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Classic French Donuts

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Classic French Donuts, or beignets, are soft, airy squares of dough fried until golden and dusted with powdered sugar. These pillowy treats are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack with coffee, delivering a touch of Parisian indulgence in every bite.

  • Total Time: 2 hours
  • Yield: 20–24 beignets

Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm milk
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Vegetable or canola oil (for frying)
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let sit until foamy, about 5–10 minutes.
  2. Add eggs, butter, remaining sugar, salt, and vanilla. Gradually mix in flour to form a soft dough.
  3. Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
  4. Punch down the dough and roll it out to 1/2-inch thickness on a floured surface.
  5. Cut into 2-inch squares and let rest for 15–20 minutes.
  6. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry beignets in batches, 1–2 minutes per side, until golden.
  7. Drain on paper towels and dust generously with powdered sugar while still warm.

Notes

  • Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a citrusy twist.
  • Fill with pastry cream or jam after frying for a surprise center.
  • Mix cinnamon with powdered sugar for a spiced finish.
  • Best enjoyed fresh, but can be reheated in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes.
  • Author: liinaa
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Dessert
  • Method: Deep Frying
  • Cuisine: French
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 beignet
  • Calories: 140
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 40mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg