New Orleans-Style Beignets

These easy New Orleans-Style Beignets will transport you right to the French Quarter. Soft, pillowy, and dusted with powdered sugar, these delightful pastries are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a festive gathering. Their unique texture and sweet flavor make them a beloved treat for any occasion.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Dough
• For Frying and Dusting
• How to Make New Orleans-Style Beignets
• Step 1: Warm the Milk Mixture
• Step 2: Activate Yeast
• Step 3: Mix Ingredients
• Step 4: Prepare Dough for Rising
• Step 5: Let Dough Rise
• Step 6: Heat Oil
• Step 7: Roll Out Dough
• Step 8: Fry Beignets
• Step 9: Drain Excess Oil
• Step 10: Add Powdered Sugar
• How to Serve New Orleans-Style Beignets
• Classic with Powdered Sugar
• Coffee Pairing
• Fruit Compote
• Ice Cream Sandwiches
• Chocolate Sauce Drizzle
• Fresh Berries
• How to Perfect New Orleans-Style Beignets
• Best Side Dishes for New Orleans-Style Beignets
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing New Orleans-Style Beignets
• Reheating New Orleans-Style Beignets
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I make New Orleans-Style Beignets ahead of time?
• What is the best way to serve New Orleans-Style Beignets?
• Can I use gluten-free flour for New Orleans-Style Beignets?
• How do I know when my oil is ready for frying?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ease of Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making these beignets at home is hassle-free.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of warm dough and powdered sugar creates an irresistible treat that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as a breakfast staple or serve them as a dessert at parties; they fit any meal perfectly.
• Authentic Experience: These beignets bring the taste of New Orleans right into your kitchen, making every bite feel like a mini vacation.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for sharing, these beignets will impress friends and family alike with their fluffy goodness.

Tools and Preparation

To create your New Orleans-style beignets, having the right tools can make all the difference. Gather everything you’ll need to simplify the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or sturdy spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Deep-fry thermometer
• Large Dutch oven
• Baking sheet
• Fine-mesh strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep-fry thermometer: Ensures the oil is at the perfect temperature for frying, which is crucial for achieving crispy beignets.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space to mix your dough without spilling, making the preparation easier.
• Baking sheet: Allows you to drain excess oil from fried beignets efficiently while keeping them warm.

Ingredients

These easy New Orleans-style beignets will transport you right to the French Quarter.

For the Dough

• 3/4 cup water
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, very soft
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, divided (plus more for kneading and cutting)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

For Frying and Dusting

• 1 quart peanut or vegetable oil, plus more for the bowl
• 1 cup powdered sugar

How to Make New Orleans-Style Beignets

Step 1: Warm the Milk Mixture

Place 3/4 cup water and 1/2 cup whole milk in a large microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 1 1/2 minutes on full power. Alternatively, you can warm the milk and water in a small saucepan over medium heat for about 1 minute. The mixture should be warm but cooler than 100°F.

Step 2: Activate Yeast

Whisk 1/3 cup granulated sugar into the milk mixture. Then sprinkle with 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast. Set aside for 15 minutes until the yeast has become foamy.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

Add 1 large beaten egg, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 2 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, and 2 cups of flour to the milk mixture. Beat with a wooden spoon or sturdy spatula until thick but smooth. Add the remaining 1 1/2 cups flour and beat again until just combined. Aim for a thick batter-like consistency similar to drop biscuits rather than bread dough.

Step 4: Prepare Dough for Rising

Dust a work surface with about 1/4 cup more flour and dump the dough onto it. Gently fold it over itself 3 to 4 times (the dough will be sticky). Shape into a round and place in a well-oiled bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel.

Step 5: Let Dough Rise

Set the bowl in a warm place to rise until doubled in size, about 1 1/2 to 2 hours. Alternatively, cover with plastic wrap and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator for about 8 to 10 hours.

Step 6: Heat Oil

Heat 1 quart peanut or vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven fitted with a deep-fry thermometer over medium-high heat until it reaches 370ºF. Line a baking sheet with two layers of paper towels. If chilled, pull out the dough just before heating the oil to allow it to lose its chill for about 20 to 25 minutes.

Step 7: Roll Out Dough

While heating oil, dust a work surface with another layer of flour and dump out your dough onto it. Roll out the dough into a rectangle measuring approximately 17×11 inches and about 1/4-inch thick. Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut into about 20 to 22 pieces (each around two inches square).

Step 8: Fry Beignets

Fry in batches of three or four squares at a time by gently adding them into the hot oil (using hands or tongs). Immediately ladle hot oil over each piece using a large heatproof spoon. Fry until golden brown on one side (about 1 to 2 minutes), then flip using tongs or spoon and fry on second side until golden brown again (another minute).

