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New Orleans Beignets with Custard

May 07, 2026
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Delicious New Orleans beignets filled with custard, dusted with powdered sugar

Warm, pillowy, and dusted with powdered sugar, New Orleans Beignets with Custard are delightful treats that capture the spirit of Bourbon Street. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any time you crave a taste of New Orleans, these sweet pastries are paired beautifully with rich custard. Once you take a bite, you’ll understand why they’re a beloved classic!

Why You’ll Love This New Orleans Beignets with Custard

  • Irresistibly fluffy and sweet, perfect for satisfying your cravings.
  • Quick to whip up, making them great for weekend brunch.
  • Customizable with various flavors and fillings.
  • A fun and exciting project for the whole family.
  • Easy to store for later enjoyment, keeping their flavor intact.

New Orleans Beignets with Custard

Ingredients Needed

For the Beignets:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

For the Custard:

  • 1 cup milk
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for custard)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1

In a bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.

Step 2

In another bowl, mix together flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.

Step 3

In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and the yeast mixture.

Step 4

Combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours.

Step 5

Roll out the dough and cut it into squares.

Step 6

Heat oil in a deep pan and fry the squares until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side.

Step 7

Drain the beignets on paper towels and dust them with powdered sugar.

Step 8

For the custard, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch in a pan. Gradually add milk and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened.

Step 9

Remove from heat and add vanilla extract.

Step 10

Serve warm beignets with custard on the side.


New Orleans Beignets with Custard

Serving Suggestions New Orleans Beignets with Custard

  • Serve alongside fresh fruit for a colorful plate.
  • Pair with a hot cup of café au lait for the perfect breakfast.
  • Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
  • Top with fresh berries for a refreshing contrast.

Tips for Success New Orleans Beignets with Custard

  • Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise.
  • Maintain oil temperature at around 350°F for even frying.
  • Let the custard cool slightly before serving for the best texture.
  • Store leftover beignets in an airtight container at room temperature.

Variations

Here are a few easy ways to change it up:

  • Substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
  • Add orange zest to the custard for a citrus boost.
  • Incorporate chocolate chips into the dough for a sweet surprise.
  • Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or lemon in the custard.

New Orleans Beignets with Custard

Follow us on Pinterest for more cozy ideas.

What are beignets?

Beignets are deep-fried pastries, similar to doughnuts, commonly served with powdered sugar on top.

Can I make the custard ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the custard in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

What’s the best way to store leftover beignets?

Store leftover beignets in an airtight container at room temperature and reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast; just mix it directly into the dry ingredients without proofing.
Delicious New Orleans beignets filled with custard, dusted with powdered sugar

New Orleans Beignets with Custard

Delightful warm, pillowy beignets dusted with powdered sugar, served with rich custard, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 8 pieces
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: Cajun, Creole
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Beignets
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup water Warm water for yeast activation
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet active dry yeast Ensure yeast is fresh
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • to taste cup vegetable oil For frying
  • to taste cup powdered sugar For dusting
For the Custard
  • 1 cup milk
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar For custard
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation of Beignets
  1. In a bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
  2. In another bowl, mix together flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and the yeast mixture.
  4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours.
  5. Roll out the dough and cut it into squares.
  6. Heat oil in a deep pan and fry the squares until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side.
  7. Drain the beignets on paper towels and dust them with powdered sugar.
Preparation of Custard
  1. For the custard, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch in a pan.
  2. Gradually add milk and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened.
  3. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract.
Serving
  1. Serve warm beignets with custard on the side.

Notes

Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise. Maintain oil temperature at around 350°F for even frying. Let the custard cool slightly before serving for the best texture. Store leftover beignets in an airtight container at room temperature.
Written By

Stephanie Mitchell

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