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Classic Beignets (Light, Fluffy New Orleans-Style Donuts)


  • Author: WAFA LI

Ingredients

Scale

For the dough:

  • ½ cup (120ml) warm water (110°F / 45°C)
  • ½ cup (120ml) warm milk
  • ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 4 cups (440–500g) all-purpose flour

For frying & serving:

  • Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil (for deep frying)
  • 2 cups powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

  1. Activate yeast: In a bowl, combine warm water, warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Make dough: Stir in egg, melted butter, and salt. Gradually add flour, 1 cup at a time, until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
  3. Knead: Turn onto floured surface. Knead 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. First rise: Place in greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place 1–1.5 hours, until doubled.
  5. Roll & cut: Punch down dough. Roll to ¼” thickness on floured surface. Cut into 2½” squares (or diamonds).
  6. Second rise: Cover and let rest 20–30 minutes while heating oil.
  7. Fry: Heat 2–3 inches of oil to 360–370°F (180–190°C). Fry beignets 2–3 at a time for 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
  8. Dust generously with powdered sugar while still warm. Serve immediately.
💡 Pro Tips:
Maintain oil temperature—too hot = burnt outside/raw inside; too cool = greasy.
– For extra puff, don’t roll dough thinner than ¼”.
– Make ahead: Refrigerate dough overnight; bring to room temp before rolling.

Prep Time & Nutrition (per beignet, makes ~24):

Prep Time: 30 min (+ rising) | Cook Time: 15 min | Total Time: 2 hr
Servings: 24 | Calories: 110 | Net Carbs: 18g | Fats: 4g | Protein: 2g