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Vanilla French Beignets [120 Minutes]

Vanilla French Beignets [120 Minutes]

These classic Vanilla French Beignets are pillowy, golden-fried doughnuts with a delicate hint of vanilla—perfectly dusted with powdered sugar. They’re a timeless treat straight from the streets of Paris, ideal for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent snack.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Rest time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Course Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Cuisine european, French
Servings 11

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Stand mixer (optional)
  • Rolling Pin
  • deep fryer or heavy pot
  • thermometer
  • Slotted spoon
  • Paper towels

Ingredients
  

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
  • ¾ cup warm milk 110°F/43°C
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter softened
  • Oil for frying vegetable or canola
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions
 

  • In a bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
  • Add sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and butter. Mix until smooth.
  • Gradually stir in flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
  • Knead by hand or with a dough hook for about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  • Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface to ½-inch thickness.
  • Cut into 2–3 inch squares or circles. Place on a tray and cover. Let rest for 15 minutes.
  • Heat oil in a pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  • Fry beignets in batches for 1–2 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
  • Drain on paper towels and dust generously with powdered sugar. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Make sure the oil stays at a consistent 350°F to avoid greasy or undercooked beignets.
  • You can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it after the first rise.
  • For a richer flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
Keyword beignet recipe, classic beignets, vanilla beignets, French doughnuts, vanilla beignets, vanilla French beignets
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