Save to Pinterest Festive, light, and fluffy beignets shaped and decorated like Christmas ornaments—perfect for holiday celebrations and treats.
Preparing these beignets brings back warm memories of holiday baking with family and sharing sweet moments together.
Ingredients
- Dough: 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast, 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C), 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 large eggs room temperature, 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- Frying: 4 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- Decoration: 2 cups powdered sugar, 3–4 tablespoons milk, Food coloring (red, green, blue, gold, silver, etc.), Assorted festive sprinkles and edible pearls
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let stand 5 minutes until foamy.
- Step 2:
- Whisk in sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and salt. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Step 3:
- Knead dough on a lightly floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
- Step 4:
- Roll dough out to 1/2-inch thickness. Cut into rounds using a 2-inch cutter. Re-roll scraps as needed.
- Step 5:
- Place rounds on parchment-lined trays. Cover and let rise for 20 minutes.
- Step 6:
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry beignets in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and cool.
- Step 7:
- Mix powdered sugar and milk to make a smooth, spreadable icing. Divide and tint with food coloring as desired.
- Step 8:
- Dip or spread icing over cooled beignets. Decorate with sprinkles and edible pearls to resemble Christmas ornaments. Let set before serving.
Save to Pinterest These beignets have become our family tradition every holiday season, filling our home with sweet aromas and joy.
Notes
For extra flavor, add orange zest or a pinch of cinnamon to the dough. Use piping bags for precise icing designs. Serve with hot chocolate or mulled wine for a festive touch.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, Rolling pin, 2-inch round cutter, Deep fryer or heavy pot, Slotted spoon, Parchment paper, Cooling rack
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (wheat), eggs, and dairy (milk, butter). Check decorations and food coloring for allergen traces. Always verify ingredient labels for allergen safety.
Save to Pinterest These festive beignets add a special touch to your holiday table and delight guests of all ages.
Ask About This Recipe
- → What type of flour is best for these beignets?
All-purpose flour provides the right balance of structure and tenderness for the dough, ensuring a light, fluffy texture.
- → How do I achieve the perfect lightness in the dough?
Properly activating the yeast in warm milk and allowing the dough to rise fully before frying is key to a soft and airy result.
- → Can I use different decorations on the beignets?
Yes, feel free to use various food colorings, sprinkles, and edible pearls to create festive, colorful ornament designs.
- → What oil is recommended for frying?
Vegetable oil is ideal due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor, ensuring golden, crispy beignets without overpowering taste.
- → How should the icing be prepared for decoration?
Mix powdered sugar with a small amount of milk until smooth and spreadable, then divide and tint with food coloring for vibrant finishes.
- → Are there any tips for rolling and cutting the dough?
Roll the dough evenly to about 1/2-inch thickness and use a 2-inch round cutter for consistent shapes; re-roll scraps gently as needed.