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Vanilla French Beignets: A Deliciously Fluffy and Fragrant Treat

Vanilla French Beignets:

My grandmother used to say, “The best way to sweeten life is with a little fried dough and a lot of love.” That’s exactly what these Vanilla French Beignets are—pillowy, golden bites of joy that take you straight to a Parisian café. We make them every Eid morning, and they vanish faster than we can fry them! Give this recipe a try and bring some warmth and sweetness to your table.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

  • 3½ cups all-purpose flour

  • ¼ cup sugar

  • 1 tsp active dry yeast

  • 1 cup warm milk

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter

  • 1 tsp salt

  • Vegetable oil for frying

For the Coating:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Toppings:

  • Chocolate sauce, fresh berries, or whipped cream

Instructions

  1. Activate Yeast: Warm milk (not hot), add yeast + pinch of sugar. Let it froth (5–10 mins).

  2. Mix Dough: Combine flour, sugar, salt. Add yeast mix, eggs, vanilla, butter. Mix into soft dough.

  3. Knead: On a floured surface, knead until smooth (5–8 mins).

  4. Rise: Place in oiled bowl, cover, let rise 1 hour until doubled.

  5. Shape: Roll out to ½ inch, cut into 2–3 inch squares or triangles.

  6. Fry: Heat oil (350°F). Fry in batches 2–3 mins per side until golden. Drain on paper towels.

  7. Coat: Mix powdered sugar + vanilla, toss warm beignets generously.

Notes

  • Make the dough ahead and refrigerate after rising.

  • Freeze raw cut dough for up to 1 month.

  • Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the sugar for a cozy twist.

  • Serve warm with tea or coffee for the ultimate comfort.

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