Tiana’s Beignets Recipe – A Taste of New Orleans Magic

If you’ve ever watched The Princess and the Frog, you know that Tiana’s beignets are the stuff of dreams. These golden, pillowy treats dusted with powdered sugar are a classic New Orleans delight, perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an indulgent snack. Light, fluffy, and slightly crispy on the outside, these beignets capture the spirit of Southern hospitality.

Now, you don’t have to visit the French Quarter to enjoy them—you can make them right at home with this easy and delicious recipe!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

•   3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
•   ¾ cup warm water (110°F / 45°C)
•   ¼ cup granulated sugar
•   ½ cup whole milk, warmed
•   1 large egg
•   2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
•   2 teaspoons vanilla extract
•   1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
•   ½ teaspoon salt

For Frying and Serving:

•   Vegetable oil (for frying)
•   Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step ensures your beignets will rise properly.

2. Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, warm milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Add the activated yeast mixture and stir to combine.

Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5–7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with a dough hook on medium speed for 3–4 minutes.

3. Let It Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1–2 hours or until it doubles in size.

4. Roll and Cut the Dough

Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut it into 2–3 inch squares or rectangles.

5. Heat the Oil

In a deep pot or fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). To test if the oil is ready, drop in a small piece of dough—it should sizzle and rise to the surface.

6. Fry the Beignets

Carefully drop a few beignets into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 1–2 minutes per side, flipping them once, until they are golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

7. Dust with Powdered Sugar

While the beignets are still warm, generously dust them with powdered sugar using a fine sieve or sifter.

8. Serve and Enjoy

Tiana’s beignets are best enjoyed fresh and warm, alongside a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. Serve them at breakfast, during Mardi Gras, or whenever you crave a sweet and fluffy treat!

Tips for Perfect Beignets

•   Don’t skip the yeast activation step. If the yeast doesn’t foam, it might be expired, and the dough won’t rise properly.
•   Let the dough rest enough. The longer it rises, the fluffier your beignets will be.
•   Fry at the right temperature. If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks; too cool, and they’ll absorb too much oil.

Now, with this recipe, you can bring a little bit of Tiana’s magic into your kitchen. Happy cooking!