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Fluffy Buttermilk Beignets

These light and airy beignets are quick to prepare without yeast, featuring a delightful buttermilk flavor and a crispy exterior dusted in powdered sugar.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American, Cajun
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Core Ingredients
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour plus extra for dusting the surface
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 tablespoons granulated white sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
  • 3/4 cup buttermilk cold, straight from the fridge
  • 1 large egg room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter melted and slightly cooled
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 4 cups neutral oil for frying vegetable, canola, or peanut oil
  • 1 cup powdered sugar for dusting
Optional Flavor Additions
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon mixed into the dry ingredients
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon or orange zest stirred into the wet ingredients
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, granulated sugar, and salt until thoroughly combined.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cold buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and fold gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rest for 10 minutes.
  5. Heat the oil in a deep pot, ensuring it reaches a temperature of 350°F to 360°F (175°C to 182°C).
  6. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness and cut into 2 to 2.5 inch squares.
Frying
  1. Lower 4 to 5 beignet squares into the hot oil and fry for 1 to 1.5 minutes per side until golden brown.
  2. Transfer cooked beignets to a wire rack over a paper towel-lined sheet to drain oil.
  3. Dust generously with powdered sugar while warm and serve immediately.

Notes

For the best results, do not overcrowd the pot while frying. Beignets are best enjoyed fresh and hot. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day, but avoid storing powdered sugar on them.