Classic New Orleans Beignets

Name: Classic New Orleans Beignets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: New Orleans
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 3/4 cup whole milk; 2 large eggs; Vegetable oil (for frying); Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Published: February 26, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These classic New Orleans beignets are incredibly easy to prepare with just a few simple ingredients
Their fluffy texture and sweet flavor profile make them irresistible
Visually stunning with their cloud-like appearance and powdered sugar coating, they become the star of any breakfast table
These treats are versatile; enjoy them for breakfast or as a delightful dessert anytime!

One time I made these beignets for a brunch gathering and let me tell you – my friends declared me the “Beignet Queen” that day!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for the best texture; it helps create that lovely soft interior.
Granulated Sugar: Just a touch to sweeten the dough; it balances perfectly with the powdered sugar later on.
Baking Powder: This is essential for achieving that light and airy structure we all adore in our beignets.
Salt: A pinch goes a long way; it enhances all the flavors beautifully without being overpowering.
Milk: Whole milk works best here; it adds richness and moisture to our delicious dough.
Eggs: Fresh eggs provide binding and help give structure to our fluffy treats.
Vegetable Oil: For frying; choose an oil with a high smoke point for crispy results.
Powdered Sugar: A generous dusting at the end is necessary; it’s what transforms these delights into pure bliss!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This creates the perfect base for our delightful dough.

Add Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix milk and eggs until smooth. Gradually combine this mixture with dry ingredients until just incorporated—don’t overmix; we want those airy pockets!

Knead Gently: Turn out the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently for about 30 seconds until smooth. Feel free to channel your inner baker – confidence is key here!

Chill Out: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap or cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour—this step enhances flavor and makes rolling easier.

Fry Away: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Cut chilled dough into squares or circles and carefully drop them into hot oil—fry until golden brown.

Dust with Sugar: Once they’re out of the oil, place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil before giving them a generous dusting of powdered sugar. This is where they become truly magical!

Enjoy these classic New Orleans beignets fresh out of the fryer – trust me; no one can resist their fluffy charm!

You Must Know

Classic New Orleans Beignets are light, fluffy treats that transport you straight to the French Quarter
The sweet aroma wafting from the kitchen is enough to make anyone weak at the knees
Remember, these delightful pastries are best enjoyed fresh and covered in powdered sugar for that perfect finish

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing the dough and letting it rise until it doubles in size, around two hours. As it rises, prepare your frying oil to ensure perfect golden beignets.

Add Your Touch

Try adding a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra flavor. You can also experiment with flavored sugars after frying for a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Beignets are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days. To reheat, pop them in a toaster oven at 350°F for a few minutes.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use high-quality flour for better texture in your beignets
Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying; otherwise, they’ll absorb too much grease
Always dust with powdered sugar just before serving to keep it fluffy and light

There’s nothing quite like the first time I made beignets; my friends devoured them in seconds, leaving me wondering if I’d ever get a bite!

FAQ

How do I know when my beignet dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size and feel airy when gently poked.

Can I use a different type of flour for beignets?

Yes, but all-purpose flour gives the best texture and flavor you want.

What’s the best way to serve classic New Orleans beignets?

Serve them warm with a generous dusting of powdered sugar and coffee on the side.

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📖 Recipe Card