Creole Doughnuts(Beignets)
Creole doughnuts, or beignets, are light, fluffy fried pastries with a sweet powdered sugar coating, perfect for breakfast or dessert and loved by all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour boiling water over shortening, sugar, and salt.
- Add milk and allow to cool to lukewarm temperature.
- Dissolve yeast in half cup of lukewarm water.
- Add the yeast mixture and beaten egg to the cooled mixture.
- Stir in 2 cups of flour and beat well.
- Add enough remaining flour to make a soft dough.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, grease the top, cover, and chill until ready to use.
- Roll the dough to 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut into squares and fry a few at a time in hot oil until browned on both sides.
- Do not let the dough rise before frying.
- Drain the fried doughnuts and roll in powdered sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best texture, ensure your boiling water is hot enough to melt the shortening completely. If you don’t have Pet Milk, you can substitute with regular milk or a dairy-free alternative. To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the dough. Make sure to fry the beignets in small batches to maintain the oil's temperature and achieve even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Creole doughnuts warm, dusted with powdered sugar, for an authentic experience. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. For an extra treat, consider serving alongside a fruit-based dessert like Microwaved Baked Apples or a refreshing fruit salad, making for a delightful brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover beignets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness, avoiding the microwave which can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creole Doughnuts(Beignets) contains roughly 209 calories, with 6g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1427mg per serving (62% 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 for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before rolling out and frying. This can save time if you're planning for a gathering or special occasion.
What oil is best for frying the beignets?
A neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or vegetable oil, works best for frying beignets. This will prevent any strong flavors from affecting the taste of the doughnuts while ensuring they fry evenly and achieve that perfect golden color.
How can I tell when the oil is hot enough for frying?
You can test the oil's temperature by dropping a small piece of dough into it; if it bubbles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready. Alternatively, use a thermometer to check for a temperature of around 350°F for optimal frying results.
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).