Imagine biting into a cloud-like, golden-brown pastry that's crispy on the outside, impossibly soft on the inside, and dusted with a snowy layer of powdered sugar. These cinnamon buttermilk beignets aren't just a dessert—they're a culinary experience that transports you straight to the charming streets of New Orleans with every heavenly bite. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a curious kitchen newbie, this recipe promises to turn your home into a gourmet French café in just 20 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 12 beignets
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- Oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon until well combined and no lumps remain.
- In a separate medium bowl, beat the large egg and then mix in the buttermilk until thoroughly incorporated.
- Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour the wet ingredient mixture into it. Gently fold and mix with a spatula until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rest for 10 minutes at room temperature. This allows the flour to hydrate and makes the dough easier to handle.
- Heat vegetable or canola oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). Use a deep-fry thermometer to ensure accurate temperature.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to approximately 1/4 inch thickness. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into 2-inch squares or diamond shapes.
- Carefully drop the dough pieces into the hot oil, working in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown and puffy.
- Use a slotted spoon or spider skimmer to remove the beignets from the oil, placing them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- While still warm, generously dust the beignets with powdered sugar using a fine-mesh sieve, ensuring complete coverage.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. Beignets are best enjoyed fresh and warm, paired with coffee or hot chocolate.
Tips
- Temperature is crucial: Use a deep-fry thermometer to maintain the oil at exactly 375°F for perfectly crisp beignets.
- Don't overcrowd the frying pan—cook in small batches to ensure even browning.
- Let the dough rest for 10 minutes to improve texture and make it easier to handle.
- Use fresh, high-quality buttermilk for the best flavor and texture.
- Serve immediately after dusting with powdered sugar to enjoy maximum crispiness.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or vanilla extract to the batter.
- If you don't have a deep-fry thermometer, test oil temperature by dropping a small piece of dough—it should sizzle and rise immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
