Authentic New Orleans Beignets with Powdered Sugar

New Orleans Beignets Recipe

Category: Desserts
Servings: 60 Beignets

New Orleans Beignets are a quintessential Southern treat, offering a taste of New Orleans’ rich culinary tradition. These deep-fried, fluffy pillows of dough are generously dusted with powdered sugar, making them irresistible for anyone with a sweet tooth. While they are a staple at the famous Café du Monde in New Orleans, you can easily recreate these delicious pastries at home with this straightforward recipe. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply craving a sweet indulgence, these beignets will take you straight to the heart of Louisiana.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Prepare the dough:

   • In a small saucepan, melt the butter and combine it with water. Stir in the sugar until it dissolves completely.
   • Add the eggs to the mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
   • Sprinkle in the salt and mix until the dough comes together smoothly.
   • Switch from the mixing paddle to a dough hook and knead the dough briefly.

2. Rest the dough:

   • Transfer the dough onto a work surface. If it feels too soft to handle, cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 5 minutes.
   • Once rested, knead the dough gently to ensure it’s smooth and elastic.

3. First rise:

   • Place the dough in a large bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Let it rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

4. Shape the beignets:

   • After the dough has risen, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/2 inch thickness.
   • Use a sharp knife or pastry cutter to cut the dough into 6 cm (2.5-inch) square pieces.
   • Cover the squares with a clean towel and allow them to rest for an additional 10 minutes.

5. Fry the beignets:

   • Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or pot to around 170°C-180°C (340°F-350°F). You can test the oil temperature by dropping in a small piece of dough—if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready.
   • Gently lower the dough squares into the hot oil, a few at a time, ensuring they don’t stick together.
   • Fry the beignets for approximately 2 minutes, turning them frequently with a spoon to ensure they puff up and turn golden brown. Occasionally spoon the hot oil over the beignets to help them puff up.
   • Once golden, remove the beignets from the oil and drain them on paper towels.

6. Finishing touches:

   • Generously dust the warm beignets with powdered sugar.
   • Serve immediately for the freshest, most delightful experience.

Notes:

• Storage: Beignets are best served fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in the oven to restore some of their crispiness.
• Serving suggestion: Beignets are traditionally served with a hot cup of café au lait or coffee, making for a perfect morning treat.

Enjoy your homemade New Orleans Beignets and savor the flavors of the Big Easy right in your kitchen!