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.
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.
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.
Follow us on Pinterest for more cozy ideas.
What are beignets?
Can I make the custard ahead of time?
What’s the best way to store leftover beignets?
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

New Orleans Beignets with Custard
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
- In another bowl, mix together flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and the yeast mixture.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours.
- Roll out the dough and cut it into squares.
- Heat oil in a deep pan and fry the squares until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side.
- Drain the beignets on paper towels and dust them with powdered sugar.
- 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.
- Remove from heat and add vanilla extract.
- Serve warm beignets with custard on the side.