Introduction
Indulge in the delightful taste of French Quarter Beignets, a classic New Orleans treat that is crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. These fried dough pastries are coated in a generous dusting of powdered sugar, making them a favorite for breakfast or dessert.
Why Make This Recipe
Making your own French Quarter Beignets at home allows you to enjoy a taste of New Orleans wherever you are. The process of preparing the dough, deep-frying to perfection, and coating them in powdered sugar is simple yet satisfying. Plus, nothing beats the aroma of freshly fried beignets in your kitchen!
How to Make French Quarter Beignets
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups lukewarm water (110 degrees F)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 envelope active dry yeast
- 2 eggs (slightly beaten)
- 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 7 cups bread flour
- 1/4 cup shortening
- Nonstick spray
- Oil (for deep-frying)
- 3 cups confectioners’ sugar
Directions:
- Mix water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl and let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Beat eggs, salt, and evaporated milk in a small bowl. Add this mixture to the yeast mixture.
- Gradually stir in the bread flour, adding the shortening along the way. Knead the dough until smooth and let it rise for at least 2 hours.
- Prepare a bag with confectioners’ sugar for coating.
- Heat oil in a deep saucepan. Roll out the dough, cut it into squares, and deep-fry until golden.
- Drain the fried beignets on paper towels and toss them in the confectioners’ sugar bag to coat evenly. Serve warm.
How to Serve French Quarter Beignets
Enjoy these warm and freshly made beignets for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat any time of the day. Pair them with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a comforting indulgence.
How to Store French Quarter Beignets
Store any leftover beignets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes until warm.
Tips to Make French Quarter Beignets
- Ensure the oil is at the right temperature before frying to achieve a crispy exterior.
- Dust the beignets with powdered sugar immediately after frying for the best coating.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot when frying to maintain the oil temperature.
Variation
For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a subtle spice flavor.
FAQs
- Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight before frying.
- Can I bake the beignets instead of frying them? While baking may result in a different texture, you can try baking the dough squares at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes.
- Can I freeze the beignets for later? It’s best to enjoy them fresh, but you can freeze unfried dough squares and fry them when ready to serve for a convenient treat.
