Vanilla French Beignets Recipe – Air Fryer Desserts Easy Recipes You’ll Love
I’ve got a confession. I made these vanilla French beignets on a random Tuesday, and my kitchen still smells like a Parisian bakery. Ever found yourself craving something light, golden, and just a little too easy to eat ten of? Yeah, me too. Beignets are like the love child of a donut and a cloud – and this air fryer version? It’s got that perfect crisp shell with a pillowy center that honestly made me question every boring dessert I've ever tolerated.
We’re talking sweet easy recipes that don’t leave you with a sink full of greasy dishes. The vanilla gives it that classic flavor, while a dusting of powdered sugar makes you feel like you’ve got your life together – even if you just burned your first batch (been there). Whether you’ve got a sweet tooth the size of Texas or you just want to make something that feels a little fancy without the drama, these air fryer beignets hit the mark.
Now, before we pretend we’re all pastry chefs, just know: if I can make these, so can you. Just don’t blame me if you eat the whole batch before anyone else gets a taste.
Servings: 12 beignets
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (not hot, like a cozy bath)
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Cooking spray (for the air fryer basket)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes. If it looks bubbly, congrats—it’s alive!
- Stir in sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and salt. Mix until combined.
- Add flour one cup at a time, stirring until a dough forms. If it sticks like drama on reality TV, sprinkle a bit more flour.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Or until your arms get tired.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-2 hours. Use the time to scroll aimlessly or do something productive. Your call.
- Once doubled, punch it down gently (like it insulted your baking skills) and roll it out to 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cut into squares or whatever shape feels right. Triangles? Go wild.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F. Spray the basket with cooking spray.
- Place beignets in the basket, leaving room to puff. Air fry 5-6 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly, then shower them in powdered sugar like it’s a snow day in New Orleans.