Air Fryer Beignets Recipe

Warm water: Used to activate the yeast and create the dough.

Active dry yeast: Essential for the dough to rise and become fluffy.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough and helps activate the yeast.

Vegetable oil: Provides moisture and richness to the dough.

All-purpose flour: The main structure of the beignets, giving them their texture.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the beignets.

Powdered sugar: Used for dusting the beignets, adding a sweet finish.

When preparing the dough for beignets, ensure that the water is warm but not too hot, ideally between 105°F and 110°F. This temperature range is optimal for activating the yeast without killing it. Additionally, when kneading the dough, use the heel of your hand to push the dough away from you, then fold it back over itself. This technique helps develop the gluten, resulting in a smoother and more elastic dough.

• warm water - Substitute with warm milk: Warm milk can help create a richer dough and can also help activate the yeast.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used in the same quantity and does not need to be dissolved in water first.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a slightly different flavor and also helps with browning.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with melted butter: Melted butter can add a richer flavor to the dough.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with bread flour: Bread flour has a higher protein content which can result in a chewier texture.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a slightly different flavor profile and can be used in the same quantity.

• powdered sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar: Granulated sugar can be ground into a fine powder to mimic the texture of powdered sugar.

• Allow the beignets to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Place the beignets in an airtight container. Line the container with parchment paper to absorb any excess moisture.
• Store the container at room temperature if you plan to consume the beignets within 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
• To freeze, arrange the cooled beignets on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Transfer the frozen beignets to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to enjoy, reheat the beignets in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
• Dust with powdered sugar again before serving to restore their delightful sweetness.

• Preheat the air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Place the leftover beignets in the basket in a single layer. Heat for 2-3 minutes until warmed through. This method keeps them crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

• For a quick microwave option, place the beignets on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. This method is fast but may make them slightly less crispy.

• If you prefer using an oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the beignets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat for about 5-7 minutes until they are warm and slightly crispy.

• For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the beignets in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, ensuring they are warmed through. This method helps maintain their texture.

• To add a touch of freshness, sprinkle a bit more powdered sugar on the beignets after reheating, regardless of the method you choose. This will enhance their sweetness and presentation.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar, and later to mix in the vegetable oil, flour, and salt.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure the warm water and flour accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the yeast, sugar, vegetable oil, and salt precisely.

• Whisk: Helps in mixing the warm water, yeast, and sugar until frothy.

• Rolling pin: Used to roll out the dough to the desired thickness of about ¼ inch.

• Knife or dough cutter: Used to cut the rolled-out dough into squares.

• Air fryer: The appliance used to cook the dough squares until they are golden brown.

• Cooling rack: Allows the beignets to cool slightly after they are air-fried.

• Sifter or fine mesh strainer: Used to dust the beignets with powdered sugar evenly.

• Pastry brush: Optional, but can be used to lightly brush the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking.

• Floured surface: A clean, flat surface dusted with flour to knead and roll out the dough.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting to save time during the cooking process.

Use a stand mixer: If you have one, use a stand mixer to combine the dough ingredients quickly and efficiently.

Preheat the air fryer: Start preheating the air fryer while you are rolling out the dough to save time.

Cut uniform squares: Use a ruler or a dough cutter to ensure all dough squares are the same size for even cooking.

Batch cooking: Cook multiple batches of beignets in the air fryer to maximize efficiency.