Vanilla French Beignets are soft, pillowy squares of fried dough infused with fragrant vanilla and generously dusted with powdered sugar. Crisp on the outside and light on the inside, these irresistible treats deliver bakery-quality results right in your own kitchen.
If you've ever wanted to recreate authentic café-style beignets at home, this Vanilla French Beignets recipe gives you a reliable, step-by-step method that ensures golden, airy perfection every time.
I still remember the first time I tasted a warm beignet fresh from the fryer. The outside crackled slightly under the powdered sugar, while the inside stayed soft and fluffy. That contrast is what makes Vanilla French Beignets so special. Adding pure vanilla extract deepens the flavor and elevates this classic French pastry into something truly indulgent.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a large bowl.
- Whisk warm milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract together.
- Gradually mix wet ingredients into dry until dough forms.
- Knead dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover and let dough rise for 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
- Roll dough to 1/4 inch thick and cut into 2×2 inch squares.
- Heat oil to 360°F and fry beignets 1-2 minutes per side until golden.
- Drain and dust generously with powdered sugar. Serve warm.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Why You'll Love Vanilla French Beignets
Light, Airy, and Perfectly Sweet
Vanilla French Beignets strike the perfect balance between delicacy and richness. The yeast creates a soft interior, while frying forms a beautifully crisp exterior. Meanwhile, vanilla adds warmth and aromatic depth that enhances the dough's natural sweetness.
Because they're fried quickly at high heat, the centers remain tender and fluffy rather than greasy.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Serve Vanilla French Beignets for:
- Weekend brunch
- Holiday mornings
- Mardi Gras celebrations
- Dessert platters
- Afternoon coffee breaks
They pair beautifully with café au lait, hot chocolate, or even a simple cup of black coffee.
Ingredients for Vanilla French Beignets
You only need simple pantry staples:
- All-purpose flour
- Granulated sugar
- Active dry yeast
- Salt
- Warm milk
- Unsalted butter
- Pure vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Each ingredient plays a specific role. Yeast creates rise and airy structure. Sugar tenderizes the dough. Milk and butter add richness. Vanilla infuses warmth and aroma.
Using high-quality vanilla extract makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
How to Make Vanilla French Beignets
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Stir well to evenly distribute the yeast.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
Whisk warm milk (about 110°F), melted butter, and vanilla extract together. The milk should feel warm but not hot.
Step 3: Form the Dough
Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients while stirring until a dough forms.
Step 4: Knead
Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Proper kneading ensures your Vanilla French Beignets develop structure while staying soft.
Step 5: First Rise
Place dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1½ hours or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Shape
Punch down the dough and roll it to ¼-inch thickness. Cut into 2×2-inch squares.
Step 7: Fry
Heat oil to 360°F. Fry beignets in batches for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown.
Avoid overcrowding the pot. Maintaining oil temperature ensures even cooking.
Step 8: Dust and Serve
Drain on paper towels, then generously dust with powdered sugar while still warm.
Serve immediately for the best texture.
Expert Tips for Perfect Vanilla French Beignets
Maintain Oil Temperature
If oil is too hot, the outside burns before the inside cooks. If too cool, beignets absorb excess oil. Keep oil steady at 360°F.
Don't Skip Proper Proofing
Allow the dough to fully double in size. Under-proofed dough produces dense beignets.
Roll Evenly
An even ¼-inch thickness ensures uniform cooking and proper puffing.
Flavor Variations
Although classic Vanilla French Beignets are hard to beat, you can customize them:
- Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough
- Fold in mini chocolate chips
- Incorporate citrus zest
- Toss in cinnamon sugar instead of powdered sugar
- Serve with chocolate or caramel sauce
Each variation gives your Vanilla French Beignets a personalized twist.
Storage and Reheating
Room Temperature
Store cooled beignets in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheat in Oven
Warm at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore crispness.
Air Fryer Option
Reheat at 300°F for 2-3 minutes for a quick refresh.
Avoid microwaving, as it can make them rubbery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes. Refrigerate overnight and allow it to return to room temperature before rolling.
Can I bake instead of fry?
You can bake at 375°F for about 10 minutes, but the texture will differ from traditional fried Vanilla French Beignets.
What if I don't have a thermometer?
Dip the handle of a wooden spoon into the oil. If bubbles form around it, the oil is close to frying temperature.
Why didn't my beignets puff up?
The yeast may be inactive, or the oil temperature may have been too low.
Can I freeze beignets?
Yes. Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
Conclusion
Vanilla French Beignets combine simple ingredients with classic technique to create a bakery-style treat that feels both elegant and comforting. With their crisp exterior, soft interior, and fragrant vanilla flavor, these beignets easily become the highlight of any brunch or dessert table.
Once you master this Vanilla French Beignets recipe, you'll find yourself making them again and again.
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