Buttermilk Beignets: Fluffy, Crisp-Fried Deliciousness Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- Gather Your Ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process without interruptions.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground nutmeg until evenly combined.
- 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.
- 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.
- Rest the Batter: Let the batter rest for 10-15 minutes to activate the leavening agents for a fluffier result.
- 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).
- 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.
- Drain the Beignets: Remove beignets with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Repeat: Continue frying the remaining batter, monitoring the oil temperature to maintain 350°F.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: After frying all beignets, generously dust them with powdered sugar for a classic sweet finish.
- Serve Warm: Enjoy the beignets fresh and warm, optionally accompanied by fruit preserves, chocolate sauce, or honey.
- 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
