If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up in a quaint French café with the aroma of freshly fried dough and sugar dust in the air, this recipe is your invitation. The Royal Bakery Box Beignet Recipe brings that dream to life—offering a soft, airy, golden-fried pastry that’s light as a cloud and deeply satisfying. Beignets aren’t just any dessert. They’re an experience.

These French dessert recipes originated centuries ago, but today, we bring you a modern, simplified way to enjoy beignets at home. Whether you’re planning a breakfast brunch with friends or looking for new delicious snacks recipes, this beignet recipe delivers both elegance and indulgence.

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Classic French Doughnuts That Define Breakfast and Brunch Indulgence

A beignet (pronounced “ben-yay”) is a traditional French pastry made from yeast dough, rolled and cut into squares or rounds, then deep-fried until golden brown and pillowy. Think of them as the Parisian cousin to doughnuts, but without the hole and with a touch more refinement.

They are often served warm with a generous shower of powdered sugar and sometimes filled with fruit preserves, custard, or chocolate. The light interior and crispy edges make beignets a standout among breakfast sweets and sweet snacks recipes alike.

A Regal Treat for Sweet Snacks, Breakfasts, and Special Moments

The magic of The Royal Bakery Box Beignet Recipe is that it feels fancy enough for holidays, brunches, and birthday breakfasts, yet it’s simple enough to make on a cozy Sunday morning.

Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Fluffy and light texture with just the right chew
• Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or snacking
• Kid-friendly and great for holiday baking traditions
• Made with classic, easy-to-find ingredients
• A sweet way to explore French dessert recipes at home

Pair it with hot cocoa, fresh fruit, or a warm cup of coffee for an unforgettable bakery-style treat.

Simple Pantry Staples for Authentic Beignets at Home

You don’t need any exotic ingredients to make these beignets. Everything you need might already be in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F or 45°C)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 egg
• ½ cup whole milk (warm)
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Tip: You can replace whole milk with oat or almond milk if you’re looking for a dairy-free variation.

Everything You Need to Make Homemade Beignets from Scratch

Kitchen Tools:

• Stand mixer (optional) or mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Dough scraper or sharp knife
• Deep pot or fryer
• Thermometer (for accurate frying temperature)
• Slotted spoon or tongs
• Cooling rack
• Sifter for powdered sugar

How to Make Beignets That Are Golden, Fluffy, and Irresistible

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Add milk, egg, salt, and softened butter. Gradually mix in flour until the dough forms. Knead until smooth (about 5–8 minutes by hand or 3–5 minutes in a mixer).

Step 3: Let It Rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Roll and Cut

Punch down the dough. Roll it out on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick. Cut into 2–3-inch squares using a sharp knife or dough cutter.

Step 5: Heat Oil

In a deep pan, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry a few beignets at a time until golden brown on each side (about 1 minute per side).

Step 6: Drain and Dust

Use a slotted spoon to transfer fried beignets to a paper towel-lined plate. Once slightly cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar.

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Achieving the Signature Puff and Tender Texture

To get the signature puff and airy interior of a beignet:

• Make sure your yeast is active—foaming in warm water is a good sign
• Don’t overwork the dough; gentle kneading is best
• Allow enough rise time; underproofed dough won’t puff properly
• Maintain frying oil temperature between 350°F and 375°F
• Fry in small batches to prevent oil temperature from dropping

From Chocolate-Filled to Cinnamon Sugar Beignets

This base recipe is just the beginning. Try these flavor variations:

Chocolate-Filled Beignets

Place a square of dark chocolate or a spoonful of Nutella in the center of the dough square. Fold and seal the edges before frying.

Fruit-Stuffed Beignets

Add a spoonful of jam or lemon curd before sealing and frying.

Cinnamon Sugar Beignets

Toss hot beignets in cinnamon sugar instead of powdered sugar.

Baked Beignets (Healthier Option)

Brush shaped dough with butter and bake at 375°F for 12–15 minutes. They won’t puff as much, but the flavor is still delicious.

These tweaks transform your beignets into baked dessert recipes or holiday party showstoppers.

Ideas for Serving Beignets Like a Parisian Pastry Chef

Here are some elegant presentation tips for breakfast brunch recipes or dessert platters:

• Stack beignets on a cake stand and drizzle with chocolate sauce
• Serve with a trio of dipping sauces: raspberry jam, caramel, and vanilla glaze
• Add fresh berries and whipped cream on the side
• Create mini beignets and serve them in paper cones for grab-and-go snacking
• Garnish with edible flowers or mint for brunch events

Pair with coffee, chai, or fresh juice for a beautiful, bakery-worthy spread.

Keeping Your French Treats Fresh and Fluffy

Beignets are best served warm and fresh, but you can make them ahead.

Storage Tips:

• At room temperature: Store cooled beignets in an airtight container for up to 1 day
• In the fridge: Reheat in a toaster oven or microwave briefly
• To freeze dough: After the first rise, shape and freeze the dough squares. Thaw, let rise again, and fry fresh

Pro tip: Avoid storing with powdered sugar—they’ll get soggy. Dust right before serving.

Calories, Carbs, and Smart Ways to Lighten Up the Recipe

A classic fried beignet (without filling) has approximately:

• Calories: 210
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 10g
• Sugar: 6g
• Protein: 3g

To reduce calories:

• Use less sugar in the dough
• Opt for baked beignets
• Serve with fruit instead of sweet dips
• Dust lightly with powdered sugar or use monk fruit sweetener

What Makes Beignet Dough Special Among Bread Recipes Homemade

Unlike traditional breads that aim for a structured crumb, beignet dough is soft, enriched, and made for lightness. The higher fat content and yeast activation result in a pillow-like texture that stands apart from dense loaves or sandwich breads.

If you love bread recipes homemade, this recipe adds a sweet, elegant option to your repertoire.

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All About Beignet Prep, Proofing, Frying, and Freezing

Can I use instant yeast?

Yes. Skip the proofing step and mix it directly with flour.

Can I prepare beignets ahead of time?

Yes. Shape the dough and refrigerate overnight. Let rise before frying.

Why didn’t my beignets puff?

Underproofed dough or oil that isn’t hot enough are common causes.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes. Use plant milk and vegan butter.

Can I fill them after frying?

Yes. Use a piping bag and fill while warm.

Why Beignets Might Not Rise or Turn Out Dense

Here are common issues and how to fix them:

• Yeast is expired: Always check expiration dates
• Water too hot or too cold: Aim for 105–110°F
• Didn’t rise long enough: Allow 1–2 hours for proper rise
• Oil too cold: Always use a thermometer
• Overmixed dough: Handle gently for fluffier results

Why The Royal Bakery Box Is Your Gateway to French Dessert Recipes at Home

If you’re drawn to the elegance of European pastries but intimidated by complexity, this Royal Bakery Box Beignet Recipe is the perfect starting point. It’s simple yet luxurious, perfect for gifting or indulging, and a beautiful entry into the world of French dessert recipes.

Whether you’re planning a cozy family breakfast or looking to impress at your next brunch, these beignets strike the perfect balance of effort and reward.

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