The unmistakable scent of freshly fried pastries fills the room, whispering promises of indulgence. Today, I’m thrilled to share my version of Glazed Buttermilk Beignets, a delightful twist on the classic New Orleans treat that you won’t want to miss. These golden pillows of comfort are not only quick to whip up but also elevated by a silky vanilla glaze that adds a touch of sweetness, making them perfect for any occasion—be it a special brunch or a cozy dessert. The combination of fluffy interiors with a light crisp outside will surely become a cherished favorite in your kitchen. Curious about how to make these magical bites at home? Let’s get cooking! Why Make Glazed Buttermilk Beignets? Indulgent Flavors: These beignets are a delightful fusion of crispy and fluffy textures, heightened by a luscious vanilla glaze. Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s an accessible recipe even for novice bakers. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive brunch or a cozy night in, these sweet pastries are sure to impress and satisfy. Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment with spices or flavored glazes to add your personal touch! For more delicious inspiration, check out my Honey Garlic Glazed dish. Community Favorite: Share the joy of these beignets, and watch as friends and family gather around to enjoy them together. Glazed Buttermilk Beignets Ingredients For the Beignet Dough • All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and body to the beignets; no substitutions recommended for authentic texture. • Active Dry Yeast – A leavening agent that contributes to the beignets’ airy rise; ensure yeast is fresh for optimal results. • Warm Water (110°F) – Activates the yeast; must be warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast. • Buttermilk – Adds tanginess and a tender texture to the dough; substitute with ½ cup milk mixed with 1½ tsp lemon juice or vinegar if necessary. • Large Egg – Binds ingredients and adds richness; no direct substitutions recommended for best results. • Sugar – Sweetens the dough and contributes to browning; can be reduced slightly if desired. • Melted Butter – Enhances flavor and moisture in the dough; unsalted butter is preferred. • Salt – Balances the sweetness and enriches flavor; essential for a well-rounded taste. • Oil for Frying (Canola or Vegetable) – Provides the medium for frying, ensuring a crispy texture without imparting strong flavors. For the Vanilla Glaze • Powdered Sugar – Used in the vanilla glaze, providing sweetness and a smooth texture; an integral part of the Glazed Buttermilk Beignets experience. • Milk – Adds hydration to the glaze; adjust the amount for desired consistency. • Vanilla Extract – Infuses the glaze with a warm flavor; use pure vanilla for best results. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Glazed Buttermilk Beignets Step 1: Activate the Yeast In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of warm water (110°F) with 1 tablespoon of sugar. Sprinkle 1 packet (2¼ teaspoons) of active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to give your Glazed Buttermilk Beignets a fluffy rise. Step 2: Make Dough In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ¾ cup of buttermilk, 1 large egg, and 3 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add the yeast mixture along with a pinch of salt, stirring to combine. Slowly incorporate 2 cups of all-purpose flour until a sticky dough forms, ensuring all ingredients are well blended for a rich and tender beignet. Step 3: Knead and Proof Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. Next, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours until it has doubled in size. You’ll know it’s ready when it springs back slightly when poked. Step 4: Roll and Cut Once your dough has risen beautifully, gently punch it down and turn it onto a floured surface. Roll it out to about ½-inch thickness, using a rolling pin. Cut the dough into 2-inch squares with a sharp knife or pastry cutter. These little pieces will transform into delightful, puffy Glazed Buttermilk Beignets as they fry. Step 5: Fry Beignets In a deep, heavy-bottomed pot, heat about 3 inches of canola oil to 350°F. Carefully add the dough squares in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry each side for 1-2 minutes until they puff up and turn golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the beignets to a wire rack to drain excess oil, creating a light, crispy crust. Step 6: Make Glaze While the beignets cool slightly, prepare the sweet vanilla glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2-3 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the milk for your desired glaze consistency, ensuring it remains silky yet thick enough to coat your beignets beautifully. Step 7: Glaze and Serve While the beignets are still warm, dip each one into the vanilla glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the glazed beignets back onto the wire rack for the glaze to set slightly. Serve your Glazed Buttermilk Beignets warm, and watch the smiles appear as everyone enjoys these delightful, indulgent treats! Glazed Buttermilk Beignets Variations Customize your