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Vanilla French Beignets

A close-up of four golden-brown Vanilla French Beignets piled on a white plate and heavily dusted with powdered sugar.
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A recipe for light, airy French beignets flavored with vanilla, deep-fried until golden, and dusted with powdered sugar.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

  1. Combine the warm milk and yeast in a large bowl. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Stir the granulated sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and salt into the yeast mixture.
  3. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  6. Punch down the risen dough gently. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
  7. Cut the dough into 3-inch squares.
  8. Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C). Use a thermometer to maintain this temperature.
  9. Carefully drop 3 or 4 dough squares into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot.
  10. Fry for 1 to 2 minutes per side, turning once, until puffed and golden brown.
  11. Remove the beignets with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  12. Dust generously with powdered sugar while still warm. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For a stronger vanilla flavor, use vanilla bean paste instead of extract.
  • Maintain the oil temperature strictly at 375°F; if the oil is too cool, the beignets will absorb too much oil and become heavy.
  • If you prefer a glaze, mix 1 cup powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons milk and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, then drizzle over cooled beignets.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorsensations.com/vanilla-french-beignets-recipe/