Name: Chocolate Beignets with Rich Chocolate Filling and Cocoa Dusting Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 3 h
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 and 1/2 cups warm water, between 110 and 115 degrees (F) (340 grams); 2/3 cup granulated sugar (131 grams); 2 and 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast; 7 cups bread flour (845 grams); 1 and 1/2 teaspoons salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder (23 grams); 2 large eggs, at room temperature; 2 and 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1 cup evaporated milk (227 grams); 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature, cut into tiny pieces (71 grams); 5 cups peanut oil, for deep frying (992 grams); 1 cup (170 grams) semisweet chocolate, finely chopped; 1/8 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons (25 grams) confectioners’ sugar; 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder, optional; 1 cup (227 grams) heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 and 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar (170 grams); 1 Tablespoon cocoa powder, unsweetened or Dutch-process

If you have a sweet tooth and a love for indulgent treats, this Chocolate Beignets with Rich Chocolate Filling and Cocoa Dusting Recipe will become your new obsession. Picture golden, pillowy beignets that give way to a luscious, velvety chocolate filling, all dusted with a delicate cocoa and powdered sugar blend. These beignets blend the comforting warmth of classic French-style doughnuts with deep chocolate flavor that’s both rich and satisfying. Whether for a Sunday brunch or a decadent dessert, these little pillows of joy offer a magical bite in every mouthful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a clear glass measuring cup filled with a foamy, light beige mixture that looks bubbly on top, nearly reaching the 1 cup mark. The measuring cup is placed on a white marbled textured surface. In the background, there is a packet of

This recipe keeps things straightforward with pantry staples that come together to create extraordinary flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the cocoa powder adding that irresistible chocolate tone to the evaporated milk contributing to a tender crumb that’s perfect for frying.

Warm water: Helps activate the yeast for that perfect dough rise.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough gently while feeding the yeast.
Active dry yeast: Creates the light, airy texture characteristic of beignets.
Bread flour: Provides the right protein for a chewy yet tender beignet.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
Ground cinnamon: Adds a subtle warmth complementing the cocoa.
Dutch-process cocoa powder: Delivers deep chocolate flavor and rich color.
Large eggs: Bind ingredients and add moisture.
Pure vanilla extract: Lends a sweet, aromatic depth.
Evaporated milk: Contributes creaminess and richness to the dough.
Unsalted butter: Infuses smoothness and richness.
Peanut oil: Ideal for deep frying with a high smoke point and neutral flavor.
Semisweet chocolate: For the decadent filling that melts perfectly.
Salt (for filling): Balances the chocolate’s sweetness.
Confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens the filling and dusting elegantly.
Espresso powder (optional): Enhances chocolate’s richness without overpowering.
Heavy cream: Makes the filling decadent and silky.
Vanilla extract (for filling): Adds a lovely fragrance that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
Cocoa powder (for dusting): Creates a finishing touch with a rich, slightly bitter edge.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Chocolate Beignets with Rich Chocolate Filling and Cocoa Dusting Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by whisking together warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast in a medium bowl. Let it rest for about 10 minutes until it becomes foamy – this shows your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic on the dough’s rise.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Sift together bread flour, salt, cinnamon, and Dutch-process cocoa powder in a large bowl. This dry mix will give the beignets their rich chocolate base and a subtle spicy warmth from the cinnamon that rounds out the flavor beautifully.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In your stand mixer bowl with the paddle attachment, beat the eggs until smooth, then add vanilla extract and evaporated milk. This mixture adds moisture and flavor, creating a silky batter base for the dough.

Step 4: Bring the Dough Together

Slowly add half the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, followed carefully by the foam yeast mixture. Mix gently to avoid splashing. Incorporate butter next for richness, then fold in the remaining flour until the dough becomes smooth and cohesive – exactly what gives beignets their perfect texture.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours. This resting period allows flavors to deepen while the dough firms up, making it easier to handle for frying.

