Name: New Orleans Beignets
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: New Orleans
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 tsp salt; 3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F); 1/2 cup warm milk; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Powdered sugar, for dusting; Vegetable or canola oil, for frying

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These beignets are golden and crispy on the outside, soft and airy on the inside, and utterly satisfying. They’re easy to make at home with simple ingredients and deliver bakery-quality results. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, they’ll transport you straight to the heart of New Orleans with every bite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Active dry yeast
Granulated sugar
Salt
Warm water
Milk
Eggs
Unsalted butter
Vanilla extract
Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Oil (for frying, such as vegetable or canola)

Directions

In a bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
In a separate large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
Add milk, beaten eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5–7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours or until doubled in size.
Once risen, roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Cut into 2–3 inch squares.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the dough squares a few at a time until golden brown on both sides, about 1–2 minutes per side.
Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 20–24 beignets.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1.5 to 2 hours
Frying time: 15 minutes
Total time: approximately 2.5 hours

Variations

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the powdered sugar for extra flavor.
Fill beignets with pastry cream, chocolate, or fruit preserves for a dessert-style twist.
Use buttermilk instead of regular milk for a subtle tang.
Serve with a dipping sauce such as chocolate ganache or café au lait glaze.
Try making mini beignets for bite-sized treats.

Storage/Reheating

Beignets are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
To reheat, warm them in a 300°F oven for about 5–7 minutes or in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.
Avoid storing beignets in the fridge, as it can make them dense. They can be frozen before frying and cooked directly from frozen—just add a minute or two to the fry time.

FAQs

What are beignets?

Beignets are square pieces of fried dough, often dusted with powdered sugar, originating from French cuisine and made famous in New Orleans.

Can I make beignets ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before rolling and frying.

Why didn’t my beignets puff up?

Your oil may not have been hot enough, or the dough may have been too thick or not rested long enough.

Can I bake beignets instead of frying?

Traditional beignets are fried, but they can be baked at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, though they will be less crispy.

What oil is best for frying beignets?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.

How do I know when the oil is ready?

Use a thermometer to reach 350°F, or drop a small piece of dough in—if it sizzles and floats, it’s ready.

Can I use instant yeast?

Yes, instant yeast can be used. Skip the proofing step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

How thin should I roll the dough?

About ¼ inch thick is ideal—thick enough to puff, thin enough to cook through quickly.

What’s the best way to coat them in powdered sugar?

Toss them in a paper bag with powdered sugar or use a fine mesh sieve to sprinkle over the top.

Are beignets the same as donuts?

Not exactly—beignets are typically square, don’t have holes, and are lighter and crispier than most donuts.

Conclusion

New Orleans Beignets are a delicious way to bring the spirit of the French Quarter into your own kitchen. With their airy texture and iconic powdered sugar topping, they’re perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special. Once you make these once, they’ll likely become a cherished recipe in your collection.