There’s nothing quite like the joy of taking a bite of a freshly made beignet, its warm, pillowy texture dusted with powdered sugar melting in your mouth. Inspired by the beloved Disney character Tiana from The Princess and the Frog, these delightful New Orleans-style treats have a charm that draws you in. I first tried my hand at making these beignets after a long week where nothing felt satisfying—it was time to indulge in a little magic right in my kitchen!
With just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients and a simple method, you can create these dreamy pastries perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a sweet evening treat. And trust me, there’s something utterly enchanting about pairing them with a hot cup of coffee while you savor the delightful crunch of their crispy exterior. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone seeking a joyful break from fast food, you’ll find this recipe is not only crowd-pleasing but surprisingly easy to whip up. Get ready to bring a taste of New Orleans to your home!
Why are Princess and the Frog Beignets irresistible?
Fluffy, these beignets boast a light, airy texture that feels like a cloud in your mouth. Deliciously sweet, the powdered sugar dusting adds a charming touch, enhancing their indulgence. Quick to make, this simple recipe brings magic to your kitchen without a fuss. Versatile, you can customize your beignets with unique flavors or fillings, like chocolate or fruit preserves. Perfect for any time of day, they elevate breakfasts, brunches, or a cozy dessert with friends. For ideas on what to serve alongside your beignets, check out my serving suggestions.
Princess and the Frog Beignets Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 cup milk – Warm the milk to help activate the yeast and provide moisture.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough, with some reserved for yeast activation.
- 2 1/2 teaspoons dry active yeast – Essential for leavening, ensuring the beignets are puffy and light.
- 1 large egg – Adds richness and structure; make sure it’s at room temperature for easier mixing.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – Enhances flavor and texture when melted and incorporated into the dough.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Infuses a sweet aroma, making your Princess and the Frog beignets even more delightful.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and brings out all the flavors in your dough.
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure; feel free to adjust to 3 cups if needed for a less sticky dough.
For Frying
- Vegetable or peanut oil – Choose your preferred oil for frying to achieve that perfect crispy coat.
For Serving
- Powdered sugar – Dust generously before serving for that classic sweet touch that makes beignets shine.
How to Make Princess and the Frog Beignets
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Whisk Together
In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and yeast. Allow the mixture to sit for 5 minutes, or until bubbly and frothy. This step activates the yeast for perfect rising! -
Mix in Wet Ingredients
Stir in the remaining sugar, egg, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Ensure everything is well combined to create a smooth, rich dough. -
Incorporate Flour
Gradually add the flour while mixing with a dough hook or spoon. Once combined, knead the dough for 3-4 minutes until it’s elastic and slightly tacky, but not too sticky. -
Let the Dough Rise
Cover the bowl with cling wrap and let the dough rise in a warm spot for at least 2 hours, or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavors. -
Prepare for Frying
Heat vegetable or peanut oil in a Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about ½-inch thickness. -
Cut and Fry
Cut the dough into 1-2 inch squares. Fry a few at a time for 2-2.5 minutes, flipping halfway through for an even golden brown color. -
Drain and Dust
Remove the beignets and drain them on paper towels. Once slightly cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar. Serve these delightful treats warm for the best experience.
Optional: For an extra touch, serve with a side of chocolate or fruit dipping sauce.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Princess and the Frog Beignets
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Room Temperature: Store leftover beignets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed fresh, so try to consume them quickly!
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Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, place in the fridge for 3-5 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or microwave to restore some softness, but be aware they will not be as crisp.
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Freezer: For extended storage, freeze beignets for up to three months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring they’re well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
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Reheating: To enjoy frozen beignets, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then reheat in an oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes. This helps restore their delightful texture, making your Princess and the Frog beignets feel freshly made!
What to Serve with Princess and the Frog Beignets?
Indulging in warm, fluffy beignets creates an irresistible experience, and pairing them with delightful accompaniments can elevate your meal.
- Rich Coffee: A cup of strong, hot coffee perfectly balances the sweetness of the beignets, enhancing the flavors while providing warmth.
- Creamy Hot Chocolate: The rich, velvety texture of hot cocoa makes for a decadent pairing, especially when sprinkled with marshmallows or whipped cream.
- Fruity Coulis: A fruit coulis like raspberry or strawberry adds a vibrant, tangy contrast to the sweet beignets, brightening each bite. For an extra treat, dip the beignets into the sauce for a delicious twist!
- Cinnamon Sugar: Instead of the classic powdered sugar, try rolling your beignets in cinnamon sugar for a wonderful spiced twist, adding warmth and depth to the flavor.
- Fresh Berries: A side of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries provides a juicy and refreshing contrast that cuts through the sweetness.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serving warm beignets with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates an indulgent dessert experience that marries warm and cold in every delicious bite.
Expert Tips for Princess and the Frog Beignets
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Oil Temperature Matters: Ensure your oil is precisely 350°F for the perfect fry; too cool, and the beignets will be greasy instead of light and fluffy.
