Buttermilk Beignets: Fluffy, Crisp-Fried Deliciousness Recipe

Introduction

Buttermilk beignets are delightfully fluffy, golden-fried treats that melt in your mouth with every bite. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, these classic beignets are easy to make at home and sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Step 1: Gather your ingredients and measure them out to ensure a smooth cooking process.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground nutmeg until well combined.
3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter, making sure the butter is not too hot to avoid cooking the eggs.
4. Step 4: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold together with a spatula or wooden spoon. It’s okay if the batter is slightly lumpy; do not overmix.
5. Step 5: Let the batter rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the leavening agents to activate.
6. Step 6: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or heavy skillet to about 350°F (175°C), filling it 2-3 inches deep.
7. Step 7: Carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil using a spoon or small ice cream scoop. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
8. Step 8: Remove the beignets with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
9. Step 9: Repeat frying with remaining batter, keeping an eye on the oil temperature.
10. Step 10: Dust the finished beignets generously with powdered sugar.
11. Step 11: Serve warm, plain or alongside fruit preserves, chocolate sauce, or honey for extra indulgence.
12. Step 12: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven for a few minutes to regain crispiness.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, substitute half the all-purpose flour with bread flour.
• Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a teaspoon of orange zest to the batter for a twist.
• Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature around 350°F for perfect frying without soggy beignets.
• Serve with a dusting of cinnamon sugar instead of powdered sugar for added warmth.

Storage

Store leftover beignets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a toaster oven for a few minutes to restore their crisp exterior and warm, fluffy interior. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It’s best to fry beignets soon after mixing to get maximum fluffiness, as the leavening agents start working immediately. You can prepare the batter and refrigerate for up to 1 hour, but allow it to come to room temperature before frying.

What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can make a substitute by adding 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1/2 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This mimics the acidity of buttermilk needed for the recipe.

Buttermilk Beignets: Fluffy, Crisp-Fried Deliciousness Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 101 reviews

This Buttermilk Beignets recipe delivers delectably fluffy, golden-fried pastries dusted with powdered sugar. These beignets boast a light texture achieved by a combination of baking powder and baking soda activated in the batter. Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender inside, they make a delightful treat to enjoy fresh and warm, ideal for breakfast, dessert, or any time you crave a sweet indulgence.

• Author: Mick
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 16–20 beignets 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: French-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Wet Ingredients

• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For Frying and Serving

• Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2-3 inches deep in pot)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Gather Your Ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process without interruptions.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground nutmeg until evenly combined.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk buttermilk, eggs, vanilla extract, and gently melted butter, making sure the butter isn’t too hot to prevent scrambling the eggs.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently fold the mixture with a spatula or wooden spoon just until combined; small lumps are okay to keep the batter tender.
5. Rest the Batter: Let the batter rest for 10-15 minutes to activate the leavening agents for a fluffier result.
6. Heat the Oil: In a deep pot or heavy-bottomed skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat to 350°F (175°C), ensuring enough oil to submerge the beignets (2-3 inches deep).
7. Fry the Beignets: Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil. Fry each for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Drain the Beignets: Remove beignets with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
9. Repeat: Continue frying the remaining batter, monitoring the oil temperature to maintain 350°F.
10. Dust with Powdered Sugar: After frying all beignets, generously dust them with powdered sugar for a classic sweet finish.
11. Serve Warm: Enjoy the beignets fresh and warm, optionally accompanied by fruit preserves, chocolate sauce, or honey.
12. Store Leftovers: Keep any leftover beignets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven for a few minutes to restore crispiness.

Notes

• Do not overmix the batter to ensure a light, fluffy texture.
• Maintain consistent oil temperature at 350°F to prevent soggy or burnt beignets.
• Beignets are best eaten fresh but can be stored and reheated as noted.
• Use a deep pot or skillet for safe frying and to allow even cooking.
• Optional toppings like cinnamon sugar or dipping sauces enhance flavor variations.

Keywords: buttermilk beignets, fried pastries, fluffy beignets, easy dessert, New Orleans beignets