Description
Fluffy, golden pillows of fried dough with a light, sweet finish—these buttermilk beignets are the ultimate treat! Made with simple ingredients and fried to perfection, they’re dusted with powdered sugar and best served warm right out of the pot. These delightful treats are a perfect way to start your morning, end your meal, or simply enjoy as a midday snack. Beignets are traditionally associated with New Orleans, and bringing this iconic dessert to your kitchen is easier than you might think. The slight tang of buttermilk adds a depth of flavor that sets these apart from ordinary fried dough.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil recommended)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Preparation:
Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. Ensure all dry ingredients are well combined to distribute the leavening agents evenly.
Step 2: In another bowl, mix the egg, buttermilk, milk, and melted butter until thoroughly combined. This wet mixture should be smooth and consistent.
Step 3: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to tough beignets.
Step 4: Lightly flour a clean surface. Roll the dough out to a 1/4-inch thickness. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into approximately 2-inch squares.
Step 5: Heat the oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for even cooking.
Step 6: Carefully drop the beignets into the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 1–2 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and puffed up.
Step 7: Remove the beignets from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 8: While still warm, generously dust the beignets with powdered sugar. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Why you’ll love this recipe
This buttermilk beignet recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser because:
- Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Delicious flavor: The combination of buttermilk, sugar, and fried dough creates an irresistible flavor profile.
- Perfect texture: When fried correctly, these beignets are light, fluffy, and melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Impressive presentation: A generous dusting of powdered sugar transforms these simple squares of dough into an elegant dessert.
- Customizable: You can add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a hint of spice, or drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm immediately after frying.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or chicory coffee for an authentic New Orleans experience.
- Offer a variety of toppings like chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, or fresh fruit.
- These beignets also make a delightful addition to brunch.
Tips:
- Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature for consistent cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the pan when frying, as this will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy beignets.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the beignets.
- For the fluffiest beignets, avoid overmixing the dough.
- If the dough is too sticky to work with, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information:
(Approximate values per beignet)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion
Buttermilk Beignets are a delightful treat that brings a taste of New Orleans right to your kitchen. With their fluffy texture, golden-brown crust, and dusting of powdered sugar, these beignets are sure to impress. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to add a little sweetness to their day. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these beignets are guaranteed to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, heat up the oil, and get ready to indulge in a truly special treat.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After mixing, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Allow the dough to come to room temperature before rolling and frying.
Q2: What is the best oil to use for frying?
A: Vegetable oil or canola oil are both excellent choices for frying beignets. They have a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, making them ideal for deep frying.
Q3: How do I keep the beignets warm after frying?
A: To keep the beignets warm, place them on a wire rack in a preheated oven at 200°F (95°C). This will help maintain their warmth without making them soggy.
Q4: Can I add any other flavors to the dough?
A: Absolutely! You can add a pinch of nutmeg, cinnamon, or lemon zest to the dough for a hint of extra flavor. Get creative and experiment with your favorite spices.
Q5: What if I don’t have buttermilk?
A: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to regular milk, and let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This will give the milk a similar tanginess to buttermilk.
