Transport yourself to the romantic streets of Paris with every bite of these delightful Vanilla Beignets. Light, fluffy, and kissed with a hint of vanilla, these traditional French pastries are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet indulgence any time of the day. Whether you’re savoring them fresh out of the fryer with a dusting of powdered sugar or pairing them with your favorite coffee, this recipe will make your kitchen feel like a Parisian café. Best of all, they’re easy to make, so let’s get started!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup warm milk (not too hot, about 100°F/38°C)
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
For Frying & Topping
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
- Gradually add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients, followed by the melted butter and vanilla extract. Mix until a soft dough forms.
2. Knead and Rest
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–7 minutes.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1–2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
3. Roll and Shape
- Once risen, punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface.
- Roll the dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Using a sharp knife or pastry cutter, cut into squares or rectangles (about 2 inches each).
- Cover the cut dough with a towel and let it rest for another 30 minutes.
4. Fry the Beignets
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the dough squares in batches, 2–3 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and puffed. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels.
5. Finish and Serve
- Generously dust the beignets with powdered sugar while they are still warm.
- Serve immediately and enjoy them fresh, warm, and irresistibly delicious!
Conclusion
Making Vanilla Beignets at home is not only a rewarding culinary experience but also a delightful way to bring the flavors of France to your table. With their golden exterior, airy interior, and a touch of sweetness, these pastries are sure to become a household favorite. Pair them with a steaming cup of coffee or a scoop of ice cream for a truly indulgent treat. Bon appétit!
