New Orleans-Style Beignets

These easy New Orleans-style beignets will transport you right to the French Quarter. Light, fluffy, and coated in powdered sugar, they are perfect for breakfast or dessert. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply indulging yourself, these beignets bring joy to any occasion with their delightful sweetness and airy texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these delicious treats in no time.
• Perfectly Sweet: The combination of sugar in the dough and powdered sugar on top creates a delightful balance.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert—they’re great any time of day.
• Crowd Pleaser: These beignets are sure to impress your family and friends at gatherings and celebrations!
• Cultural Experience: Making New Orleans-style beignets is like bringing a piece of the French Quarter into your kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

To make delicious New Orleans-style beignets, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large microwave-safe bowl
• Wooden spoon or sturdy spatula
• Dutch oven
• Deep-fry thermometer
• Baking sheet
• Fine-mesh strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: This heavy pot retains heat well, providing even frying temperatures for perfect beignets.
• Deep-fry thermometer: Essential for measuring oil temperature accurately, ensuring crispy results without burning.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 3/4 cup water
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, very soft
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, divided, plus more for kneading and cutting
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

For Frying & Serving

• 1 quart peanut or vegetable oil, plus more for the bowl
• 1 cup powdered sugar

How to Make New Orleans-Style Beignets

Step 1: Warm the Milk Mixture

1. Place 3/4 cup water and 1/2 cup whole milk in a large microwave-safe bowl.
2. Microwave on full power for about 1 1/2 minutes. Alternatively, warm in a small saucepan over medium heat until just warm (cooler than 100°F).

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

1. Whisk in 1/3 cup granulated sugar into the warmed milk mixture.
2. Sprinkle with 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast and set aside for about 15 minutes until foamy.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Add 1 beaten egg, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 2 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture.
2. Beat with a wooden spoon until thick but smooth. Then add remaining flour gradually until just combined.

Step 4: Prepare Dough for Rising

1. Dust a work surface with about 1/4 cup flour and place the dough onto it.
2. Gently fold it over itself about 3 to 4 times; shape it into a round disc.
3. Place in an oiled bowl and cover with a clean towel.

Step 5: Let It Rise

Set aside in a warm area until doubled in size (about 1 ½ to 2 hours) or refrigerate overnight covered with plastic wrap.

Step 6: Heat Oil for Frying

Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches about 370ºF. Line a baking sheet with paper towels for draining.

Step 7: Roll Out Dough

Dust the work surface again with flour; roll out dough into a rectangle approximately 17×11 inches thick (about ¼ inch). Cut into squares (about two inches).

Step 8: Fry Beignets

Fry squares in batches of three or four:
– Carefully add them to hot oil using hands or tongs.
– Use a spoon to ladle hot oil over them while frying each side until golden brown (about 2 minutes per side).

Step 9: Drain Beignets

Transfer fried beignets onto the prepared baking sheet lined with paper towels.

Step 10: Dust with Sugar

Just before serving while still warm, generously dust with powdered sugar using a fine-mesh strainer.

Now you have delicious New Orleans-style beignets ready to enjoy!

How to Serve New Orleans-Style Beignets

New Orleans-style beignets are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Each serving suggestion adds a unique twist, enhancing the experience of these fluffy pastries.

With Coffee or Chicory

• Classic Café au Lait: Pair your beignets with a hot cup of café au lait for a traditional New Orleans breakfast.
• Chicory Coffee: Serve with chicory coffee for a slightly bitter and rich flavor that complements the sweetness.

As Dessert

• Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the beignets for an indulgent dessert treat.
• Fruit Compote: Top with seasonal fruit compote for a refreshing and fruity contrast to the fried dough.

For Brunch Gatherings

• Mimosa Bar: Create a mimosa bar with various juices to enhance your brunch experience alongside the beignets.
• Savory Dishes: Serve alongside savory dishes like eggs Benedict for a delicious mix of flavors.

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How to Perfect New Orleans-Style Beignets

To ensure your New Orleans-style beignets turn out perfectly, follow these helpful tips that guarantee light, fluffy results every time.

• Use Fresh Yeast: Always check the expiration date on your yeast. Fresh yeast ensures better rising and fluffiness in your beignets.
• Control Temperature: Keep your oil at 370ºF while frying; too hot will burn them, and too cold will make them greasy.
• Don’t Overwork Dough: Gently fold the dough rather than kneading it too much. This helps maintain their airy texture.
• Chill Before Frying: Letting the dough chill for about 20 minutes before frying helps it hold its shape better in hot oil.
• Dust Generously with Powdered Sugar: A generous dusting of powdered sugar adds sweetness and makes them look enticing!

Best Side Dishes for New Orleans-Style Beignets

When enjoying New Orleans-style beignets, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Consider these delicious options:

1. Grits: Creamy grits offer a savory balance to the sweet beignets.
2. Bacon-Wrapped Dates: These sweet-and-salty bites pair wonderfully as an appetizer alongside your treats.
3. Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and contrasts nicely with fried pastries.
4. Eggs Any Style: Scrambled or poached eggs provide protein and complement the fluffy texture of beignets.
5. Potato Hash: A hearty potato hash provides a satisfying side that’s perfect for brunch.
6. Cajun Sausage Links: Spicy sausage links add bold flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of beignets.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making New Orleans-style beignets can be a fun experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the yeast activation: Ensure you allow the yeast to become foamy. This step is crucial for proper rising.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense beignets. Too much flour can ruin the texture.
• Frying oil temperature too high or low: Use a thermometer to maintain 370ºF for even cooking and prevent burning.
• Overworking the dough: Gently fold the dough instead of kneading it aggressively. Overworking can make your beignets tough.
• Serving cold: Serve beignets warm with powdered sugar for the best flavor. Room-temperature beignets lose their charm.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing New Orleans-Style Beignets

• Freeze un-fried dough squares on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating New Orleans-Style Beignets

• Oven: Preheat to 350ºF and warm for about 5-7 minutes. This keeps them crispy.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds, but this may make them soft.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, flipping until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making New Orleans-style beignets.

What are New Orleans-Style Beignets?

New Orleans-style beignets are fluffy fried pastries covered in powdered sugar. They are popular in the French Quarter and often served with coffee.

Can I use different oils for frying beignets?

Yes, while peanut oil is traditional, vegetable or canola oil works well too. Choose oils with high smoke points.

How do I know when my beignets are done frying?

Beignets should turn golden brown on both sides, usually taking about 1-2 minutes per side.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can refrigerate the dough overnight, which enhances flavor and makes it easier to work with.

Final Thoughts

These New Orleans-style beignets are a delightful treat that brings joy with every bite. They’re perfect for breakfast or dessert and can easily be customized with flavors like chocolate or cinnamon. Try making them today and enjoy their amazing taste!