Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets for Your Sweet Tooth

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that satisfies your sweet tooth, you’ve come to the right place! These Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets are not just any dessert; they are little pillows of joy that will transport you to a cozy café in Paris. The combination of floral lavender and the rich aroma of vanilla bean creates an irresistible flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, these beignets are sure to bring smiles and happy memories.

I love making these beignets because they’re surprisingly easy to prepare and the result is simply divine. Plus, they fill your kitchen with a heavenly scent while they bake. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to share it with everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe uses straightforward ingredients and steps, making it easy even for beginners.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a sweet treat! These beignets are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy fresh beignets whenever you crave them.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of lavender and vanilla creates a unique taste that feels both gourmet and comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for these delightful beignets. With just a few items from your pantry and some fresh flavors, you’ll be on your way to creating something truly special.

• 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Essential for sweetness and smooth texture)
• 2 tablespoons Plant-Based Milk (Almond milk adds a lovely subtle flavor)
• 1 teaspoon Dried Lavender Flowers (Ensure you use culinary-grade lavender)
• 1 bean Vanilla Bean (Using fresh beans outshines vanilla extract)
• 1/2 cup Cashew Yogurt (Can swap with any non-dairy yogurt)
• 1/4 cup Vegan Butter (Coconut oil works as a flavorful alternative)
• 1/4 cup Coconut Cream (Use more vegan butter instead if not a coconut fan)
• 1 cup Active Dry Yeast (Ensure it’s fresh for best puff)
• 2 tablespoons Sugar (Sweetens the dough nicely)
• 1 teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavor and dough structure)
• 3 cups All-Purpose Flour (Feel free to use a gluten-free blend)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations you can try based on your preferences:

• Change the Flavor: Swap out the lavender for lemon zest or orange blossom water for a citrusy twist.
• Add Chocolate Chips: For chocolate lovers, mix in some dairy-free chocolate chips into the dough before frying.
• Use Different Milk: Experiment with different plant-based milks like oat or soy for varied flavors.
• Glaze Instead of Sugar: Instead of powdered sugar on top, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and plant-based milk.

How to Make Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets for Your Sweet Tooth

Step 1: Activate Your Yeast

Start by combining your active dry yeast with warm plant-based milk and 2 tablespoons of sugar in a bowl. Let this sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. Activating the yeast is crucial because it ensures your beignets will rise beautifully and become light and fluffy.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, salt, and dried lavender flowers. This step helps distribute the salt evenly throughout the flour mixture so every bite is perfectly seasoned.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together cashew yogurt, melted vegan butter, coconut cream, the seeds scraped from the vanilla bean, and the activated yeast mixture. Stir well until everything is combined smoothly. This creamy mixture will add richness to your beignets.

Step 4: Form the Dough

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully incorporated. Knead gently until you have a soft dough. It’s important not to over-knead; we want those light textures! Once kneaded, cover it with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size—about 60 minutes.

Step 5: Shape Your Beignets

Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release air bubbles. Roll out onto a lightly floured surface about half an inch thick. Cut into squares or rounds using a sharp knife or cookie cutter. Place them on parchment paper while you heat up your oil.

Step 6: Fry Until Golden

In a large pot or deep pan, heat oil over medium heat. Carefully drop in each piece of dough, frying until golden brown on both sides—about 2-3 minutes per side. This is where they turn into those dreamy little pillows!

Step 7: Dust with Powdered Sugar

Once they’re out of the oil and cooled slightly, dust generously with powdered sugar while they’re still warm. This final touch adds sweetness that complements their delicate flavor beautifully!

Enjoy these Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets fresh out of the fryer or at room temperature—they’re delightful either way!

Pro Tips for Making Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets for Your Sweet Tooth

Making beignets can be a delightful adventure in the kitchen, and with these helpful tips, you’re sure to impress your friends and family!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh yeast and culinary-grade lavender can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your beignets. This ensures that your dough rises beautifully and the lavender aroma shines through.

• Knead with Care: Gently knead your dough until smooth but don’t overdo it! Over-kneading can lead to tough beignets instead of the light, fluffy texture we desire.

• Temperature Matters: Make sure your kitchen is warm during the rising process. Yeast thrives in warmth, so a cozy environment will help your dough rise perfectly.

• Fry at the Right Temperature: Heat your oil to around 350°F (175°C) before adding the beignets. If the oil is too hot, they might burn on the outside while remaining raw inside; too cool, and they’ll absorb more oil than necessary.

• Dust Generously: Once your beignets are fried and still warm, dust them generously with powdered sugar. It not only adds sweetness but also creates that iconic snowy appearance!

How to Serve Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets for Your Sweet Tooth

These delicate beignets are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some fun ways to present this sweet treat and make it extra special.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A classic choice that adds sweetness and elegance. Dusting a generous amount over the top makes them look irresistible.

• Fresh Lavender Sprigs: Placing a few sprigs on top of your serving platter not only looks beautiful but also enhances the aromatic experience.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the beignets. Their tartness complements the sweetness wonderfully.

• Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this vegan whipped cream adds an indulgent touch that pairs beautifully with each bite of beignet.

• Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote made from seasonal fruits offers a deliciously fruity sauce that you can drizzle over or serve on the side.

• Herbal Tea: A fragrant cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, balances out the sweetness of your dessert while enhancing the overall experience with its soothing aroma.

Enjoy creating these delightful Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets for Your Sweet Tooth! With just a few simple steps and some pro tips, you’ll have a lovely dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets are not only a treat for your taste buds but also perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them fresh throughout the week or for a special occasion.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the beignets to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the beignets cool completely.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring they are well-sealed.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the beignets on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven for about 5-10 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 15-20 seconds, but this may affect their texture slightly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets for Your Sweet Tooth!

Can I use other flavors instead of lavender?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavorings such as lemon zest or even almond extract. Just keep the proportions similar to maintain balance.

How can I make my Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets for Your Sweet Tooth gluten-free?

You can easily swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that is suitable for baking. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum or another binding agent!

What’s the best way to serve Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets?

These delightful beignets are best served warm with a light dusting of powdered sugar on top. Pair them with coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets! They offer a unique twist on traditional treats while capturing the essence of floral sweetness and warm vanilla. Enjoy making them, and don’t hesitate to share this delightful recipe with friends and family. Happy baking!