Description
Haitian Beignets are a traditional Caribbean dessert featuring light, fluffy fried dough squares dusted generously with powdered sugar. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, these sweet treats are perfect for breakfast or as a delightful snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For Frying and Serving
- 2 to 3 cups vegetable oil for frying
- 1 cup powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and optional ground nutmeg to evenly combine all dry components.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly, then add the evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and melted unsalted butter. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine to Form Dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix gently until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky to handle, incorporate additional flour one tablespoon at a time until it becomes manageable and no longer overly sticky.
- Roll and Cut Dough: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to approximately 1/2-inch thickness. Using a knife or pastry cutter, cut the dough into 2-inch squares or rectangles to create the shape of the beignets.
- Heat Oil: In a deep heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to maintain this temperature for proper frying and texture.
- Fry Beignets: Carefully place the dough pieces into the hot oil in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and puff up nicely, turning once during cooking.
- Drain and Dust: Using a slotted spoon, remove the beignets from the oil and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil. While still warm, generously dust the beignets with powdered sugar.
- Serve Warm: Serve the Haitian Beignets warm to fully enjoy their crisp exterior and soft, sweet interior.
Notes
- Maintain the oil temperature strictly between 350°F and 365°F for even frying and optimum puffiness.
- Do not overcrowd the frying pot, as this lowers the oil temperature and results in greasy, soggy beignets.
- Best enjoyed fresh on the day they are made for maximum crispness and flavor.
