Name: Classic Beignet Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Creole
Ingredients: ¾ cup warm water (110–115°F); 1 teaspoon rapid rise yeast; 1 egg (lightly beaten); ½ cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons shortening; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 dash nutmeg; 3¼ cups all-purpose flour; 1 quart vegetable oil (for frying); ½ cup powdered sugar

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 14 reviews

If you’ve ever craved a taste of New Orleans right in your own kitchen, this Classic Beignet Recipe is an absolute must-try. These fluffy, golden squares of fried dough, dusted generously with powdered sugar, are delightfully crisp on the outside and irresistibly tender inside. Perfect for sharing (or not!), these beignets bring together simple pantry staples to create a truly magical treat that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this recipe captures the essence of southern charm in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A smooth, round ball of pale beige dough with a slightly shiny surface sits inside a white bowl with soft curves, placed on a white marbled texture surface. The dough appears soft and well-risen, filling the center of the bowl evenly with small visible air bubbles on its surface. The background is softly lit, highlighting the dough's texture and the clean, simple lines of the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Making this recipe is easier than you think because the ingredient list stays wonderfully simple yet essential. Each component plays its own role in delivering that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and that unmistakable golden color.

¾ cup warm water (110–115°F): Activates the yeast and helps create a light, airy dough.
1 teaspoon rapid rise yeast: Essential for the dough to rise quickly, giving beignets their fluffy texture.
1 egg (lightly beaten): Adds richness and structure to the dough.
½ cup heavy cream: Contributes to a tender crumb and slightly indulgent flavor.
2 tablespoons shortening: Helps with flakiness and keeps the dough moist.
¼ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough just right without overpowering.
1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out flavor.
1 dash nutmeg: Adds a subtle warmth and depth to the dough’s taste.
3¼ cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the dough, providing structure.
1 quart vegetable oil (for frying): The medium for frying that creates the perfect crisp exterior.
½ cup powdered sugar: Used generously for that iconic sweet coating.

How to Make Classic Beignet Recipe

Step 1: Activate the yeast

Start by placing the warm water into a small bowl and sprinkling the yeast on top. Stir gently to dissolve the yeast, then let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly. This signals a healthy, active yeast ready to bring life to your dough.

Step 2: Mix wet ingredients and seasoning

In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine the beaten egg, heavy cream, shortening, granulated sugar, salt, and that lovely pinch of nutmeg. Mixing these well melds the flavors and preps the perfect base for our dough.

Step 3: Add yeast mixture

Pour the activated yeast into your wet ingredients and stir gently to integrate. This step infuses the dough with its signature lift and airy texture.

Step 4: Incorporate the flour

Slowly add the all-purpose flour to the wet mixture. Using a dough hook on medium speed is ideal here—mix until your dough is smooth yet slightly sticky, which means it’s perfectly hydrated and ready to rise.

Step 5: Let the dough rise

Form your dough into a ball, place it in a greased bowl, and cover it. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, during which the dough will double in size, becoming light and airy—the hallmark of a good beignet.

Step 6: Heat the oil

While the dough is rising, prepare your frying station. Heat 3 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy pot over medium-high heat, aiming for a frying temperature between 360 and 370 degrees Fahrenheit. Proper oil temperature is crucial for golden, non-greasy beignets.

Step 7: Roll and cut the dough

On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out your risen dough to about ½ inch thickness. Take care not to overwork it to maintain great texture. Cut the dough into roughly 2½-inch squares—perfect bite-sized squares that crisp up beautifully.

Step 8: Fry the beignets

Fry the dough squares in batches, carefully lowering them into the hot oil. Fry each side for 1 to 2 minutes or until each piece turns a glorious golden brown. This quick frying gives beignets their signature light crunch.

Step 9: Drain and dust with sugar

Using tongs, transfer the hot beignets onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. While they’re still warm, dust generously with powdered sugar, coating every corner and thickening the sweetness for that authentic finish.

How to Serve Classic Beignet Recipe

A white plate with a wavy edge holds about ten golden-brown square dough pieces topped with a thick, even layer of white powdered sugar. The dough pieces are soft with slight puffiness, stacked closely together. On the right side of the plate is a small white bowl filled with smooth light yellow cream. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While the powdered sugar dusting is traditional and beloved, you can also sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar or drizzle with a light honey glaze for a fresh twist. Fresh fruit compotes or a berry sauce on the side can complement the richness beautifully, turning these beignets into a little celebration on a plate.

Side Dishes

Serve these beignets with fresh coffee or even a sweet iced tea for a southern-inspired pairing. If you’re hosting brunch, pair them with creamy scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or fresh fruit to balance sweetness with savory and fresh flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, stack beignets in a pyramid and place a small bowl of chocolate or caramel dipping sauce alongside. You can also create a beignet platter with assorted toppings so guests can customize each bite. For a festive occasion, dust with colored sugars or edible flowers for a gorgeous visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Fresh beignets are best enjoyed immediately, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. They may lose some of their crispness but will remain deliciously soft inside.

Freezing

You can freeze unfried dough squares by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw, let rise briefly, and fry as usual.

Reheating

To bring back that freshly fried texture, reheat leftover beignets in a hot oven (about 350°F) for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it softens the exterior too much, losing their signature crunch.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of rapid rise yeast?

Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast, but you’ll need to let it proof longer—about 10 minutes in warm water with a pinch of sugar—to ensure it activates properly before mixing.

Why is my dough sticky even after adding the flour?

This dough should be slightly sticky; if it’s too wet, add flour a tablespoon at a time. Remember, a sticky dough yields a softer beignet, so avoid over-flouring.

How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature?

A kitchen thermometer is your best friend for frying. Aim for 360 to 370°F for perfect golden beignets. Without a thermometer, test by dropping a small piece of dough—the dough should bubble and rise quickly without burning.

Can I bake beignets instead of frying them?

Traditional beignets are deep-fried, which gives them their distinctive texture and flavor. Baking is possible but won’t deliver the same light, crispy exterior. If you prefer baking, consider trying a doughnut or fritter recipe instead.

What’s the best way to dust powdered sugar evenly?

Use a fine mesh sieve to dust powdered sugar evenly over warm beignets. This technique ensures an attractive, delicate coating that isn’t clumpy or overwhelming.

Final Thoughts

Whipping up this Classic Beignet Recipe in your kitchen is truly a joyful culinary adventure that rewards you with warm, pillowy treats bursting with comforting flavor. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned beignet lover, this recipe invites you to savor the simple magic of homemade goodness. It’s the perfect companion for leisurely mornings and spontaneous celebrations alike. Go ahead, grab your apron, and make these irresistible beignets your new favorite indulgence!