Soft and Fluffy Beignets

Soft and Fluffy Beignets

Indulge in the magic of New Orleans without leaving your kitchen!

These Soft and Fluffy Beignets with Powdered Sugar are like little pillows of happiness, melting in your mouth with every bite.

Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert, they’re crispy on the outside, cloud-like on the inside, and dusted generously with sweet powdered sugar.

Whether you’re craving a cozy treat or hosting friends for coffee hour, these beignets will have everyone swooning over your baking skills (even if it’s your first try).

How to Make It

Note: This is an overview. See recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by warming up some milk and activating yeast—this is what gives our beignets their signature fluffiness. Combine the warm milk mixture with flour, sugar, eggs, and butter in a mixing bowl. Knead until smooth and elastic. Let the dough rise until doubled in size—it should look all puffed up and ready to party!

Step 2: Shape Your Beignet Squares
Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Roll it out into a rectangle about ½-inch thick. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the dough into squares—no need for perfection here; rustic charm works wonders!

Step 3: Fry ‘Em Up
Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot—you want it hot but not scorching (around 350°F). Carefully drop the dough squares into the oil, frying them in batches so they don’t stick together. Flip once golden brown on one side, then let the other side catch that same golden glow. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Dust with Love
Now comes the fun part! While still warm, toss those fried beauties in a generous snowfall of powdered sugar. Shake off excess, plate ‘em up, and watch as everyone dives in faster than you can say “beignet.”

Pro Tips

• Use a thermometer: Keeping your oil at the right temperature ensures perfectly cooked beignets—crispy outside, fluffy inside.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in small batches to prevent sticking and uneven cooking.
• Work quickly with the dough: Once rolled and cut, fry immediately to keep the texture light and airy.
• Double-dust the sugar: For extra sweetness, sprinkle more powdered sugar after plating.
• Serve fresh: Beignets are best enjoyed straight out of the fryer while they’re still warm and pillowy.

Storage

• Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Note: They may lose crispiness over time.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked dough squares on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to cook through.
• Reheating: Pop leftover beignets in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes to revive their crispness.

Soft and Fluffy Beignets

Cooking Method: Frying Cuisine: American Favorites Courses: Desserts

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 10 mins Rest Time 1 hr Total Time 1 hr 30 mins

Servings: 8 Calories: 180

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Dietary:

Vegetarian

Description

These Soft and Fluffy Beignets with Powdered Sugar bring the charm of New Orleans to your table. Crispy edges give way to impossibly soft centers, all finished with a delicate dusting of powdered sugar. Easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough for special occasions, this recipe is pure joy in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 1 cup whole milk, warmed (about 110°F)
• 2 ¹⁄₄ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• ¹⁄₄ cup granulated sugar, divided
• 2 large eggs
• ¹⁄₄ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
• 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• ¹⁄₂ tsp salt
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 1 cup powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast:

   In a small bowl, combine the warmed milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.

2. Make the Dough:

   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar, eggs, and melted butter. Add the yeast mixture and stir to combine. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.

3. Knead and Rise:

   Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

4. Shape the Beignets:

   Punch down the dough and roll it out to ½-inch thickness. Cut into 2-inch squares using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.

5. Fry the Beignets:

   Heat 2–3 inches of oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F. Fry the dough squares in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, flipping when golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

6. Add the Finishing Touch:

   Toss the warm beignets in powdered sugar until fully coated. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 180kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 7g11%

Total Carbohydrate 25g9%

Dietary Fiber 1g4%

Sugars 9g

Protein 4g8%

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* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

• Yeast Activation: Ensure the milk isn’t too hot, or it might kill the yeast. Aim for lukewarm.
• Oil Temperature: Use a candy thermometer to monitor the oil temperature closely.
• Flour Consistency: If the dough feels sticky, add a bit more flour—but avoid over-flouring, which can make the beignets dense.

These values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used. Always check your ingredient labels for precise nutrition details.

Keywords: Beignets, Powdered Sugar, Fried Dough, French Donuts, Dessert