Beignets(New Orleans Style Square Donuts)
Delight in these classic New Orleans-style square beignets, featuring light, airy dough with a hint of sweetness. Perfect for breakfast or a special treat, they are best enjoyed dusted with powdered sugar and warm from the fryer, appealing to those who love crispy, fluffy pastries with a touch of indulgence.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, stir together 1 1/2 cups of flour and yeast.
- In a saucepan, heat milk, sugar, shortening, and salt to 115° to 120°F, stirring constantly.
- Add the heated mixture to the flour mixture; add the egg. Beat with an electric mixer on low for 30 seconds.
- Beat on high for 3 minutes.
- Use a spoon to stir in enough remaining flour to make a soft dough.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, turn once to grease the surface. Cover and refrigerate until chilled, preferably overnight.
- Fry the chilled dough until golden brown, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your milk is at the right temperature to activate the yeast. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with unsalted butter. To avoid dense beignets, don’t skip the resting period in the fridge. If the dough is too sticky, add flour gradually. Serve with a side of coffee or tea for a delightful pairing.
Serving Suggestions
Dust beignets generously with powdered sugar right before serving. They are best enjoyed fresh and can be paired with a cup of hot café au lait or chocolate for a true New Orleans experience. Consider serving alongside fresh fruit or a light yogurt for a balanced treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover beignets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as this may make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beignets(New Orleans Style Square Donuts) contains roughly 274 calories, with 4g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 991mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the beignets. Just make sure to let the dough come to room temperature before rolling it out.
What is the best way to fry beignets?
Use a deep fryer or a heavy pot filled with oil at 350°F for frying. This ensures even cooking and a crispy exterior. Fry a few at a time to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
While you can substitute whole wheat flour, it may alter the texture of the beignets, making them denser. If you want a healthier option, consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a balance.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).