Name: Vanilla French Beignets Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 3 h
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast; ¾ cup warm water; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; ½ cup whole milk; 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 4 cups all-purpose flour; Pinch of salt; Oil for frying; Powdered sugar for dusting

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for a treat that feels like a warm hug and a fresh adventure all at once, this Vanilla French Beignets Recipe is your golden ticket. Pillowy soft, perfectly sweet, and lovingly dusted with powdered sugar, each beignet is a little bite of Parisian heaven — and they’re so easy to make at home. Whether you’re whipping these up for brunch or just to brighten an ordinary day, this Vanilla French Beignets Recipe keeps things classic with a touch of luscious vanilla that takes them to new heights.

Vanilla French Beignets Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Classic beignets come together with just a handful of kitchen staples, yet every ingredient plays a pivotal role in creating their signature fluffy interior, crisp golden shell, and irresistible aroma. Let’s walk through the lineup that builds the magic behind this Vanilla French Beignets Recipe.

Active dry yeast: This is your secret source for a light, airy dough that puffs up beautifully while frying.
Warm water: Gives the yeast a cozy spot to bloom and ensures your dough gets off to a lively start.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps activate the yeast.
Large eggs: Bring richness and structure, helping the beignets achieve their tender crumb.
Whole milk: Keeps the dough moist and decadently soft.
Unsalted butter, melted: Infuses the dough with flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Vanilla extract: The star flavor note that sets this Vanilla French Beignets Recipe apart from the rest.
All-purpose flour: Provides a sturdy but delicate base for the dough.
Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
Oil for frying: Use something neutral (like canola or vegetable) that won’t overpower the subtle vanilla.
Powdered sugar for dusting: The classic crowning glory for beignets, adding a whimsical snow-like finish and extra sweetness.

How to Make Vanilla French Beignets Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by dissolving your active dry yeast in warm water with just a pinch of sugar to give it energy. Let this sit for about 5 minutes—watch as it becomes bubbly and frothy, signaling your dough is about to rise to the occasion! This small step sets the foundation for perfectly airy beignets.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, eggs, whole milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is beautifully blended. This creamy mixture is packed with richness and sets the tone for the flavor profile that makes this Vanilla French Beignets Recipe truly sensational.

Step 3: Make & Knead the Dough

Gradually add your all-purpose flour and pinch of salt to the wet mixture, stirring as you go. You’ll see the dough begin to come together; it should feel soft and just a bit tacky. Knead it for a few minutes until it’s smooth and elastic—this step is all about building that signature chewy texture.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Cover your bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours, or until it’s doubled in size. The waiting is always the hardest part, but it’s wonderful to watch the dough bloom—it’s a hint of the fluffy, cloud-like beignets to come.

Step 5: Shape the Beignets

On a floured surface, gently roll your dough out to about ½ inch thick. Use a sharp knife or cutter to slice it into squares or circles, depending on your mood (or the style you’re feeling!). Each piece promises a soft, airy middle with crisp fried edges.

Step 6: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat your oil to 350°F in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot. Fry the beignets in batches to avoid overcrowding, about 2–3 minutes per side, until they’re puffed and gloriously golden. Lift them out with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels—try not to eat them all right away!

Step 7: Dust with Powdered Sugar

While still warm, shower your beignets with a generous drift of powdered sugar. This snowy finish is classic for a reason and adds an irresistible sweetness that crowns each bite of this Vanilla French Beignets Recipe.

How to Serve Vanilla French Beignets Recipe

Garnishes

While a healthy snowfall of powdered sugar is the iconic topping, you can make your presentation extra-special with swirls of whipped cream, a drizzle of salted caramel, or a few fresh berries on the side. Each garnish brings out a new dimension in the beignets’ flavor—you can even sprinkle a touch of cinnamon or cocoa on top for a playful twist!

Side Dishes

These delightful beignets pair beautifully with a big mug of café au lait or hot chocolate. For a brunch centerpiece, serve them alongside warm fruit compote, vanilla yogurt, or even a savory quiche to balance out the sweetness. Every bite of this Vanilla French Beignets Recipe shines brightest with a little company on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re in the mood for fun, thread mini beignets onto skewers for a charming party treat or stack them up tall on a serving platter for a show-stopping brunch tower. For a make-your-own dessert bar, offer a variety of dips like fruit jam, chocolate sauce, and honey—and let everyone dip into their favorite flavors while savoring your Vanilla French Beignets Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you manage to have any beignets left (the true challenge!), pop them in an airtight container lined with paper towels. At room temperature, they’ll stay fresh for a day, though they’re at their absolute best just-made.

Freezing

This Vanilla French Beignets Recipe is freeze-friendly! Let the fried beignets cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to two months. This trick is perfect for spontaneous, anytime cravings.

Reheating

To revive leftover or frozen beignets, place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for 7–10 minutes. They’ll come out warm, pillowy, and just as dreamy as the first time around. A quick dusting of fresh powdered sugar is all they need before serving.

FAQs

What’s the secret to super fluffy beignets?

The fluffiest beignets come from allowing the dough plenty of time to rise and ensuring your oil is at the right temperature (350°F). Both steps help the dough puff up gorgeously during frying!

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Absolutely! Instant yeast can be added directly to the dry ingredients without proofing. Use the same amount, and you’ll still get fabulous results with this Vanilla French Beignets Recipe.

How do I know the oil is ready for frying?

If you don’t have a thermometer, drop in a small piece of dough—it should sizzle immediately and rise to the surface. Keep the oil temperature steady for perfectly golden beignets every time.

Is there a way to infuse more vanilla flavor?

For a deeper vanilla presence, try scraping the seeds of half a vanilla bean into your dough or adding a splash of vanilla bean paste along with the extract. The vanilla aroma will be even more enchanting!

Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes! Prepare the dough up to the first rise, then cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let it come back to room temperature, roll out, and continue with the recipe for extra convenience.

Final Thoughts

Few things are as joyful to share as a fresh batch of homemade beignets, and this Vanilla French Beignets Recipe promises to deliver delight with every bite. Whether you’re making memories at breakfast or treating yourself to a quiet afternoon snack, these beignets bring a little more magic to the moment. Give them a try—and get ready for plenty of smiles around your table!

Vanilla French Beignets Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 5 reviews

Author: Mariam
Total Time: 3 hours
Yield: Approximately 24 beignets 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the delightful taste of homemade Vanilla French Beignets with this easy-to-follow recipe. These pillowy treats are perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack with a hint of vanilla flavor.

Instructions

Dissolve yeast in warm water: Add yeast to warm water with a pinch of sugar. Allow it to sit until frothy, about 5 minutes.
Prepare dough: In a large bowl, combine sugar, eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Gradually mix in flour and salt to form a dough. Knead until smooth.
Rise dough: Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
Shape and fry: Roll out the dough, cut into shapes, and fry in hot oil until golden brown on both sides, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
Finish: Drain the fried beignets on paper towels and dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Snack
Method: Frying
Cuisine: French