Description
This classic Best Beignets Recipe made with buttermilk produces light, fluffy, and golden French-style doughnuts. These pillow-soft treats are deep-fried to perfection and generously dusted with powdered sugar, making for an irresistible dessert or snack. The recipe features a simple yeast dough enriched with buttermilk, eggs, and butter, delivering a tender crumb and delightful flavor.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 cup warm water (heated to 100-105°F)
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 4 1/3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
For Frying
- 1.5 litres grapeseed oil or neutral-flavored frying oil
Topping
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Whisk well and let the mixture sit for 7-10 minutes until a foamy 'raft' forms on top, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the remaining sugar, melted butter, egg, egg yolk, and buttermilk to the yeast mixture. Whisk together until fully blended.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Add the flour and sea salt to the wet ingredients. Using a hand mixer with a dough hook or a stand mixer, mix until the dough starts to pull away from the bowl and becomes smooth. If using a hand mixer, remove the dough and knead it by hand for about 5 minutes until smooth and less sticky.
- Proof the Dough: Lightly spray the mixing bowl with cooking spray, place the dough back inside, and cover it with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 90 minutes until it doubles in size.
- Roll Out Dough: Lightly flour a flat surface and use a rolling pin to roll the dough out to a 1/2-inch thick rectangle.
- Cut Dough: Using a measuring tape and a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into 2-inch by 3-inch rectangles. Arrange the pieces on a platter, spaced apart, ready for frying.
- Heat Oil and Fry Beignets: Fill a large, deep pan with grapeseed or neutral frying oil, about 2-3 inches deep. Heat the oil to 350°F. Carefully add 5-6 dough pieces to the oil and fry for about 2 minutes on each side until puffed and golden brown. Use tongs to flip halfway through for even cooking. Remove and drain on paper towels. Repeat with remaining dough.
- Coat with Powdered Sugar: Place the powdered sugar in a resealable plastic bag. Add 2-3 warm beignets, seal the bag, and shake gently to coat evenly. Remove and serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the water is warm but not too hot to activate the yeast properly without killing it.
- The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable; add flour sparingly when rolling out.
- Maintain oil temperature at 350°F to ensure even cooking and avoid greasy beignets.
- You can substitute grapeseed oil with other neutral oils like canola or vegetable oil.
- Serve beignets immediately for the best fluffy texture and fresh taste.
- Use a thermometer to check oil temperature for safety and optimal frying.
- Double the powdered sugar for dusting if a sweeter finish is preferred.