Name: Classic Beignets Recipe with Powdered Sugar Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Creole
Ingredients: ¾ cup warm water (110–115°F); 1 teaspoon rapid rise yeast; 1 egg (lightly beaten); ½ cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons shortening; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 dash nutmeg; 3¼ cups all-purpose flour; 1 quart vegetable oil (for frying); ½ cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 4 reviews

If you have a soft spot for warm, sweet treats that feel like a hug in every bite, you’re going to adore this Classic Beignets Recipe with Powdered Sugar Recipe. These airy, pillowy fried dough squares, dusted generously with powdered sugar, are a beloved indulgence that brings New Orleans charm straight to your kitchen. Perfectly crispy on the outside yet tender and fluffy inside, this recipe combines simple, pantry-friendly ingredients to deliver that authentic beignet experience every time. Whether you’re craving a breakfast delight, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a festive gathering showstopper, this recipe invites you to savor the magic of classic French-inspired comfort food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A smooth, round ball of pale dough with slight texture sits inside a light green mixing bowl. The dough looks soft and slightly shiny, showing it has risen well. The bowl has a wide rim and handles on the sides. The whole setup rests on a white marbled surface, giving a clean and fresh feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Before diving into the magic of mixing and frying, let’s talk ingredients. The beauty of this Classic Beignets Recipe with Powdered Sugar Recipe lies in its simplicity—each component plays a crucial role in building that perfect texture and flavor, from the yeast that makes the dough rise to the nutmeg that adds a subtle warm note.

¾ cup warm water (110–115°F): Ideal temperature to activate the yeast without killing it.
1 teaspoon rapid rise yeast: The powerhouse that helps your dough become fluffy and light.
1 egg (lightly beaten): Adds richness and structure to the dough.
½ cup heavy cream: Contributes moisture and tenderness for a melt-in-your-mouth feel.
2 tablespoons shortening: Keeps the beignets tender and adds subtle flavor.
¼ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough just right, balancing flavors.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
1 dash nutmeg: A slight sprinkle for that warm, inviting aroma.
3¼ cups all-purpose flour: The essential base that gives shape to your beignets.
1 quart vegetable oil (for frying): Enough to create that golden, crispy exterior.
½ cup powdered sugar: The finishing touch for that classic, snowy coating.

How to Make Classic Beignets Recipe with Powdered Sugar Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by stirring the rapid rise yeast into the warm water, then let it sit for about 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you see frothy bubbles on the surface, signaling that the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic on your dough.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

Combine the lightly beaten egg, heavy cream, shortening, granulated sugar, salt, and a dash of nutmeg in a large bowl or your stand mixer. This flavorful blend forms the base that will make your beignets wonderfully creamy and just the right amount of sweet.

Step 3: Add the Yeast Mixture

Pour the foamy yeast water into the wet ingredients and mix them together. This is where the dough begins to take shape and rise to the occasion—literally!

Step 4: Incorporate the Flour

Gradually add the all-purpose flour while mixing with a dough hook on medium speed. Keep going until you have a smooth but still slightly sticky dough. The texture here is key—it should be manageable but not too dry.

Step 5: Let the Dough Rise

Shape the dough into a ball, place it in a greased bowl, and cover it loosely. Set it somewhere warm and let it rise for about an hour, until it doubles in size. This rising time is what transforms your dough into those airy clouds of beignet perfection.

Step 6: Heat the Oil for Frying

Fill a deep, heavy pot with about 3 inches of vegetable oil and heat it to between 360 and 370°F. The right temperature ensures your beignets cook evenly with that irresistible golden crust.

Step 7: Roll and Cut the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out your dough to about half an inch thick. Be gentle so you don’t overwork it—too much handling can make your beignets tough. Use a knife or pizza cutter to slice the dough into 2½-inch squares, which is the perfect size for each bite.

Step 8: Fry Your Beignets

Fry the dough squares in batches, turning them after 1-2 minutes on each side, until they’re beautifully golden brown. Hot oil and quick frying are essential to keep them light inside and crisp outside.

Step 9: Drain and Prepare to Serve

Use tongs to remove beignets and place them on paper towels to drain off excess oil. This step keeps them from becoming greasy and helps maintain that delicate crunch.

Step 10: Dust with Powdered Sugar

While still warm, generously coat your beignets with powdered sugar. This final dusting transforms them into the classic treats we all know and love, with a sweet finish that melts in your mouth.

How to Serve Classic Beignets Recipe with Powdered Sugar Recipe

The image shows a white tray filled with small square-shaped fried dough pieces. Each piece is golden brown with a slightly crispy texture and is covered with a thick layer of white powdered sugar, giving a soft, powdery look on top. The dough pieces are arranged closely together, some stacked in rows, showing a fluffy and light inside with a thin crispy outside. The white powdered sugar is evenly spread over all the pieces, contrasting with the warm golden color of the dough. The surface beneath the tray has a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The traditional way to enjoy your beignets is with a generous snowfall of powdered sugar, but feel free to get creative! A sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of chocolate sauce can add a lovely twist without overshadowing the classic taste.

Side Dishes

Beignets shine beautifully alongside a cup of strong coffee or a frothy café au lait, making them an ideal companion for breakfast or brunch moments. Fresh fruit like berries or citrus slices can also brighten the plate and balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking your beignets into a towering pyramid dusted with extra powdered sugar for an impressive dessert centerpiece. Alternatively, serve them with small bowls of warm chocolate or caramel dipping sauces to encourage sharing and smiles.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. Beignets are best eaten fresh but can still taste enjoyable the next day when stored carefully.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze unfried dough squares on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, fry them straight from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the frying time. This helps you savor your Classic Beignets Recipe with Powdered Sugar Recipe on demand.

Reheating

To refresh leftover beignets, warm them briefly in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. This method helps restore their crispness without drying them out—then, just dust with powdered sugar again before serving.

FAQs

Can I substitute shortening with butter?

Yes, you can use butter instead of shortening, which will add a richer flavor. Keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different, as butter has a lower melting point and contains water.

What if I don’t have rapid rise yeast?

Regular active dry yeast works too, but it will take longer to activate and rise. Just be sure to allow extra time for proofing—about double the usual time.

How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?

The oil should reach between 360 and 370°F. Use a candy or deep-fry thermometer for accuracy. If you don’t have one, drop a small piece of dough into the oil; if it bubbles and rises to the surface quickly, the oil is ready.

Can I make the dough in advance?

Absolutely! Make the dough and allow it to rise, then refrigerate it overnight. Bring it back to room temperature before rolling out and frying for the best results.

Are beignets supposed to be heavy or light?

Beignets are meant to be light, fluffy, and airy inside with a crispy golden exterior. Achieving this balance is what makes the Classic Beignets Recipe with Powdered Sugar Recipe so special and irresistible.

Final Thoughts

There really is something magical about sinking your teeth into warm beignets generously coated with powdered sugar. This Classic Beignets Recipe with Powdered Sugar Recipe is more than just a dessert—it’s a moment of joy and comfort that you can create right at home. So take a little time, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this classic French-inspired delight. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it over and over again!