Vanilla French Beignets

If you’re looking for a delightful and indulgent treat to make at home, these Vanilla French Beignets are a perfect choice. Crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and dusted with powdered sugar, these beignets are a surefire way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to create these delectable goodies!

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm milk
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Prepare Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, active dry yeast, and salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the ingredients.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted unsalted butter, and pure vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring continuously until a dough forms. The dough should come together into a smooth and slightly sticky ball.
4. Knead the Dough:
   • Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes. The dough should become smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky.
5. First Rise:
   • Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size. This should take about 1.5 hours.
6. Shape the Beignets:
   • Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness. Cut the dough into 2×2 inch squares using a sharp knife or a dough cutter.
7. Heat the Oil:
   • In a deep fryer or a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil to 360°F (182°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil stays at the right temperature.
8. Fry the Beignets:
   • Carefully place a few pieces of dough into the hot oil, frying in batches. Fry each beignet for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the beignets from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
9. Serve:
   • While the beignets are still warm, dust them generously with powdered sugar. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful crunch and sweet flavor!

Recipe Notes:

• Prep Time: 2 hours
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
• Servings: 20 beignets
• Calories: 220 kcal per serving

These Vanilla French Beignets are a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a brunch, a family gathering, or just enjoying them with a cup of coffee, they are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try and bring a little bit of French pastry magic into your home!