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Simple Vanilla Beignets

Golden Vanilla Beignets Ready to Eat

These simple vanilla beignets are light, fluffy, and perfectly sweet. Enjoy them fresh and warm, dusted with powdered sugar for a classic New Orleans treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 package) active dry yeast
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add the remaining sugar, salt, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture. Mix well.
  3. Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  6. Gently punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough out to about ¼-inch thickness.
  7. Cut the dough into 2-3 inch squares.
  8. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  9. Carefully drop a few beignets at a time into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
  10. Remove the beignets with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  11. Dust generously with powdered sugar and serve immediately.

Notes

Serve these beignets with a side of chocolate sauce or a café au lait for a truly authentic New Orleans experience.