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Dough Consistency: The dough may feel sticky, but avoid adding too much extra flour; doing so can lead to denser beignets that lack that airy texture we love.
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Proper Drainage: Let excess oil drain on paper towels after frying; this keeps your beignets deliciously light, enhancing their indulgent feel.
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Serve Fresh: These Princess and the Frog beignets are best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer, providing that wonderful warmth and texture that makes them so irresistible.
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Customize Flavors: Feel free to experiment with flavored extracts or fillings like chocolate or fruit preserves to add a unique twist to your beignets!
Princess and the Frog Beignets Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your own magic on these beignets with fun and delicious variations!
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Chocolate Lovers:
Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for a melty surprise inside every bite. The rich chocolatey flavor will elevate these treats to a new level of indulgence. -
Cinnamon Spice:
Mix in 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the flour for a warm, cozy flavor. Roll the finished beignets in cinnamon sugar after frying for a delightful twist on sweetness. -
Fruit-Filled:
Before frying, place a teaspoon of fruit preserves in the center of each dough square. Eager taste buds will love the burst of fruity flavor with each bite! -
Nutty Crunch:
Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for added texture and flavor. These beignets will have a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft dough. -
Lemon Zest:
Incorporate a teaspoon of lemon zest into the dough for a refreshing zing! This tartness complements the sweetness of the powdered sugar perfectly. -
Dairy-Free:
Substitute almond milk for regular milk and coconut oil for butter. You won’t lose any flavor, and you’ll have a delicious, light treat suitable for those avoiding dairy. -
Almond Twist:
Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a unique nutty flavor. The scent alone will transport you straight to a charming café in New Orleans! -
Spicy Kick:
Sprinkle a little cayenne pepper into the dough for a surprising hint of heat. This adds great depth and excitement to each sweet bite, perfect for adventurous palates!
Make Ahead Options
These Princess and the Frog Beignets are a wonderful recipe for busy home cooks who want to save time while indulging in something truly special! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by letting it rise and then refrigerating it overnight—this actually enhances the flavor. To do this, simply follow the instructions to create the dough, cover it well with cling wrap, and place it in the fridge. When you’re ready to fry, bring the dough to room temperature and roll it out. Then, cut and fry as directed for beignets that are just as delicious as those made fresh. Trust me, having this magical dough ready to go will make your mornings so much easier and more delightful!
Princess and the Frog Beignets Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for making Princess and the Frog beignets?
Absolutely! For the best results, make sure your milk is warm but not hot—about 100°F is ideal for activating the yeast without killing it. The egg should be at room temperature, as this helps it blend more easily into the dough. Fresh dried yeast is essential, so check the expiration date to ensure your beignets rise beautifully.
What is the best way to store leftover beignets, and how long do they last?
You can store leftover Princess and the Frog beignets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like them to last a bit longer, they can be refrigerated for 3-5 days, but this may affect their crispness. For optimal taste, I recommend enjoying them fresh!
Can I freeze the beignets, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! You can freeze your beignets for up to three months. Once they’re completely cooled, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes to restore their scrumptious texture.
What common issues should I look out for while making the beignets?
One common challenge is getting the oil temperature right. If the oil is too cool, the beignets will absorb excess grease and become heavy. Aim for 350°F using a candy thermometer if you have one. Also, if your dough feels overly sticky, resist the urge to add too much flour; this will lead to denser beignets. It’s best for the dough to be slightly tacky.
Are there any dietary considerations for Princess and the Frog beignets, especially regarding allergies?
Yes! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be mindful of the ingredients. The beignets contain gluten from the flour and dairy from the milk and butter. To make a gluten-free version, try using a gluten-free flour blend, and dairy-free substitutes, such as almond milk and vegan butter, can replace the traditional ingredients. Always ensure that your alternative ingredients are safe for those with specific dietary needs.
What items can I serve alongside my beignets?
The choices are endless! These delightful pastries pair beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or tea. You can also consider offering a side of chocolate or fruit dipping sauce. If you want to add a fruity twist, serve them with fresh berries or a fruit coulis. Remember, the more the merrier when it comes to enjoying these treats—so feel free to get creative!
Magical Princess and the Frog Beignets You Can Make Today
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and yeast. Allow the mixture to sit for 5 minutes, or until bubbly and frothy.
- Stir in the remaining sugar, egg, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Ensure everything is well combined to create a smooth, rich dough.
- Gradually add the flour while mixing with a dough hook or spoon. Once combined, knead the dough for 3-4 minutes until it's elastic and slightly tacky.
- Cover the bowl with cling wrap and let the dough rise in a warm spot for at least 2 hours, or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavors.
- Heat vegetable or peanut oil in a Dutch oven to 350°F. Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about ½-inch thickness.
- Cut the dough into 1-2 inch squares. Fry a few at a time for 2-2.5 minutes, flipping halfway through for an even golden brown color.
- Remove the beignets and drain them on paper towels. Once slightly cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar.