Easy Homemade Soft Filled Beignets: Sweet Treat Perfection

There’s something truly magical about biting into a warm, soft filled beignet fresh from the fryer. These delectable sweet treats are crisp on the outside, pillowy soft on the inside, and bursting with luscious filling. Whether you’re craving a cozy weekend indulgence or a fun dessert to wow friends, making soft filled beignets at home is easier than you think.

this Recipe

This recipe will guide you step-by-step through creating irresistible soft filled beignets that are light, tender, and perfectly sweet. With a luscious fruit filling encased in a delicate dough, they’re sure to become your new favorite homemade dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, pillowy texture that melts in your mouth
• Easy-to-follow recipe perfect for beginners
• Customizable fruit or cream fillings to suit your taste
• Quick frying method for fresh, hot beignets every time
• Perfect for dessert, breakfast, or a special snack

Ingredients

Gather these simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients to make your soft filled beignets come alive with flavor.

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 3/4 cup warm whole milk (about 110°F)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• Vegetable oil for frying (about 4 cups)
• Powdered sugar for dusting
• 1 cup fruit jam or preserves (raspberry, strawberry, or your favorite)

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including rising)
• Servings: 12 beignets
• Calories: Approximately 280 per beignet

How to Make Easy Homemade Soft Filled Beignets: The Best Sweet Treats You Can Make!

1. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 teaspoon sugar; let it sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy and activated.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, remaining sugar, salt, and softened butter until smooth. Stir in the yeast mixture.
3. Gradually add flour, mixing with a wooden spoon until the dough starts to come together. Knead by hand or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Once risen, turn the dough onto a floured surface and roll it out to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut the dough into 3-inch squares using a sharp knife or cookie cutter.
6. Place about 1 teaspoon of your chosen jam in the center of half the squares. Top each with another square, pressing the edges firmly to seal and prevent filling from leaking.
7. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F. Carefully fry the beignets in batches, turning once, until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
8. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried beignets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. While still warm, dust generously with powdered sugar.
9. Serve immediately for the best experience and enjoy your soft filled beignets warm and gooey.

Tips for the Best Results

• Make sure the milk is warm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
• Seal the edges of the filled dough squares well to avoid leaking during frying.
• Maintain the oil temperature between 350°F and 360°F for even frying and a crisp exterior.
• Don’t overcrowd the frying pot; fry in small batches for consistent results.
• Serve beignets fresh and warm, as they lose their softness when cooled too long.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. For longer storage, place beignets in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for up to 2 months.

To reheat, warm them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or pop in the toaster oven to regain crispness and softness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the dough rubbery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen fruit fillings for the beignets?

Yes, frozen fruit fillings or jams work perfectly well. Just make sure they are fully thawed and drained of excess liquid to prevent soggy dough.

What can I substitute for vegetable oil when frying?

Neutral oils with high smoke points like canola or peanut oil are excellent substitutes. Avoid olive oil as it can impart unwanted flavor and smoke at high frying temperatures.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

The dough should roughly double in size and look puffy. A gentle poke with your finger should leave an indentation that slowly springs back.

Can I make these beignets without filling?

Absolutely, plain beignets dusted with powdered sugar are delicious on their own. You can also fill them after frying by piping in fillings if preferred.