Save Festive, light, and fluffy beignets shaped and decorated like Christmas ornaments&mdashperfect for holiday celebrations and treats.
I first served these beignets during the holidays and they were a huge hit with family and friends. The festive decorations make them extra special.
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, 3–4 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 5–7 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 2–3 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 These beignets have become a holiday tradition in my family, bringing joy and sweetness to our gatherings.
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
Nutritional Information
Calories: 175, Total Fat: 7 g, Carbohydrates: 25 g, Protein: 3 g per beignet
Save Enjoy these festive ornament beignets fresh for the best taste and texture.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of dough is used for these beignets?
A soft yeast dough is prepared using active dry yeast, warm milk, sugar, eggs, butter, and flour to achieve a fluffy texture.
- → How are the beignets shaped to resemble Christmas ornaments?
The dough is rolled out and cut into rounds, then decorated with colored icing and edible sprinkles to mimic the appearance of festive ornaments.
- → What is the ideal frying temperature for these beignets?
Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) to ensure the beignets cook evenly and develop a golden brown crust without absorbing excess oil.
- → Can the icing colors be customized?
Yes, the icing can be tinted using various food colorings such as red, green, blue, gold, and silver to create vibrant decorations.
- → Are there any suggested flavor additions for the dough?
For additional warmth and aroma, orange zest or a pinch of cinnamon can be incorporated into the dough before rising.
- → What tools are necessary for preparation and decoration?
Essential tools include a large mixing bowl, rolling pin, 2-inch round cutter, deep fryer or heavy pot, slotted spoon, parchment paper, and a cooling rack.