New Orleans-Style Beignets
These easy New Orleans-style beignets will transport you right to the French Quarter. With their pillowy texture and sweet, powdered sugar coating, these delightful treats are perfect for breakfast or any special occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or indulging in a sweet snack, New Orleans-style beignets offer a unique taste of the Big Easy that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: Despite their gourmet appearance, these beignets come together easily with minimal effort.
- Perfect for Sharing: With about 22 servings, these treats are great for gatherings or family breakfasts.
- Customizable Flavor: While traditional beignets are served plain, feel free to experiment with different flavorings or fillings.
- Crispy on the Outside: The frying process gives them a wonderfully crispy exterior while remaining soft and fluffy inside.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy them with coffee, chocolate sauce, or fresh fruit for an even more delicious experience.
Tools and Preparation
To create your New Orleans-style beignets successfully, you’ll need some essential tools and equipment. Having the right kitchen gadgets makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or sturdy spatula
- Rolling pin
- Pizza cutter or sharp knife
- Deep-fry thermometer
- Large Dutch oven
- Baking sheet
Importance of Each Tool
- Deep-fry thermometer: Ensures your oil is at the correct temperature for frying, resulting in perfect beignets every time.
- Rolling pin: Helps achieve an even thickness when rolling out the dough for consistent cooking results.
Ingredients
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 Topping
- 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 Liquid Mixture
Place 3/4 cup water and 1/2 cup whole milk in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 1 1/2 minutes on full power. Alternatively, warm in a small saucepan over medium heat for about 1 minute. The mixture should feel warm but not exceed 100°F.
Step 2: Activate the Yeast
Whisk in 1/3 cup granulated sugar into the warm milk mixture. Sprinkle with 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast and set aside for about 15 minutes until it becomes foamy.
Step 3: Combine 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 until thick but smooth. Add the remaining flour (1 1/2 cups) and mix until just combined; aim for a thick batter consistency.
Step 4: Prepare Dough to Rise
Dust your work surface with about 1/4 cup additional flour and dump the dough onto it. Gently fold the dough over itself three to four times. Shape it into a round and place it in a well-oiled bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel.
Step 5: Let It Rise
Allow the bowl to sit in a warm area until doubled in size (about 1.5 to 2 hours). Alternatively, cover with plastic wrap and let rise overnight in the refrigerator for about 8 to 10 hours.
Step 6: Heat Oil
Heat one quart of peanut or vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven fitted with a deep-fry thermometer over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 370ºF. Line a baking sheet with two layers of paper towels.
Step 7: Roll Out Dough
Dust your work surface again with about another quarter cup of flour before dumping out the dough. Roll it out into a rectangle measuring about 17×11 inches and about 1/4-inch thick. Cut into approximately twenty-two square pieces using a pizza cutter or sharp knife.
Step 8: Fry Beignets
Carefully add three to four squares at a time into the hot oil using your hands or tongs. Use a heatproof spoon to ladle hot oil over them while they fry. Cook each side until golden brown (about one to two minutes per side).
Step 9: Transfer Beignets
Once cooked, transfer beignets onto your prepared baking sheet lined with paper towels. Repeat this process with any remaining dough.
Step 10: Dust with Sugar
Before serving while still warm, dust generously with powdered sugar using a fine-mesh strainer.
Enjoy your fresh New Orleans-style beignets!
How to Serve New Orleans-Style Beignets
New Orleans-style beignets are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Their fluffy texture and powdered sugar coating make them perfect for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your beignet experience.
With Coffee
- Café au Lait: Pair your beignets with a warm cup of café au lait for a classic French Quarter experience.
- Espresso: The rich flavor of espresso complements the sweetness of the beignets perfectly.
For Breakfast
- Fruit Compote: Serve with a side of warm fruit compote for a fruity twist.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzle some maple syrup over the beignets for added sweetness and flavor.
At Parties
- Chocolate Sauce: Offer chocolate sauce as a dipping option for guests who enjoy a chocolatey treat.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top makes for an indulgent dessert.
How to Perfect New Orleans-Style Beignets
To achieve the best results with your New Orleans-style beignets, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your beignets are fluffy, delicious, and truly authentic.
- Use Fresh Yeast: Always check the expiration date on your yeast to ensure it activates properly.
- Correct Temperature: Make sure your milk and water mixture is warm enough to activate the yeast but not too hot, which could kill it.
