Experience the delightful texture and exquisite flavors of Orange Blossom Beignets, infused with the aromatic touch of orange blossom and vanilla. These light and fluffy beignets are a sweet treat, perfect for enjoying with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Drizzled with orange blossom honey and dusted with powdered sugar, they offer a perfect balance of sweetness and flavor.
Why You'll Love This: These beignets are not just delicious but also bring a touch of elegance to your dessert table. The incorporation of orange blossom and vanilla adds a unique floral note that sets these apart from traditional beignets. They are ideal for anyone looking to try their hand at a slightly more sophisticated version of this classic French pastry.
Perfect Occasion: These beignets are great for brunch, as a festive treat during holiday gatherings, or whenever you feel like adding a special homemade touch to your meal. They can also be served at celebrations or given as a thoughtful homemade gift, especially when beautifully packaged.
Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 tsp instant yeast
- 220ml warm milk
- 360g flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp orange blossom water
- 40g sugar
- 40g butter, melted
- Orange blossom honey for drizzling
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, instant yeast on one side, and salt on the opposite side to prevent direct contact with the yeast.
- Add sugar, vanilla extract, orange blossom water, melted butter, and warm milk.
- Knead on medium speed until you form a smooth, non-sticky dough. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add a little more flour and continue to knead.
- First Proof:
- Transfer the dough to a tall, non-reactive container and cover it with a kitchen towel.
- Preheat your oven to 150°C (302°F) for 15 minutes, then turn it off. Wait for 2 minutes and place the container in the oven to let the dough rise until doubled in size, about 1.5 hours.
- Shape the Beignets:
- Once risen, remove the dough and punch it down to release any air bubbles.
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough, maintaining some thickness.
- Cut the dough into rectangles and let them rest for another 2 hours in a warm place, such as your previously warmed but turned off oven.
- Fry the Beignets:
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large, deep pan to a moderate temperature (not boiling).
- Carefully place the dough pieces into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides.
- Remove the beignets and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Finish and Serve:
- While still warm, drizzle the beignets with orange blossom honey and generously dust them with powdered sugar.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Enjoy these Orange Blossom Beignets as a decadent treat that combines traditional French pastry techniques with delightful floral notes, perfect for any occasion that calls for something sweet and unique.