the inside cooks through. Fry a few at a time so the oil keeps its heat. Drain on paper towels, then dust with powdered sugar while warm.

Ingredients :

2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 2 eggs, 1 cup milk, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, Oil for frying, Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions :

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, beat the eggs and then mix in the milk and vanilla extract.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and add the melted butter. Mix until just combined.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.
Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

how to serve Vanilla French Beignets

Serve beignets warm. Dust them with extra powdered sugar. You can add jam or chocolate sauce on the side. For a brunch idea, serve them with something sweet like Pumpkin French Toast and fresh fruit. They also go well with coffee or tea.

how to store Vanilla French Beignets

Let the beignets cool completely. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a tray, then move to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in a hot oven for a few minutes to bring back crispness.

tips to make Vanilla French Beignets

Do not overmix the batter. Mix until just combined.
Keep oil at 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer if you can.
Fry a few pieces at once to keep the oil hot.
Use a slotted spoon to remove beignets and drain well.
Dust with powdered sugar while warm for best taste.

variation (if any)

Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the batter.
Fold in a little lemon or orange zest for bright flavor.
Fill fried beignets with jam or custard using a piping bag.
Dip in chocolate or make a simple glaze instead of powdered sugar.

FAQs

Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: You can bake them, but they will not be the same. Frying gives the classic crisp outside and soft inside.

Q: Can I make the batter ahead of time?
A: You can mix the batter and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 hours. Bring it back toward room temperature before frying.

Q: Why use baking powder and not yeast?
A: Baking powder makes a quick batter and gives a light texture. Yeast needs more time to rise.

Q: How do I know the oil is hot enough?
A: Use a thermometer and aim for 350°F (175°C). If you do not have a thermometer, drop a small bit of batter in the oil; it should sizzle and rise quickly.

Q: Can I use other flours?
A: All-purpose flour works best. If you try other flours, expect changes in texture and frying behavior.