French Beignets
This vanilla french beignets dessert recipe delivers rich flavor and an easy method, ideal for holidays or everyday treats.
Total time
45 min
Servings
1
Calories
532.7
Category
Breakfast & Brunch
Discover the joy of homemade French Beignets with this easy, kid-friendly recipe. These light, airy pastries are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any sweet craving. Ready in under 60 minutes, they feature a delicate lemon zest flavor and a generous dusting of powdered sugar. Serve them warm with melted jam or jelly for an authentic French treat.
Ingredients
Makes 1 serving
- 1 flour
- 1 sugar
- 1/2 salt
- 1 water
- 1/2 butter
- 5 eggs
- 1 lemon, zest of
- 1/2 - 1 powdered sugar
Method
In a small mixing bowl, stir together the flour, sugar and salt.
Place water and butter in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
Add all of the flour mixture in the bowl, stirring briskly (it will come together like a ball); remove pan from heat.
Using a large whisk, blend in eggs one at a time, until mixture is smooth and whites are well incorporated.
Add the lemon zest and stir to blend.
Heat enough oil to deep fry to a temp of 375F (at least several inches).
Drop batter mixture by rounded teaspoonfuls into hot oil and cook 5-7 minutes, frequently turning beignets with chopsticks to cook all sides, and frying until nicely golden.
Drain beignets on paper towels.
When cool, dust with powdered sugar (if you dust them while they are too warm, the sugar will melt and get damp).
Heat jam or jelly until melted using a small saucepan or microwave, stirring occasionally as it melts.
Serve beignets with melted jam as a dipping sauce.
Cook's notes
- For best results, use a deep-fry thermometer to maintain oil at 375°F (190°C) and avoid overcrowding the pot.
- Chopsticks are ideal for turning beignets while frying, but tongs work as well.
- Dust with powdered sugar only after beignets have cooled completely to prevent the sugar from melting.
- Serve immediately for maximum crispiness; leftovers can be reheated in an oven at 350°F for a few minutes.
Easy swaps
- Instead of All-purpose flour, use Gluten-free all-purpose flour blendMay yield a slightly denser texture.
- Instead of Lemon zest, use Orange zest or vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)Adds a different citrus or sweet aroma.
- Instead of Butter, use Margarine or coconut oilUse equal amounts; coconut oil adds a subtle flavor.
- Instead of Jam or jelly, use Chocolate sauce, caramel, or fresh fruit compoteGreat for variety.
Frequently asked
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then fry straight from the fridge.
Why are my beignets not puffing up?
Ensure your oil is hot enough (375°F). If the oil is too cool, the beignets will absorb oil and become dense rather than puffing.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Baking is not recommended as it will not achieve the same light, airy texture. Frying is essential for authentic French beignets.
How do I know when the beignets are done?
They should be golden brown on all sides and puffed up. Cooking time is typically 5-7 minutes with frequent turning.
Is there a dairy-free version?
Yes, substitute butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil, and use water as the liquid. The recipe already uses water, so it's naturally dairy-free aside from butter.
