If you have a sweet tooth and a love for crispy, pillowy treats, then this Classic Deep-Fried Beignets Recipe is about to become your new best friend. These golden pockets of fried dough are soft, airy, and generously dusted with powdered sugar, delivering an irresistible bite every single time. Perfect for gatherings or weekend indulgences, this recipe brings the authentic taste of a New Orleans bakery right into your own kitchen with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Let’s dive into creating these mouthwatering delights that never fail to impress!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up image shows flour being poured from a white measuring cup into a clear glass bowl that contains a smooth, light yellow batter. The glass bowl is set on a white marbled surface. The flour looks soft and powdery, blending into the batter below. The scene focuses on the top view of the bowl and the motion of flour falling gently into it, with soft natural light illuminating the textures. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Making classic deep-fried beignets is easier than you think since the ingredients list is straightforward yet essential. Each one plays a key role, whether it’s yeast creating that perfect rise or butter adding richness to the dough’s tender crumb.

Warm water (¾ cup): Activates the yeast for a light and fluffy dough texture.
Granulated sugar (½ cup): Sweetens and helps feed the yeast for fermentation.
Active dry yeast (2¼ teaspoons): The magic that makes the dough rise beautifully.
Large egg (1, room temperature): Adds structure and moisture, binding everything together.
Whole milk or evaporated milk (½ cup, room temperature): Ensures a tender, rich dough.
Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Infuses warmth and subtle aromatic flavor.
All-purpose flour (3¾ to 4 cups, divided): The foundation that builds your dough’s body and texture.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons, room temperature): Brings richness and helps create a soft crumb.
Vegetable oil or peanut oil: For deep frying to crispy, golden perfection.
Powdered sugar (½ cup): The classic dusting that makes beignets so addictively sweet.

TIP

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

How to Make Classic Deep-Fried Beignets Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by pouring the warm water into your mixing bowl, then add the yeast along with half of the granulated sugar. Let this sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes extremely foamy on top—this is your sign the yeast is alive and kicking, ready to make your beignets rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mix in the Wet Ingredients

Once bubbly, add the milk, vanilla extract, remaining sugar, and the egg. Whisk these together until smooth, ensuring they’re fully blended before moving on. This mixture contributes to the tenderness and rich flavor of your dough.

Step 3: Incorporate the Flour and Salt

Attach the dough hook to your mixer and add 1¾ cups of the flour first. Mix to combine smoothly, then add the remaining flour and salt. Mix at medium speed to form your dough base. This step is crucial for building the structure that will hold your airy beignets.

Step 4: Add Butter and Finish Kneading

Add the softened butter one tablespoon at a time, scraping down the bowl as needed. Then, switch to low speed and knead for about 4 minutes until the dough feels smooth and starts to pull away from the sides, but remains slightly sticky to the touch. Adjust with a little more flour if necessary to achieve the perfect texture.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rise

Transfer the dough to a large, lightly oiled bowl, cover, and leave it someplace warm for around 2 hours until doubled in size. If you prefer, you can skip the warm rise and refrigerate the dough for up to 48 hours—just remember to bring it to room temperature before frying.

Step 6: Prepare for Frying

Fill a large pot with about 3 inches of oil and heat to 360°F using a candy thermometer. Set up a wire cooling rack on top of several paper towels to drain the beignets once fried. Keeping your oil at the right temperature is key for that perfect golden crust without absorbing too much oil.

Step 7: Shape the Beignets

On a generously floured surface, roll your dough into a ½-inch thick rectangle. Cut into 2 to 2½-inch squares using a pizza cutter or sharp knife. This uniformity helps your beignets cook evenly and puff perfectly.

Step 8: Fry to Golden Perfection

Carefully add 3 to 4 dough squares to the hot oil at a time. Fry until the bottoms puff up and turn golden brown, then flip and fry the other side. Remove with a spider or slotted spoon and place on the paper towels to drain. Before serving, dust generously with powdered sugar for that signature sweet finish.

How to Serve Classic Deep-Fried Beignets Recipe

Three golden brown dumplings cook in bubbling oil inside a white pan. The dumplings have a crispy texture on the outside with slightly uneven, rounded edges. A metal spider skimmer is lifted over the pan near the top left, showing a fine mesh and a ring handle. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The classic finish for your beignets is a generous dusting of powdered sugar, which adds the perfect delicate sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth texture. You can also experiment with cinnamon sugar or a light drizzle of chocolate sauce for a fun twist.

Side Dishes

Serve your beignets alongside a cup of bold coffee, café au lait, or even hot chocolate for a cozy feel. Fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream can also complement the light, airy texture beautifully without overpowering that classic flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack your beignets high on a pretty platter and surround them with small bowls of fruit preserves, caramel sauce, or nut butter for dipping. They also shine wrapped in parchment paper tied with twine for a charming gift or take-along treat that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your beignets are best fresh but can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 to 2 days. To maintain their crispiness, place a paper towel inside to absorb excess moisture.

Freezing

If you want to keep your beignets longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months. Thaw them briefly before reheating.

Reheating

To revive that fresh-from-the-fryer crunch, reheat your beignets in a 350°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make them chewy and soggy.

FAQs

Can I make this Classic Deep-Fried Beignets Recipe without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! You can mix and knead the dough by hand using a large bowl and some elbow grease. Just be patient until the dough becomes smooth and elastic; it might take a little longer than with a mixer.

What oil is best for frying beignets?

Vegetable oil or peanut oil works best since they have high smoke points and neutral flavors. They ensure your beignets fry evenly without an oily aftertaste.

Can I add fillings to these beignets?

While this Classic Deep-Fried Beignets Recipe focuses on the traditional plain variety, you can certainly experiment by filling them with chocolate, fruit jams, or custards after frying for an extra special treat.

Is it okay to substitute milk with a dairy-free alternative?

Yes, you can substitute whole or evaporated milk with unsweetened almond, soy, or oat milk. Just make sure it’s at room temperature to maintain the proper dough temperature for yeast activity.

How do I know when the oil is the right temperature for frying?

The oil should be around 360°F for perfect frying. Using a candy or deep-fry thermometer helps maintain consistent heat. If the oil is too cool, the beignets absorb too much oil; too hot, and they brown too quickly on the outside but remain raw inside.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about making and sharing this Classic Deep-Fried Beignets Recipe. From mixing the dough to that first warm, sugar-dusted bite, it’s a joyful experience that brings comfort and smiles. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, these beignets are sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves, gather those simple ingredients, and enjoy every delicious moment!