Busy moms, I get it. You want a sweet treat that feels special but does not take all afternoon. Vanilla French Beignets give you just that: pillowy fried dough dusted in powdered sugar that kids love and adults swoon over.
These come together with simple pantry staples and a quick fry. If you like easy weekend brunches or a fun dessert after dinner, this recipe fits the bill. For more friench-inspired recipes, check out Crock-Pot French Dip Sandwiches for an easy family meal idea.
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This Vanilla French Beignets Recipe
This recipe keeps things simple. The batter mixes in one bowl and you fry spoonfuls straight away. No complicated rising, no special equipment, and no long wait.
Kids enjoy the hands-on part of dusting the beignets with powdered sugar. You can make them for a quick dessert, a special breakfast, or an after-school snack.
Prep time stays short and cleanup stays manageable. The result feels fancy without the fuss, which works great for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
How to Make It
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 2 large eggs, 1 cup whole milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, Vegetable oil for frying, Powdered sugar for dusting
Directions
- In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt., 2. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla., 3. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed., 4. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C)., 5. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes each side., 6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels., 7. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm.
Vanilla French Beignets
Pillowy fried dough dusted in powdered sugar, perfect for a sweet treat any time of the day.
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
- 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 on each side.
- Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
- Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm.
Notes
Serve beignets warm and let kids sprinkle powdered sugar themselves for fun. Store in an airtight container for up to one day at room temperature, or refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a warm oven.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
How to Serve Vanilla French Beignets
Serve beignets warm for the best texture. Put them on a platter and let kids sprinkle powdered sugar themselves for a little activity.
Pair them with fresh fruit, a bowl of yogurt, or a simple hot chocolate for chilly mornings. For a weekend brunch, plate them alongside scrambled eggs or a simple frittata.
If you want to serve them as an after-dinner treat, add a small ramekin of chocolate sauce or jam for dipping.
How to Store
Let beignets cool completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day.
If you need to keep them longer, store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a warm oven at 300°F for 5 to 7 minutes to bring back some crispness. Avoid microwaving for long, which makes them soggy.
You can also freeze cooled beignets in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in a 325°F oven until warm.
Tips and Variations
Use a slotted spoon to remove beignets from the oil so excess oil drains away. Keep a plate lined with paper towels nearby to catch drips.
If the batter seems thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until it drops easily from a spoon. Do not overmix the batter. Small lumps are fine.
For a flavor twist, add a pinch of cinnamon to the powdered sugar or fold a little lemon zest into the batter. For a savory change, serve with a small bowl of warm caramelized onion dip on the side.
FAQs
Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: You can try baking, but frying gives the classic puff and crisp. If you bake, expect a different texture.
Q: Can I use milk other than whole milk?
A: Yes. You can use 2% or even a milk alternative, but whole milk gives a richer flavor.
Q: How do I keep beignets warm for serving?
A: Place cooked beignets on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven for up to 15 minutes while you finish frying the rest.
Conclusion
Give these Vanilla French Beignets a try when you want something sweet that feels special but stays simple. They work for weekend mornings, family desserts, or a quick afternoon treat. Save this recipe and come back to it when you want a little easy magic for your family.
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