Vanilla French Beignets – A French Pastry Delight

If you love French pastry and crave something light, airy, and dusted with powdered sugar, then this Vanilla French Beignets recipe is for you! These golden, pillowy treats are a classic Caribbean dessert with French roots, featuring a sweet vanilla flavor that makes them absolutely irresistible.

Whether you’re serving them as lunch appetizers, a breakfast treat, or a delightful dessert, these beignets recipes are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With a crisp exterior and a soft, fluffy center, they’re the perfect balance of texture and taste. Follow along for the best beignet recipe that brings a little taste of France into your home!

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Why You’ll Love This French Beignets Recipe

✔️ Light & Airy Texture – Crispy on the outside, soft and pillowy inside.
✔️ Rich Vanilla Flavor – Infused with fragrant vanilla for extra depth.
✔️ Easy to Make – Simple dough that comes together quickly.
✔️ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great as lunch appetizers, breakfast, or dessert.
✔️ French Bakery Experience at Home – Enjoy the flavors of France without leaving your kitchen.

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Ingredients for Vanilla French Beignets

To make this delicious beignet recipe, you’ll need:

For the Dough:

• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• ½ cup warm water (110°F / 45°C)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup whole milk, warmed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For Frying:

• 4 cups vegetable oil (for deep frying)

For Dusting & Serving:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean powder (optional, for extra vanilla flavor)

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How to Make Vanilla French Beignets Step-by-Step

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

• In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast.
• Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the warm milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt.
• Add the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
• Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
• Knead the dough until smooth, then mix in the melted butter.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

• Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Roll & Cut the Dough

• On a floured surface, roll out the dough to ¼-inch thickness.
• Cut into 2-inch squares or circles using a knife or cookie cutter.

Step 5: Heat the Oil & Fry the Beignets

• Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or pot to 350°F (175°C).
• Fry the beignets in small batches for 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown.
• Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 6: Dust with Powdered Sugar & Serve

• While warm, generously sprinkle powdered sugar and vanilla bean powder over the beignets.
• Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Kitchen Equipment Needed for This French Pastry

✔️ Mixing Bowls – For preparing the dough.
✔️ Rolling Pin – To roll out the dough evenly.
✔️ Sharp Knife or Cookie Cutter – For shaping the beignets.
✔️ Deep Fryer or Heavy Pot – For frying.
✔️ Slotted Spoon – To remove beignets from hot oil.
✔️ Paper Towels – To drain excess oil.

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Expert Tips for the Best Beignet Recipe

✔️ Use Warm Liquids – Warm water and milk help activate the yeast properly.
✔️ Don’t Overwork the Dough – Too much kneading can make the beignets dense.
✔️ Let the Dough Rise Fully – This ensures a light, airy texture.
✔️ Maintain the Right Oil Temperature – 350°F (175°C) is ideal for even cooking.
✔️ Serve Immediately – Beignets taste best fresh and warm.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid in Beignets Recipes

❌ Skipping the Yeast Activation – If the yeast doesn’t foam, your dough won’t rise.
❌ Rolling the Dough Too Thick or Too Thin – ¼-inch thickness is perfect for fluffy beignets.
❌ Overcrowding the Fryer – Cook in batches to ensure even frying.
❌ Not Draining Properly – Excess oil can make beignets greasy.

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Variations & Substitutions for Different Vanilla Recipes

🍩 Chocolate-Filled Beignets: Fill with melted chocolate or Nutella before frying.
🍓 Fruit-Flavored Beignets: Add citrus zest or mashed banana to the dough.
🥥 Caribbean Dessert Twist: Coat with coconut sugar for a tropical flavor.
🌿 Gluten-Free Beignets: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

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Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with French Beignets

☕ Café au Lait – A classic French pairing for a true café-style experience.
🍓 Fresh Berries – A light, refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
🍯 Honey or Caramel Drizzle – For an extra layer of flavor.
🍦 Vanilla Ice Cream – Serve warm beignets with a scoop of ice cream for a dreamy dessert.

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How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

🔹 Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
🔹 Freeze: Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat before serving.
🔹 Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes or microwave for 15 seconds.

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Conclusion

This Vanilla French Beignets recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves French pastry and Caribbean desserts. With their crispy golden exterior, soft airy center, and delicate vanilla flavor, they’re perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even lunch appetizers.

Try this beignet recipe today and let us know how you like it! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and subscribe for more delicious vanilla recipes and doughnut recipes!

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