Homemade Vanilla French Beignets: The Perfect Fluffy Pastry Recipe

Thank you so much for stopping by today! Truly—sharing this recipe means a lot to me, because there’s just something magical about bringing a little French café charm right into your kitchen. These Homemade Vanilla French Beignets are soft, fluffy, lightly sweetened pillows of joy—and once you try them fresh and warm, dusted with powdered sugar? You’ll understand why I call them perfect.

If you’re looking for a treat that’s impressive but not intimidating, you’re in for a delicious adventure. And hey, if you’re the kind who loves having these kinds of recipes delivered straight to your inbox (no judgment—I’m the same), be sure to subscribe below so you never miss a baking moment.

What Are Homemade Vanilla French Beignets?

Think of beignets as the French cousin of doughnuts—airy, yeasted pastries that are deep-fried until golden and then showered in powdered sugar. They’re a New Orleans staple, but their roots are purely French, and they’re traditionally served with café au lait. These are different from cake-style doughnuts—they’re made with a yeasted dough, which gives them their signature light and fluffy interior.

And the vanilla in these? It’s not just a background note—it shines. That subtle sweetness rounds out every bite and makes them totally addictive.

Why You’ll Love These Beignets

• Fluffy and golden with a melt-in-your-mouth interior
• Gently sweet with warm vanilla flavor
• Make-ahead friendly – the dough rises overnight!
• Perfect for brunch, parties, or just because
• They’re fun to make – and even more fun to eat

What Do They Taste Like?

Imagine biting into a warm cloud, with just enough crisp on the outside and an incredibly soft, pillowy inside. The touch of vanilla adds warmth, and the powdered sugar on top? It melts slightly into the pastry and gives that iconic beignet finish. These are lightly sweetened, which makes them perfect on their own or with a dipping sauce (hello, chocolate ganache or raspberry coulis!).

Benefits of Making These at Home

• No preservatives or additives—just real, simple ingredients.
• You can customize the size, flavor, and even the shape!
• They’re surprisingly budget-friendly.
• Way fresher than anything store-bought or frozen.

Ingredients

• ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F)
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste for more flavor!)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
• ½ tsp salt
• Oil, for frying (vegetable or canola)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk and wooden spoon (or stand mixer with dough hook)
• Rolling pin
• Pizza cutter or sharp knife
• Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
• Slotted spoon or spider strainer
• Wire cooling rack
• Candy thermometer (for oil temp accuracy)

Ingredient Substitutions & Add-Ins

• Vanilla: Try almond extract or orange blossom water for a twist.
• Milk: Use dairy-free milk if needed—almond or oat milk work well.
• Add-ins: Mix cinnamon into the dough or add lemon zest for a citrusy spin.
• Dipping sauces: Serve with Nutella, fruit jam, or honey butter for something extra.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. Mix the Dough

Whisk in sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla, and melted butter. Add flour and salt gradually, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead until smooth and elastic (about 5–7 minutes by hand or with a dough hook).

3. Let It Rise

Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size—about 1.5 to 2 hours. For overnight beignets, you can refrigerate the dough after kneading and let it rise slowly.

4. Roll & Cut

Turn out the dough on a floured surface. Roll it to about ¼-inch thickness. Cut into 2–3 inch squares using a knife or pizza cutter.

5. Heat the Oil

In a deep pot, heat oil to 350°F. Fry 2–3 beignets at a time, about 1 minute per side, or until golden brown and puffed.

6. Drain & Dust

Use a slotted spoon to transfer beignets to a cooling rack lined with paper towels. While still warm, dust generously with powdered sugar.

The smell when this is frying? INCREDIBLE. I’m kicking myself for not having shot it—it’s that good.

What to Serve With Vanilla Beignets

• Café au lait or espresso—a classic pairing!
• Hot chocolate with whipped cream
• Fresh berries and whipped cream for a plated dessert
• Fruit compotes or jams as dipping options

Tips for the Fluffiest Beignets

• Let the dough rise fully—don’t rush this step.
• Use a thermometer to keep oil between 350–360°F.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot; give them space to puff.
• Dust with powdered sugar while still warm so it melts slightly.
• Leftover dough can be re-rolled once—any more and they may get tough.

How to Store & Reheat

• Best fresh—beignets are at their peak right after frying.
• To store: Keep in an airtight container at room temp for up to 1 day.
• To reheat: Warm in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes.
• Freeze uncooked: Freeze cut dough on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Fry from frozen, just add 1–2 mins to cook time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I bake beignets instead of frying?

You can, but they’ll lose the signature puff and texture. Frying gives the authentic result.

Can I prep the dough ahead of time?

Yes! Refrigerate the dough overnight after kneading. Bring it to room temp before rolling and cutting.

Do beignets have filling?

Traditionally no, but you can pipe in jam or custard if you’re feeling adventurous!

Final Thoughts

These Homemade Vanilla French Beignets are everything a sweet pastry should be—light, fluffy, rich with vanilla, and completely irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a weekend brunch or a cozy morning treat, this recipe is one that invites smiles around the table.

If you give them a try, I’d love to see how they turn out! Leave a review below or tag me over on Pinterest. Seriously—your photos make my day! 💛

More Sweet Recipes You’ll Love

• Easter Cake Mix Cookie Bars – Soft, chewy, and ready for any celebration!
• Blueberry Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting – A bright, tangy classic bursting with berry flavor.
• Lemon Cake to Die For – Ultra-moist and zesty with an irresistible glaze.

Nutritional Info (Per Beignet, Approximate)

• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 35mg

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