How to Make Fluffy Buttermilk Beignets

Ingredients

For the Beignets:

• 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For Dusting:

• Powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

• Gather all your ingredients and let the buttermilk and egg come to room temperature.

2. Mix Wet Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing; a few lumps are okay.

5. Add Melted Butter

• Fold in the melted butter until thoroughly incorporated.

6. Prepare the Dough

• The dough will be sticky. Turn it out onto a floured surface and lightly knead it to bring it together.

7. Roll Out the Dough

• Roll the dough out to about 1/2 inch thick. Use a floured knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into squares (about 2×2 inches).

8. Heat the Oil

• In a deep pot or fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). You can use a thermometer to ensure the right temperature.

9. Fry the Beignets

• Carefully drop a few squares of dough into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
• Use a slotted spoon to remove the beignets and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

10. Dust with Powdered Sugar

• While the beignets are still warm, dust them generously with powdered sugar.

11. Serve

• Enjoy your fluffy buttermilk beignets warm, preferably with coffee or hot chocolate!

Tips

• Ensure the oil is at the right temperature to prevent the beignets from absorbing too much oil.
• Beignets are best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat them in an oven or an air fryer for a few minutes if needed.
• Feel free to get creative with fillings or toppings, such as jams, chocolate, or cream cheese, for an extra treat!

Enjoy your homemade fluffy buttermilk beignets!