Name: Delicious Vanilla French Beignets: 12 Perfectly Fried Treats
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 cup warm milk (110°F); 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; Vegetable oil, for frying; Powdered sugar, for dusting

Vanilla French Beignets are the ultimate indulgence, offering a delightful blend of light, airy textures with a rich vanilla flavor. Perfectly golden and dusted with powdered sugar, these sweet French pastries are a treat for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy afternoon snack. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to enjoy with your morning coffee, mastering the art of homemade vanilla beignets is easier than you think!

Why You’ll Love This Vanilla French Beignets

These vanilla beignets are not just delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Here are a few reasons to try this soft vanilla beignets recipe:

They are light and fluffy, bringing joy to every bite.
These traditional French beignets with vanilla are perfect for any meal of the day.
They can be made ahead and served warm.
They’re versatile; enjoy them with coffee pairings or as a sweet treat.
Each batch yields 12 servings, making them great for sharing.
They are vegetarian-friendly and use common ingredients found in your kitchen.

Ingredients for Vanilla French Beignets

Gather these items:

1 cup warm milk (110°F)
1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Vegetable oil, for frying
Powdered sugar, for dusting

How to Make Vanilla French Beignets Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of the sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Whisk in the remaining sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt.
Step 3: Gradually add flour and mix until a soft dough forms.
Step 4: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 3–4 minutes until smooth.
Step 5: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Roll the dough into a 1/4-inch thick rectangle. Cut into 2-inch squares.
Step 7: Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).
Step 8: Fry dough squares in batches for 1–2 minutes per side, until golden and puffed.
Step 9: Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 10: Generously dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Vanilla French Beignets

Keep these in mind:

Serve warm for the best flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
For a more flavorful twist, try adding a hint of nutmeg to the dough.

Best Ways to Serve Vanilla French Beignets

These fluffy French beignets with vanilla can be enjoyed in various ways:

Pair them with your favorite coffee for a delightful breakfast treat.
Serve with fresh fruits or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an indulgent dessert.
Try them with flavored whipped cream to elevate your dessert experience.

How to Store and Reheat Vanilla French Beignets

To keep your homemade vanilla beignets fresh, store them in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in an oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes. This will help them regain their fluffy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vanilla French Beignets

What’s the secret to perfect Vanilla French Beignets?

The secret lies in properly activating the yeast and allowing the dough to rise until it has doubled in size. This ensures that your vanilla beignets will be airy and fluffy.

Can I make Vanilla French Beignets ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. Once it has risen, you can refrigerate it, and then let it come to room temperature before frying.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Vanilla French Beignets?

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately, and don’t rush the rising process. Allowing the dough to rise fully is key to achieving that perfect texture.

Variations of Vanilla French Beignets You Can Try

There are many fun variations to explore:

For a chocolate twist, add cocoa powder to the dough.
Try stuffing them with fruit preserves for a fruity surprise.
Experiment with different flavored glazes for a unique finish.

Delicious Vanilla French Beignets: 12 Perfectly Fried Treats - Vanilla French Beignets - main visual representation

For more delicious dessert ideas, check out our Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake or Irresistible Orange Zest Cranberry.

Delicious Vanilla French Beignets: 12 Perfectly Fried Treats - Vanilla French Beignets - additional detail

For more information on the history of beignets, you can visit History.com.

To learn more about the best frying techniques, check out Serious Eats.