Vanilla French Beignets Pastries (Print-Friendly Version)

Soft French beignets, infused with vanilla, fried golden, and covered in sweet powdered sugar.

# What You’ll Need to Make This:

→ Beignet Dough

01 - 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
02 - 180 millilitres warm water
03 - 50 grams granulated sugar
04 - 2 large eggs
05 - 120 millilitres whole milk
06 - 45 grams unsalted butter, melted
07 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
08 - 500 grams all-purpose flour
09 - 1 pinch salt

→ For Frying and Topping

10 - Vegetable oil, for deep frying
11 - Powdered sugar, for dusting

# How to Prepare:

01 - Combine active dry yeast with warm water and a pinch of sugar in a bowl. Allow to stand for 5 minutes until frothy.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, eggs, whole milk, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract until well blended.
03 - Gradually incorporate all-purpose flour and salt into the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Knead until smooth and elastic.
04 - Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm environment for 1 to 2 hours or until doubled in size.
05 - Roll the dough onto a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1.3 centimetres. Cut into squares or circles as desired.
06 - Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 175°C. Fry beignets in batches for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
07 - While still warm, dust generously with powdered sugar and serve immediately.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate overnight for a slower rise and improved flavour.
02 - Enhance depth by adding a hint of nutmeg or extra vanilla extract to the dough.