Glazed Buttermilk Beignets are a deliciously indulgent treat that bring the essence of New Orleans straight to your kitchen. These pillowy, golden-brown pastries are soft on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside, and finished with a sweet vanilla glaze. Perfect for a cozy breakfast, a festive brunch, or a delightful dessert, these beignets are a must-try for any pastry lover.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, this recipe doesn’t require any special ingredients.
Irresistibly Soft Texture: Buttermilk gives these beignets a tender, moist crumb that melts in your mouth.
Quick and Easy: With only one rise, these beignets are ready faster than traditional yeasted dough recipes.
Perfectly Glazed: A luscious vanilla glaze makes each bite perfectly sweet.
Great for Any Occasion: Serve them for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack anytime.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
¾ cup warm water
¼ cup sugar
½ cup buttermilk
1 egg
3½ cups flour
2 tablespoons melted butter
Oil for frying
1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
Directions
In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water and sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
Mix in the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and flour to form a soft dough.
Cover and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to ½-inch thickness. Cut into squares.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry dough squares for 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Dip the warm beignets in the glaze and let set on a wire rack.
Servings and Timing
Servings: About 24 beignets
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Variations
Chocolate Glazed: Add cocoa powder to the glaze or drizzle with melted chocolate.
Cinnamon Sugar Beignets: Skip the glaze and toss hot beignets in cinnamon sugar.
Lemon Glaze: Replace vanilla with lemon juice and zest for a citrusy twist.
Stuffed Beignets: Inject with jam, chocolate, or cream for a filled version.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store beignets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds until warm. Best served fresh.
FAQs
How do I know when the oil is hot enough?
Use a thermometer to ensure it reaches 350°F. Without one, drop a bit of dough in—the oil should bubble and the dough should rise to the top.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after the first rise. Bring it to room temperature before rolling and frying.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to ½ cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Can these beignets be baked instead of fried?
Frying is essential for the traditional texture, but you can try baking them at 375°F until golden if preferred.
How can I make these dairy-free?
Use plant-based milk and a vegan butter alternative.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, freeze after the first rise. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then bring to room temperature before frying.
Why are my beignets greasy?
The oil might be too cool. Make sure it’s consistently at 350°F.
Do I need a deep fryer?
No, a heavy-bottomed pot with enough oil and a thermometer works just fine.
Can I use a stand mixer?
Absolutely. Use the dough hook to mix and knead the dough until smooth.
How do I make sure the glaze sticks?
Dip the beignets while they’re still warm for best results.
Conclusion
Glazed Buttermilk Beignets are a delightful way to enjoy a homemade pastry that’s both easy and satisfying. With their tender crumb and sweet glaze, they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Serve them warm and fresh for a truly unforgettable treat.
Glazed Buttermilk Beignets bring the classic New Orleans treat to your kitchen—pillowy soft on the inside, golden and crisp on the outside, and finished with a luscious vanilla glaze. These homemade beignets are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, and come together quickly with simple pantry ingredients.
Total Time:1 hour 35 minutes
Yield:About 24 beignets
Ingredients
2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
¾ cup warm water
¼ cup sugar
½ cup buttermilk
1 egg
3½ cups flour
2 tablespoons melted butter
Oil for frying
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
In a large bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water and sprinkle yeast on top. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Add buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and flour. Mix to form a soft dough.
Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Roll out dough on a floured surface to ½-inch thickness. Cut into squares.
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry squares 1–2 minutes per side until golden. Drain on paper towels.
Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Dip warm beignets in glaze and place on wire rack to set.
Notes
Substitute buttermilk with milk + 1 tbsp vinegar if needed.
Glaze sticks best when beignets are still warm.
Use a candy or frying thermometer to maintain proper oil temperature.
Optional: Try flavor variations like chocolate glaze, lemon glaze, or cinnamon sugar.