Glazed Buttermilk Beignets with these delightful twists that will make your kitchen adventures even more exciting! Spiced Dough: Add ½ teaspoon of nutmeg or cinnamon to the dough for a warm, aromatic kick. These spices give the beignets a lovely depth, elevating their flavor to new heights. Almond Glaze: Swap vanilla extract with almond extract in the glaze for a unique nutty twist. This enchanting fragrance makes every bite unforgettable. Citrus Zing: Incorporate the zest of one orange or lemon into the dough for a fresh, bright flavor. It complements the sweetness beautifully and adds a zing to every bite! Chocolate Drizzle: After glazing, drizzle melted chocolate over the beignets for an indulgent, decadent treat. This creates a lovely contrast of flavors, perfect for chocolate lovers. Maple Glaze: Replace the vanilla glaze with a maple syrup glaze made from powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk. The maple flavor adds a cozy richness that’s simply irresistible. Savory Spin: For a unique twist, mix in crumbled bacon or cheese into your dough before frying. These savory beignets are perfect for those looking to balance out the sweetness with some umami flavor. Honey-Glazed: Instead of using powdered sugar, try a honey glaze with honey, water, and a hint of vanilla. This gives a natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the fluffy beignets. Stuffed Beignets: Add a teaspoon of your favorite jam or chocolate ganache into the center of the dough squares before frying. These stuffed delights offer a wonderful surprise with every bite! These variations invite you to get creative and make these Glazed Buttermilk Beignets truly your own. For more flavor inspiration, consider pairing them with my Honey Garlic Glazed dish for a complete gourmet experience. Enjoy experimenting! Expert Tips for Glazed Buttermilk Beignets Check Yeast Freshness: Always ensure your yeast is fresh before use. Stale yeast can prevent the dough from rising properly, resulting in dense beignets. Control Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F for even frying. If the oil is too cool, beignets will absorb excess oil and become greasy. Don’t Overcrowd When Frying: Fry beignets in small batches to keep the oil temperature consistent. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy pastries. Let Dough Rise Properly: Allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size. This step is crucial for achieving the fluffy texture of Glazed Buttermilk Beignets. Adjust Glaze Consistency: When making the vanilla glaze, adjust the milk quantity for the desired thickness. Too thin, and it won’t coat well; too thick, and it won’t drizzle nicely. Enjoy Them Fresh: Glazed Buttermilk Beignets are best enjoyed warm. If storing, eat within two days for optimal freshness. Make Ahead Options These Glazed Buttermilk Beignets are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the recipe up to the proofing stage, then cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate. This not only develops the flavors but also saves you time on busy mornings. When you’re ready to finish, just roll, cut, and fry the beignets as directed. To keep them fresh, be sure to let them cool completely before glazing if you plan to store them for a couple of days. You’ll still achieve that delightful, fluffy texture and indulge in the same deliciousness as if they were made fresh! What to Serve with Glazed Buttermilk Beignets? Delight your guests with a full meal that enhances the sweet comfort of these pastries. Fresh Berries: A burst of sweet and tart flavors, fresh berries add a refreshing contrast to the rich beignets. Consider strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for balance. Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and velvety, a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly, creating an indulgent dessert-like experience with each bite of beignet. Rich Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling some warm chocolate sauce over the beignets can add a deep, satisfying sweetness that complements the vanilla glaze beautifully. Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote made with seasonal fruits brings a delightful acidity that cuts through the sweetness, creating a harmonious finish. Coffee or Hot Chocolate: A steaming cup of coffee or hot chocolate offers the perfect beverage pairing, enhancing the cozy mood of your beignet feast. Sweet Tea: For a Southern twist, a glass of sweet tea elevates the experience, with its refreshing sweetness providing balance to the glorious deep-fried treats. Whipped Cream: Adding a dollop of freshly whipped cream alongside or on top of the beignets creates a luscious texture and rounds out the flavors beautifully. Citrus Salad: A zesty citrus salad with a hint of honey can add brightness and freshness, giving your meal a lovely contrast that enhances the overall experience. How to Store and Freeze Glazed Buttermilk Beignets Room Temperature: Store beignets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To maintain freshness, avoid leaving them uncovered. Fridge: If you’d like them to last a bit longer, you can refrigerate beignets in an airtight container