Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 18–24 beignets
Bring the taste of the New Orleans French Quarter to your kitchen with these Authentic Louisiana Beignets — soft, pillowy fried pastries dusted with powdered sugar. Crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside, Golden Bayou Beignets are a sweet Southern classic best enjoyed warm with a cup of café au lait. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they capture the joyful flavor of Louisiana in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 3 large eggs
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional, for a classic Creole flavor twist)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Directions
- Activate the Yeast:
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir lightly and let sit for 5–10 minutes, until foamy. - Make the Dough:
Add the eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and salt. Stir until combined. Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. - Knead and Rise:
Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size. - Roll and Cut:
Punch down dough and roll out to about ¼ inch thick. Cut into 2-inch squares using a knife or pizza cutter. - Fry the Beignets:
Heat oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Fry 3–4 pieces at a time for 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown and puffed. - Dust and Serve:
Drain on paper towels and immediately dust with powdered sugar while warm. Serve fresh with coffee, chocolate sauce, or fruit preserves.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy your Golden Bayou Beignets warm with New Orleans-style café au lait, sweet tea, or a drizzle of honey butter. For a festive touch, serve them at brunch or Mardi Gras gatherings.