Save Festive, light, and fluffy beignets shaped and decorated like Christmas ornaments—perfect for holiday celebrations and treats.
I first made these beignets to bring holiday cheer to my family's Christmas brunch. They were a huge hit and disappeared quickly.
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 to 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 to 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 to 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 This recipe brings my family together every holiday season as we decorate the beignets like ornaments and share stories around the table.
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 These festive beignets make a delightful treat that brightens up any holiday celebration.
Recipe FAQ
- → What makes the beignets light and fluffy?
The yeast dough is allowed to rise twice, creating an airy texture that results in light and fluffy beignets once fried.
- → How should I fry the dough for best results?
Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry the dough rounds in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown for a crisp, tender finish.
- → Can I customize the decoration colors?
Yes, use food coloring to tint the powdered sugar glaze in various hues, and add sprinkles or edible pearls to create festive ornament designs.
- → How long does the dough need to rise?
The dough should rise about 1 hour initially until doubled, then again for 20 minutes after cutting before frying.
- → Are there tips to enhance the flavor?
Add a pinch of orange zest or cinnamon to the dough for a subtle festive twist that complements the sweet glaze perfectly.