Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe creates beignets that are soft and fluffy inside with a lightly crisp exterior. They are simple to make, incredibly rewarding, and perfect for special breakfasts, weekend brunches, or holiday mornings.
Print
Vanilla French Beignets for Breakfast – Light, Fluffy
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 20 beignets
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Light, fluffy vanilla French beignets fried until golden and dusted with powdered sugar, making an irresistible breakfast treat inspired by classic New Orleans pastries.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 2 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
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Whisk in the egg, evaporated milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead dough lightly until smooth, then cover and let rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
- Roll dough out on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cut dough into 2-inch squares.
- Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pot.
- Fry beignets in batches for 1–2 minutes per side until puffed and golden.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Generously dust with powdered sugar and serve warm.
Notes
- Serve immediately for the best texture.
- Do not overcrowd the oil while frying.
- Pairs perfectly with coffee or hot chocolate.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: French / Creole
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
All-purpose flour
Forms the structure of the beignets while keeping them light and tender.
Granulated sugar
Adds gentle sweetness to the dough.
Active dry yeast
Gives the beignets their signature airy, puffed texture.
Warm milk
Activates the yeast and adds richness to the dough.
Eggs
Contribute structure and softness.
Unsalted butter
Adds flavor and tenderness to the dough.
Vanilla extract
Infuses the beignets with warm, aromatic sweetness.
Salt
Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Vegetable oil
Used for frying to achieve a golden, crisp exterior.
Powdered sugar
Creates the classic snowy finish.
Directions
Begin by dissolving the yeast in warm milk and allowing it to foam slightly. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, then cover and allow it to rise in a warm place until doubled in size. Once risen, gently roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut it into small squares or rectangles.
Heat oil in a deep pan to frying temperature. Fry the dough pieces in batches, turning them as they puff and turn golden on both sides. Remove and drain briefly on paper towels. Dust generously with powdered sugar and serve warm.
Essential Equipment
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
Serves 4–6
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1–1½ hours
Frying time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: about 1 hour 45 minutes
Storage/reheating
Beignets are best enjoyed fresh. If needed, store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for one day. Reheat briefly in the oven to restore warmth. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the exterior.
Variations and Customizations
Chocolate-Filled Beignets
Add chocolate spread inside before frying.
Cinnamon Sugar Beignets
Toss in cinnamon sugar instead of powdered sugar.
Orange Vanilla Beignets
Add orange zest to the dough for brightness.
Glazed Beignets
Drizzle with vanilla glaze instead of powdered sugar.
Mini Beignets
Cut smaller pieces for bite-sized treats.
Dairy-Free Beignets
Use plant-based milk and butter alternatives.
Spiced Breakfast Beignets
Add nutmeg or cardamom for warmth.
Coffee-Flavored Beignets
Add espresso powder to the dough.
Savory Breakfast Beignets
Reduce sugar and serve with honey butter.
Holiday Beignets
Top with festive sprinkles over powdered sugar.
FAQs
Are beignets the same as donuts?
They are similar but lighter and less sweet than traditional donuts.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate overnight and fry in the morning.
Why didn’t my beignets puff up?
The oil may not have been hot enough or the yeast inactive.
Can I bake beignets instead of frying?
Frying is traditional and gives the best texture.
What oil is best for frying?
Neutral oils like vegetable or canola work best.
Can I use instant yeast?
Yes, adjust according to package instructions.
How sweet are these beignets?
Lightly sweet, with most sweetness coming from the sugar dusting.
Do I need a thermometer?
Helpful, but not required with careful heat control.
Conclusion
Making Amazing Vanilla French Beignets for Breakfast is a rewarding way to bring classic café flavors into your home. Soft, airy, and lightly sweet with a warm vanilla aroma, these beignets transform any morning into a special occasion. Whether served for brunch, holidays, or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe delivers comfort, indulgence, and timeless French charm in every bite.
Looking for more tasty recipes? Visit our website for full details and follow us on Pinterest for daily food ideas to save and share