Vanilla French Beignets Classic (Print-Friendly Recipe)

Golden French beignets filled with vanilla, topped with a dusting of powdered sugar. Light and irresistible.

# Ingredients List:

→ Dough

01 - 1 cup warm whole milk (105–115°F)
02 - 1/4 ounce active dry yeast (approximately 2 1/4 teaspoons)
03 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
04 - 1 large egg
05 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
06 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
07 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
08 - 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour

→ For frying and serving

09 - Vegetable oil, for deep frying
10 - Powdered sugar, for dusting

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, active dry yeast, and a pinch of granulated sugar. Allow the mixture to sit for 5 to 10 minutes, until it becomes foamy.
02 - Add the remaining granulated sugar, egg, vanilla extract, kosher salt, and melted unsalted butter to the activated yeast mixture. Whisk until thoroughly blended.
03 - Gradually add 3 1/2 to 4 cups of all-purpose flour to the bowl, mixing until a soft dough forms. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
04 - Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let rise in a warm location for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in volume.
05 - Punch down the risen dough. On a lightly floured work surface, roll the dough out to a 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into 2 to 3 inch squares or rectangles using a sharp knife or pastry cutter.
06 - Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry beignets in small batches for 1 to 2 minutes per side, turning once, until puffed and golden brown.
07 - Remove beignets from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain briefly on paper towels. While still warm, generously coat with powdered sugar and serve immediately.

# Extra Information:

01 - For best texture, serve beignets immediately after frying as they quickly lose their crispness. The dough can be prepared in advance and refrigerated overnight for a more convenient morning fry.