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Classic French Donuts

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Classic French Donuts, or beignets, are light and fluffy fried dough squares dusted with powdered sugar. Golden and airy, they’re a café-style treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours (including rise time)
  • Yield: 20–24 donuts
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: French
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting
  • Vegetable or canola oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. Dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 tsp sugar. Let sit until foamy, 5–10 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add yeast mixture, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix into a soft dough.
  3. Knead dough on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled (1–1.5 hours).
  4. Roll dough to 1/2-inch thickness. Cut into squares or rectangles.
  5. Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry dough in batches, 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown.
  6. Drain on paper towels. Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

  • Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored at room temp for 1–2 days.
  • Fill with jam, custard, or chocolate for a stuffed version.
  • Add cinnamon or citrus zest to the dough for extra flavor.
  • Reheat in oven or microwave briefly; dust with more sugar before serving.
  • Dough can be refrigerated overnight before frying.

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