- Knead Gently: Avoid overworking the dough; gentle folding helps maintain the airy texture.
- Oil Temperature Matters: Fry at 370ºF for perfect golden-brown color and crispy edges.
- Dust Generously: Don’t skimp on powdered sugar; it enhances both presentation and flavor.
- Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve your beignets right after frying.
Best Side Dishes for New Orleans-Style Beignets
While New Orleans-style beignets shine on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.
- Crispy Bacon: The savory crunch of bacon balances the sweetness of the beignets perfectly.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of fruits adds brightness and contrasts nicely with the rich pastries.
- Savory Omelette: A fluffy omelette filled with herbs and cheese makes for a hearty breakfast alongside sweet beignets.
- Shrimp and Grits: This Southern classic offers a creamy texture that pairs well with the airy doughnuts.
- Spicy Sausage Links: The heat from spicy sausage provides an exciting contrast to sweet flavors.
- Grilled Veggies: Seasonal grilled vegetables add color and nutrients to your plate while balancing flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making New Orleans-style beignets can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes that can lead to disappointing results. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Using cold ingredients: Cold water or milk can prevent the yeast from activating properly. Always warm your liquids before adding them to the mixture.
- Skipping the rising time: Rushing this step can lead to dense beignets. Allow the dough plenty of time to rise until it has doubled in size.
- Overcrowding the frying oil: Frying too many beignets at once can lower the oil temperature. Fry in small batches to ensure they cook evenly and become fluffy.
- Not dusting with enough powdered sugar: Beignets are meant to be sweet and fluffy! Generously dust them with powdered sugar just before serving for that perfect finish.
- Re-rolling dough: Avoid rerolling leftover dough as it can toughen the beignets. Instead, cut them as they are and enjoy the unique shapes.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Place a paper towel inside to absorb excess moisture and keep them fresh.
Freezing New Orleans-Style Beignets
- Wrap each cooled beignet in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month.
- Label with the date for easy identification later.
Reheating New Orleans-Style Beignets
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place beignets on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on low power for about 10-15 seconds per beignet, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Warm them in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally until heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making New Orleans-style beignets that will help you perfect your recipe.
How do I know when my New Orleans-style beignets are done frying?
The beignets should be golden brown on both sides. Use a thermometer to check that the oil is around 370°F (190°C) for best results.
Can I make New Orleans-style beignets ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Just let it rest at room temperature before frying.
What can I serve with New Orleans-style beignets?
They pair wonderfully with coffee or hot chocolate. For an extra treat, serve alongside fruit preserves or whipped cream.
Are New Orleans-style beignets gluten-free?
Traditional recipes use all-purpose flour, but you can substitute gluten-free flour blends if needed. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Final Thoughts
New Orleans-style beignets offer a delightful taste of Louisiana’s charm right in your kitchen. Their versatility allows for customization—try adding spices or flavored extracts for a personal touch. Enjoy these sweet treats at breakfast or as an indulgent dessert!
New Orleans-Style Beignets
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 22 servings 1x
Description
New Orleans-style beignets are a delightful treat that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of the French Quarter. With their pillowy texture and generous dusting of powdered sugar, these fluffy pastries are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an indulgent snack. They are surprisingly simple to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients. Each bite offers a heavenly contrast between the crispy exterior and soft interior, making them a favorite for gatherings and special occasions. Serve them warm with coffee or fruit preserves for an authentic experience that everyone will adore.
Ingredients
- 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 (softened)
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- Oil for frying (peanut or vegetable)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Warm water and milk in a microwave or saucepan until slightly warm (not exceeding 100°F).
- Mix in sugar and yeast; let sit until foamy (about 15 minutes).
- Combine the beaten egg, salt, softened butter, and half of the flour into the yeast mixture; mix until smooth.
- Add remaining flour gradually, mixing until thick.
- Dust a surface with flour; transfer dough and fold gently. Place in an oiled bowl and cover.
- Allow dough to rise in a warm area until doubled (about 1.5 to 2 hours) or refrigerate overnight.
- Heat oil to approximately 370°F in a Dutch oven.
- Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thick and cut into squares.
- Fry squares in batches until golden brown on each side (1-2 minutes); drain on paper towels.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 beignet (40g)
- Calories: 155
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 32mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 12mg