Step 9: Drain Excess Oil

Transfer fried pieces onto your lined baking sheet and repeat with remaining dough.

Step 10: Add Powdered Sugar

Just before serving while still warm, use a large fine-mesh strainer to generously dust each beignet with about one cup of powdered sugar.

Enjoy your delicious homemade New Orleans-style beignets!

How to Serve New Orleans-Style Beignets

New Orleans-style beignets are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Their fluffy texture and sweet flavor make them a perfect addition to breakfast or dessert. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your beignet experience.

Classic with Powdered Sugar

• Dust generously with powdered sugar for the traditional presentation.
• Serve them warm for the best melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Coffee Pairing

• Enjoy your beignets with a strong cup of café au lait.
• The rich coffee complements the sweetness of the beignets perfectly.

Fruit Compote

• Drizzle with a homemade fruit compote, such as berry or apple.
• The tartness of the fruit cuts through the sweetness, adding freshness.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Create an ice cream sandwich using two beignets and your favorite ice cream flavor.
• This indulgent treat is perfect for warm days.

Chocolate Sauce Drizzle

• Serve alongside a small bowl of melted chocolate sauce for dipping.
• This adds a decadent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.

Fresh Berries

• Garnish with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for color and flavor.
• The berries add a refreshing contrast to the deep-fried dough.

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How to Perfect New Orleans-Style Beignets

To achieve perfectly fluffy New Orleans-style beignets, follow these helpful tips. With attention to detail, you can elevate your baking game!

• Use fresh yeast: Make sure your active dry yeast is fresh for optimal rising.
• Warm liquids: Ensure that your milk and water mixture is warm but not too hot to activate the yeast properly.
• Don’t over-knead: Gently fold the dough without overworking it to keep it light and airy.
• Temperature control: Maintain oil temperature at 370ºF for even frying and avoid greasy beignets.
• Dust before serving: Generously dust with powdered sugar just before serving for the best presentation.
• Enjoy fresh: Beignets are best eaten warm; serve them soon after frying.

Best Side Dishes for New Orleans-Style Beignets

Beignets pair well with several side dishes that complement their rich flavor. Here are some delicious options to consider when serving these tasty treats.

1. Café au Lait: A classic New Orleans coffee drink made with equal parts brewed coffee and steamed milk.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits that balances the sweetness of the beignets.
3. Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche adds a savory element, making it an ideal brunch option.
4. Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon provides a delicious contrast to sweet pastries.
5. Spicy Sausage Links: A touch of heat from spicy sausage pairs well with sugary beignets.
6. Creole Shrimp Remoulade: For those looking for something different, this tangy shrimp dish can offer exciting flavors alongside sweets.
7. Vanilla Yogurt: Creamy yogurt with a hint of vanilla serves as a light dip for your beignets.
8. Bourbon Pecan Pie: A slice of pie brings Southern charm and complements the dessert theme beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making New Orleans-style beignets can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes to watch for. Here are some tips to ensure your beignets turn out perfectly.

• Incorrect yeast activation: Make sure your milk and water mixture is warm but not too hot. If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast and prevent rising.
• Overworking the dough: Gently fold the dough as instructed. Overmixing can lead to tough beignets instead of light and airy ones.
• Skipping the rise time: Allow the dough to double in size as directed. Skipping this step can result in dense beignets that lack fluffiness.
• Not using enough oil: Ensure you have enough oil in your pot when frying. Insufficient oil can cause the beignets to cook unevenly or absorb too much grease.
• Frying at the wrong temperature: Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature. Frying at too low a temperature will make them greasy, while too high will burn them.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover beignets in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for about 2–3 days.

Freezing New Orleans-Style Beignets

• Place cooled, uncoated beignets in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container; they can last for up to 1 month.

Reheating New Orleans-Style Beignets

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place beignets on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one or two beignets on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds. Be cautious as they can become chewy.
• Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry each side of the beignet for about 1 minute until warmed and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making New Orleans-style beignets that might help you out.

Can I make New Orleans-Style Beignets ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time, let it rise, and then refrigerate it overnight before frying.

What is the best way to serve New Orleans-Style Beignets?

These beignets are best served warm, generously dusted with powdered sugar. Pair them with coffee or hot chocolate for an authentic experience.

Can I use gluten-free flour for New Orleans-Style Beignets?

You may substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour; however, the texture may vary slightly from traditional recipes.

How do I know when my oil is ready for frying?

Use a deep-fry thermometer; it should reach about 370°F (188°C) before adding your beignets. You can test with a small piece of dough; if it bubbles immediately, it’s ready.

Final Thoughts

New Orleans-style beignets are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a fantastic breakfast or dessert option. Feel free to customize them with different fillings like chocolate or fruit preserves. Try making these delightful treats at home; you won’t regret it!