Step 6: Prepare for Frying

When ready, heat peanut oil in a large pan to 360 degrees Fahrenheit for the perfect frying temperature. Meanwhile, shape the dough on a floured surface, rolling it into a quarter-inch-thick rectangle. Cut into three-inch squares – these will puff up into golden pillows once fried.

Step 7: Fry the Beignets

Fry the dough squares in batches, turning after 30 to 45 seconds to brown evenly. The beignets will puff beautifully and develop a crisp exterior while staying soft inside. Transfer them to paper towel-lined trays to drain excess oil.

Step 8: Prepare the Rich Chocolate Filling

Chop semisweet chocolate finely and place in a heatproof bowl with salt and some confectioners’ sugar. Heat heavy cream and optional espresso powder just before boiling, then pour over the chocolate mix. Let it sit a few minutes, then stir until silky smooth and stir in vanilla. Chill for about 2 hours until firm enough to pipe.

Step 9: Fill the Beignets and Dust with Cocoa Sugar

Using a piping bag, fill each beignet through a small hole poked on its side with the luscious chocolate filling. Finish by dusting generously with a mix of confectioners’ sugar and cocoa powder for a delicate, chocolate-kissed topping that completes this divine treat.

How to Serve Chocolate Beignets with Rich Chocolate Filling and Cocoa Dusting Recipe

A close-up image shows four deep brown rectangular pieces frying in hot bubbling oil inside a white pan. The texture of the pieces looks crispy and slightly wrinkled, with one piece showing a small tear on the surface. Next to the pieces, a clear glass thermometer with red liquid inside is clipped to the side of the pan. The background features a white marbled texture, highlighting the pan and its contents clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance these chocolate beignets further by topping with a fresh mint leaf or a sprinkle of crushed toasted hazelnuts for added texture. Even a tiny drizzle of caramel or raspberry sauce can elevate this already exquisite treat into something truly special.

Side Dishes

Pair your beignets with a rich, creamy café au lait or a chilled glass of whole milk to balance the intense chocolate flavor. Fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries also pair wonderfully, adding a bright contrast to the beignets’ warm richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the beignets in quaint baskets lined with pastel linen napkins for a charming brunch presentation. You might also create a dessert platter with assorted fresh berries, whipped cream, and edible flowers for an elegant party display. The drama of the chocolate filling oozing from the center makes any setting instantly Instagram-worthy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover beignets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours. They are best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to save them, avoid refrigeration as it can toughen the dough.

Freezing

You can freeze unfried dough squares wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and freezer bags for up to a month. When ready, thaw in the fridge overnight, then fry as usual for fresh-tasting beignets anytime.

Reheating

Reheat filled beignets gently in a warm oven (about 300 degrees Fahrenheit) for 5 to 8 minutes to revive their crispiness without melting the chocolate filling too much. Avoid microwave reheating, as it can make the dough rubbery and the filling overly hot.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of chocolate for the filling?

Absolutely! Semisweet chocolate is classic, but you can use bittersweet or milk chocolate depending on your sweetness preference. Just adjust the sugar slightly if using sweeter chocolate to keep balance.

Is it possible to bake these beignets instead of frying?

For authentic texture and flavor, frying is best. However, you can bake them at a high temperature until golden, but expect a different, less crispy texture without deep frying.

Can I make the dough without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can mix the ingredients by hand using a sturdy spoon or whisk initially and then knead the dough on a floured surface. It’ll take more elbow grease but works just as well.

Why is the dough refrigerated before frying?

Chilling the dough helps relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out and shape. It also enhances flavor development and improves final texture after frying.

What if the chocolate filling is too hard after refrigeration?

Simply microwave the filling for a few seconds and stir well. It will soften to a perfect consistency for piping without losing its richness.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Chocolate Beignets with Rich Chocolate Filling and Cocoa Dusting Recipe enough if you want to experience a little slice of chocolate heaven at home. The combination of crisp fried dough, silky chocolate filling, and the delicate cocoa dusting makes every bite feel like a treat you deserve. Trust me, once you try it, these beignets will become your go-to for impressing guests or spoiling yourself on a quiet afternoon. Give it a whirl and savor every chocolatey moment!