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Fluffy Beignets Recipe Easy New Orleans Classic Treat with Powdered Sugar

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This fluffy beignets recipe delivers a golden, pillowy fried dough dusted generously with powdered sugar, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or any occasion. Inspired by New Orleans classics, it’s quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (300 g)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar (25 g)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup warm whole milk (180 ml), about 110°F/43°C
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (55 g), melted and slightly cooled
  • Vegetable oil for frying (peanut or canola oil preferred)
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk (110°F/43°C) with sugar and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
  3. Combine wet ingredients: Beat eggs lightly in a separate bowl. Add melted butter and the activated yeast mixture.
  4. Make the dough: Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir until a shaggy dough forms. Adjust with flour or milk if too sticky or dry.
  5. Knead: Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic, or knead in a stand mixer on low speed for 5 minutes.
  6. First rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
  7. Roll out dough: Punch down dough and roll out on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness.
  8. Cut beignets: Slice dough into 2 ½-inch squares using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
  9. Heat oil: Fill pot or fryer with oil about 2 inches deep and heat to 350°F (175°C).
  10. Fry: Fry beignets in batches of 3-4 pieces for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and puffed.
  11. Drain and dust: Place fried beignets on a wire rack over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. Dust generously with powdered sugar.
  12. Serve warm: Enjoy fresh and hot for best flavor and texture.

Notes

Maintain oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) to avoid greasy or burnt beignets. Fry in small batches to keep oil temperature stable. Let beignets cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar to help it stick. Dough can be prepared ahead and refrigerated overnight; bring to room temperature before frying. For gluten-free or vegan adaptations, expect texture differences.

Nutrition

Keywords: beignets, New Orleans, fried dough, powdered sugar, easy dessert, breakfast treat, classic recipe