Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets

Introduction

Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets are a delicate twist on the classic French pastry. These light, fluffy doughnuts are infused with the subtle floral notes of lavender and the warm, aromatic essence of vanilla bean, creating a truly decadent treat. Each beignet is deep-fried to perfection, with a golden, crispy exterior that gives way to a soft, airy interior. Sprinkled with powdered sugar and served warm, these beignets are the perfect indulgence for breakfast, dessert, or any special occasion.

I first made these when I wanted to try something different for brunch, and they were a huge hit. The combination of lavender and vanilla bean adds a unique flavor profile that’s both comforting and sophisticated. The kitchen smelled amazing as they cooked, and everyone couldn’t wait to try them. These beignets are surprisingly easy to make, and the result is a melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s sure to impress.

Whether you’re looking to treat yourself or serve something special at your next gathering, these beignets are sure to be a memorable addition. You can even get creative with the toppings—try a drizzle of honey, a dash of cinnamon, or a spoonful of jam to elevate the flavor even more!

Perfect for:

• Special occasions
• Brunch or breakfast
• Dessert tables
• Gift-giving
• Fans of floral flavors and French pastries

Why You’ll Love This Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets

Here’s why Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets will become your new favorite treat:

• Delicate Floral Flavor: The infusion of lavender adds a soft, floral note that perfectly complements the richness of vanilla bean.
• Soft and Fluffy Texture: These beignets have a light, pillowy interior, achieved through a delicate dough and the frying process.
• Classic French Treat: Beignets are a timeless French pastry, and this recipe gives them a sophisticated twist with the addition of lavender and vanilla bean.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Whether it’s for a brunch, afternoon tea, or a dessert spread, these beignets will impress your guests.
• Easy to Make: Despite their fancy flavor profile, these beignets are simple to prepare, and the dough comes together quickly.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
• Servings: 18-20 beignets
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-180 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 3g, Carbs: 28g, Fat: 7g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon dried lavender buds
• 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
• ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Ingredient Highlights

• Lavender: The addition of dried lavender buds imparts a subtle floral fragrance and flavor that elevates the beignets, making them a unique treat.
• Vanilla Bean: Using the seeds from a vanilla bean pod adds an intense, natural vanilla flavor that’s more aromatic than extract.
• Yeast: The yeast gives the beignets their characteristic fluffy texture, making them soft and airy once fried.
• Butter: Melted butter adds richness to the dough, creating a tender crumb.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets:

Prepare the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and yeast. Stir to dissolve and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and dried lavender buds.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the activated yeast mixture, vanilla bean seeds (or vanilla extract), eggs, melted butter, and lemon zest (if using) to the dry ingredients. Stir until the dough begins to come together.
4. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
5. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Shape and Fry the Beignets:

6. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out to about ½ inch thickness.
7. Cut the Beignets: Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into squares or rectangles, about 2 inches wide.
8. Heat the Oil: In a large pot or deep-fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature.
9. Fry the Beignets: Carefully drop a few beignet squares into the hot oil at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the beignets and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
10. Dust with Powdered Sugar: While the beignets are still warm, dust them generously with powdered sugar.

How to Serve Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets

Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets are perfect for any occasion:

• For Breakfast or Brunch: Serve these beignets with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a refined brunch experience.
• As a Dessert: These delicate pastries are ideal for serving as part of a dessert platter or after a rich meal.
• For Special Occasions: Their unique flavor makes these beignets perfect for special occasions, from holiday celebrations to afternoon tea gatherings.
• As a Gift: Packaged in a cute box or tin, these beignets make a lovely homemade gift for friends and family.
• With a Side of Fruit: Pair the beignets with fresh berries or a citrus salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich dough.

Additional Tips for Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets

Here are some tips to ensure your Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets are perfect every time:

• Use Fresh Lavender: Ensure you use culinary-grade lavender, which is safe to consume and has a fragrant flavor. If you’re using lavender from your garden, make sure it’s pesticide-free.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Fryer: Fry the beignets in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure they cook evenly.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: If the oil is too hot, the beignets will brown too quickly and remain raw inside. If it’s too cool, they will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
• Dust with Sugar Just Before Serving: Beignets are best when dusted with powdered sugar just before serving to prevent the sugar from dissolving in the heat.
• Experiment with Flavors: For a twist, you can add other flavorings like a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra warmth.
• Chill the Dough: If the dough is too sticky to handle, chill it for 15-20 minutes to make it easier to roll and cut.

Recipe Variations for Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets

Here are 5 variations you can try for Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets:

• Lemon Lavender Beignets: Add lemon zest to the dough and serve the beignets with a lemon glaze for a citrusy contrast.
• Rose Vanilla Beignets: Substitute lavender with dried rose petals for a delicate floral flavor.
• Chocolate Lava Beignets: Fill the beignet squares with a small spoonful of melted chocolate before frying for a rich, gooey center.
• Honey Lavender Beignets: Drizzle warm honey over the beignets before dusting with powdered sugar for a sweet, floral finish.
• Cinnamon Sugar Beignets: Instead of powdered sugar, toss the fried beignets in a cinnamon-sugar mixture for a warm, comforting flavor.

Freezing and Storage for Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets

• Freezing: These beignets freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer to a zip-top bag and store for up to 1 month. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to crisp them up.
• Storage: Store leftover beignets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’re best served fresh, but can be enjoyed for a couple of days after baking.

Special Equipment for Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets easier:

• Stand Mixer: If you have a stand mixer, use the dough hook attachment to knead the dough, saving time and effort.
• Deep Fryer or Thermometer: A deep fryer with a thermometer ensures consistent frying temperatures for perfect beignets.
• Pastry Cutter or Knife: A sharp knife or pastry cutter helps you cut the dough into neat squares or rectangles.
• Slotted Spoon or Spider: Use a slotted spoon or spider to safely remove the beignets from the hot oil without losing any of their crispy texture.
• Cooling Rack: A cooling rack allows excess oil to drain away from the beignets and prevents them from becoming soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions for Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets

1. Can I use lavender extract instead of dried lavender? Yes, you can use a few drops of lavender extract as a substitute for dried lavender buds.
2. Can I make these beignets without yeast? While traditional French beignets are made with yeast, you can substitute with baking powder for a quicker, non-yeast version. However, the texture will be different—less fluffy and more cake-like.
3. How do I prevent the beignets from absorbing too much oil? Make sure your oil is hot enough (375°F or 190°C) before frying and don’t overcrowd the pot, as this can lower the oil temperature.
4. Can I make these beignets gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use one that is suitable for baking.
5. Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before frying.

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Conclusion

Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets are the perfect blend of delicate, aromatic flavors and a soft, fluffy texture that will transport you to a cozy café. With the subtle essence of vanilla and lavender, these beignets offer a refined, yet approachable treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a special gathering or enjoying them with your morning coffee, their elegance and warmth will make every bite a memorable experience.

These beignets are simple enough to whip up yet look and taste like they came from a pastry chef’s kitchen. Once you try them, they’ll quickly become a go-to recipe in your dessert collection.

I’d love to see how your Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets turn out! Don’t forget to snap a pic, share it on social media, and tag me—I’m excited to see your gorgeous creations. Happy baking!