Air Fryer Beignets: A Tasty, Quick Treat?

Beignets are a delicious treat, but can you make them in an air fryer? The answer is yes! Air fryer beignets are a quick, easy, and healthy alternative to the traditional deep-fried version. This cooking method gives you the same delicious taste without the need for excess oil. The air fryer also makes the process faster and easier, with less cleanup required. So, if you're looking for a tasty dessert that you can make in no time, air fryer beignets are a great option!

Air fryer beignet ingredients

Air fryer beignets are a healthier alternative to the traditional deep-fried version, and they are also easier to make. The ingredients needed to make this recipe are:

• Flour: Use self-rising flour, not all-purpose flour, as it will not give the dough the necessary lift.
• Yogurt: This makes the dessert tender. You can use plain yogurt, Greek yogurt, or sour cream.
• Flavorings: Sugar and a dash of vanilla.
• Butter: Melt some for brushing on top.
• Powdered Sugar: Dust the beignets with lots of powdered sugar for the perfect beignet.
• Milk: 1/3 cup of warm whole milk (110-120°F) (80ml). Warm milk helps to activate the yeast for perfectly risen and light air fryer beignets.
• Yeast: 1 teaspoon of active dry yeast. Dry yeast comes in a packet or a jar and needs to be combined with warm milk and sugar to activate it before adding it to the other ingredients.
• Butter: 4 tablespoons of unsalted melted butter (57g). Melt the butter and allow it to cool slightly before using it. It will be divided, with some used in the dough and the rest used to brush the tops of the beignet squares before air frying.
• Cooking Spray: Use a cooking spray that has a neutral flavor and is intended for baking to prevent the dough from sticking to the air fryer basket.
• Powdered Sugar: Used for dusting the tops of the hot beignets, this ingredient gives the pastry its signature appearance.
• Egg: 1 large beaten egg.
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
• Vanilla: 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.

You can also add a dash of cinnamon sugar on top of the beignets while they are hot for a wonderful spice flavor!

Making the dough

Step 1: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the wet ingredients: start with the milk, sugar, and yeast. For the milk, make sure it is warmed to about 100-110°F; this temperature will help activate the yeast without killing it. Whisk the ingredients together and let the mixture sit for 3-5 minutes until it becomes bubbly and foamy. Then, add the remaining wet ingredients: salt, egg, vanilla, and melted butter. Whisk everything together until well combined.

Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients

Now it's time to add the flour. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment or do it by hand. Start by adding half of the flour to the wet mixture and combine until incorporated. Then gradually add the remaining flour until a soft and slightly sticky dough forms. If you are using a stand mixer, mix on low speed at first, then increase to medium-low speed until a smooth dough forms, which should take about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for 3-4 minutes. This step helps to develop the gluten in the dough, which will give the beignets their chewy texture. After kneading, shape the dough into a ball.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough ball into a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place (about 75°F) for 1 to 2 hours, or until it has visibly puffed up. The dough should increase in size by about 50%.

Step 5: Roll and Cut the Dough

Once the dough has risen, it's time to roll it out and cut it into the desired shape. Place the dough on a floured surface and use a rolling pin to roll it into a rectangle that is about 1/4-inch thick. Then, use a pizza cutter or a sharp knife to cut the dough into squares or diamond shapes. The size of the shapes can vary depending on your preference, but keep in mind that you will need to cook the beignets in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer.

And there you have it! Your beignet dough is now ready to be cooked in the air fryer. Follow the remaining steps in the recipe to cook and serve your delicious, fluffy beignets.

Resting the dough

After kneading the dough, it is recommended to let it rest and rise before cutting and frying. This can be done by placing the dough in a greased bowl, covering it with plastic wrap, and letting it rise in a warm spot (around 75°F) for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours. The dough should increase in size by about 50%.

If you are making traditional beignets, the dough is typically refrigerated overnight or for up to 24 hours after kneading. This slower rise helps to develop the flavour of the yeast and creates a chewier texture. Make sure to use a bowl that is large enough to allow the dough to expand.

When using an air fryer to make beignets, the dough can be rested at room temperature for about 15 minutes after cutting it into squares. This will help the dough relax and make it easier to work with before air frying.

It is important not to skip the resting step, as it is crucial for the dough to develop the right texture and flavour. The dough needs time to rise and rest, whether at room temperature or in the refrigerator, depending on the recipe you are following.

Additionally, when making a big batch of beignets, it is recommended to keep the cooked beignets warm in a low oven (around 200°F) while you finish cooking the rest. This will help maintain their texture and ensure they stay warm and fresh.

Air fryer temperature and cooking time

Air fryer beignets are cooked at a range of temperatures, depending on the recipe. Some recipes suggest cooking the beignets at 350°F, while others recommend 375°F or even 400°F.

The cooking time for air fryer beignets also varies, but most recipes suggest cooking them for around 5-6 minutes. Some recipes recommend cooking the beignets for a little longer, up to 10 minutes.

It's important to note that the cooking time may depend on the size and shape of the beignets, as well as the specific air fryer being used. Some recipes suggest cutting the dough into squares, while others recommend diamonds or circles. The number of beignets cooked at one time can also affect the cooking time, as they should not be overcrowded in the air fryer.

Additionally, some recipes suggest brushing the beignets with melted butter during the cooking process, which can affect the cooking time and the final colour of the beignets.

Serving suggestions

Beignets are a versatile treat, perfect for breakfast, as a snack, dessert, or a late-night sweet treat. They are often served with a hot drink, such as coffee, hot chocolate, or a hot beverage. For an authentic New Orleans experience, serve your beignets with a cup of coffee and a cup of au lait (a combination of half coffee and half steamed milk).

For a more indulgent treat, you could add a drizzle of chocolate ganache or chocolate syrup to your beignets. For a healthier option, you could dip them in Greek yoghurt. Alternatively, fill them with Nutella or jam before coating with sugar.

Beignets are also delicious when served with ice cream, chocolate sauce, or other sweet treats. For a real New Orleans-style feast, serve them with a cup of coffee and a cup of au lait.

Frequently asked questions