for up to 4 days, although this may slightly alter their texture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unglazed beignets in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheating: To enjoy, thaw frozen beignets overnight in the fridge. For a delightful treat, reheat them in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, then glaze while warm for the ultimate indulgence! Glazed Buttermilk Beignets Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe ingredients for the Glazed Buttermilk Beignets? Absolutely! For the best results, ensure your buttermilk is fresh and not close to its expiration date, as this will affect the flavor and texture of your dough. When choosing eggs, select ones that are not cracked and are kept in the refrigerator for optimal freshness. For the active dry yeast, check the expiration date and make sure it is stored in a cool, dry place. How should I store leftover Glazed Buttermilk Beignets? Very! Store any leftover beignets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps keep them from drying out. If you have more than you can eat within that time, place them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, although the texture may not be as fluffy. Always remember to allow them to cool completely before storing to avoid moisture buildup. Can I freeze Glazed Buttermilk Beignets? Absolutely! To freeze unglazed beignets, lay them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet until frozen solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, where they can be kept for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes for that fresh-baked texture before glazing. What can I do if my beignets are dense or don’t rise properly? If your beignets aren’t as fluffy as you’d like, it could be due to inactive yeast. Make sure to check your yeast’s freshness before starting. If it doesn’t froth after mixing with warm water and sugar, it’s no longer good. Additionally, ensure your dough has enough time to rise in a warm area until it doubles in size. If the environment is too cold, consider placing the dough in a slightly warm oven to help it rise. Are Glazed Buttermilk Beignets safe for everyone, including people with allergies? Great question! These beignets contain common allergens such as wheat and eggs, so they may not be suitable for those with gluten or egg allergies. If accommodating dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free flour blended with a gluten-free baking blend and an egg substitute, like a flax egg or unsweetened applesauce. Always check with guests about allergies before serving, and enjoy making adaptations that suit everyone’s needs! Heavenly Glazed Buttermilk Beignets You’ll Love to Make These Glazed Buttermilk Beignets are crispy, fluffy, and perfectly sweetened, ideal for brunch or dessert. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsRising Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes minsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 5 minutes mins Servings: 12 beignetsCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 180 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Beignet Dough2 cups all-purpose flour no substitutes for authentic texture1 packet active dry yeast ensure yeast is fresh1/4 cup warm water 110°F3/4 cup buttermilk substitute with ½ cup milk and 1½ tsp lemon juice if necessary1 large egg no substitutions recommended3 tablespoons sugar can be reduced if desired3 tablespoons melted butter unsalted is preferred1 teaspoon salt essential for flavor3 inches oil for frying canola or vegetable oilFor the Vanilla Glaze1 cup powdered sugar provides sweetness and smooth texture2-3 tablespoons milk adjust for desired consistency1 teaspoon vanilla extract use pure for best results Equipment mixing bowlwhiskRolling PinDeep potSlotted spoonWire Rack Method Activating YeastIn a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of warm water with 1 tablespoon of sugar. Sprinkle active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.Making DoughIn a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter until smooth. Gradually add the yeast mixture and a pinch of salt. Slowly incorporate flour until a sticky dough forms.Kneading and ProofingTransfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1-2 hours until doubled.Rolling and CuttingPunch down the dough, roll it out to 1/2-inch thickness, and cut into 2-inch squares.Frying BeignetsHeat oil to 350°F in a deep pot. Add dough squares in batches and fry each side for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Transfer to a wire rack to drain.Making GlazeIn a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust milk for desired consistency.Glazing and ServingDip warm beignets into the glaze. Allow excess to drip off and place back on the rack to set. Serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1beignetCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.5gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 40mgSugar: 5gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure yeast is fresh, maintain oil temperature, and enjoy the beignets warm for best results. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
