Fluffy Vegan Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets

Introduction

Imagine indulging in a deliciously fluffy, vegan treat that combines the elegance of French patisserie with the whimsy of lavender and vanilla bean. These Fluffy Vegan Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets are a masterpiece of plant-based baking, requiring only everyday ingredients and a bit of creativity to achieve. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make and are sure to impress anyone with their light, airy texture and exquisite flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to elevate their dessert game without sacrificing flavor or principle.

Why This Works

• The balance of lavender and vanilla bean creates a unique and captivating flavor profile that is both soothing and uplifting, making these beignets a standout among vegan desserts.
• The preparation is remarkably straightforward, requiring minimal specialized equipment and utilizing ingredients that are readily available in most health food stores or well-stocked supermarkets.
• Despite their impressive appearance and complex flavor, these beignets require minimal effort, making them an ideal choice for special occasions or everyday treats alike.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup non-dairy milk (such as almond, soy, or coconut milk)
• 1/4 cup canola oil
• 1 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp dried lavender buds
• 1/4 tsp ground vanilla bean
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by activating the yeast in the non-dairy milk. Warm the milk to about 105°F to 115°F, then add the yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the canola oil, vanilla extract, dried lavender buds, and ground vanilla bean. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a smooth batter forms. Add the yeast mixture and mix until fully incorporated.
3. Step 3: Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Step 4: Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to about 375°F. Once the oil is hot, punch down the dough and roll it out to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut out squares of dough, about 2 inches per side. Fry the beignets in batches until they are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain the beignets on paper towels and dust with powdered sugar.

Handy Tips

• For an extra-light texture, make sure not to overmix the batter. Stop mixing as soon as the ingredients come together in a smooth dough.
• If you don’t have vanilla bean, you can substitute with an extra 1/2 tsp of vanilla extract. However, the vanilla bean adds a unique flavor and texture that is worth using if possible.
• Be gentle when handling the dough to prevent developing the gluten, which can make the beignets tough.

Heat Control

Heat control is crucial when frying the beignets. The ideal temperature for frying is between 365°F and 385°F. If the oil is too hot, the beignets will burn on the outside before they are fully cooked on the inside. If the oil is too cool, the beignets will absorb too much oil and be greasy. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature, and adjust the heat as needed to maintain the ideal range.

Crunch Factor

These beignets are meant to be light and airy, with a delicate crunch on the outside giving way to a fluffy interior. To achieve this texture, make sure not to overfry the beignets. They should be golden brown and puffed up, but still tender and yielding to the touch. If you prefer a crisper exterior, you can try frying the beignets for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, but be careful not to overcook them.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For an extra-fluffy texture, try adding a little bit of aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) to the batter. The proteins in the aquafaba will help to strengthen the dough and create a lighter, more tender crumb.
• To make the beignets more visually appealing, try dusting them with powdered sugar in a pattern or design. You can also add a few drops of food coloring to the powdered sugar to create a fun and colorful effect.
• For a shortcut, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to knead the dough. This will save you about 5 minutes of kneading time and help to develop the gluten in the dough more efficiently.

Storage Tips

• These beignets are best served fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• To freeze, place the beignets in a single layer on a baking sheet and put them in the freezer until frozen solid. Then, transfer the frozen beignets to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw the beignets at room temperature or reheat them in the microwave or oven until warm and fluffy.
• For a fun and easy breakfast or brunch option, try filling the beignets with a dollop of vegan whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. You can also top them with fresh fruit or a drizzle of maple syrup for added flavor and nutrition.

Gift Packaging Ideas

These beignets are a lovely gift for friends and family, and can be packaged in a variety of creative and visually appealing ways. Try placing the beignets in a decorative tin or jar, and topping them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh flowers. You can also wrap the beignets individually in parchment paper or wax paper, and tie them with a ribbon or twine for a more rustic and homespun look.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding a different type of extract, such as almond or coconut, to the batter for a unique and delicious flavor twist.
• For a fun and colorful effect, try adding a few drops of food coloring to the batter to create beignets in a variety of colors and hues.
• Experiment with different types of sugar, such as turbinado or muscovado, for a deeper and richer flavor profile.

Troubleshooting

• If the beignets are too dense or heavy, try adjusting the ratio of flour to liquid in the batter. You can also try adding a little bit more yeast to help the dough rise more efficiently.
• If the beignets are too greasy, try adjusting the temperature of the oil or the frying time. You can also try dusting the beignets with a little bit of powdered sugar or cornstarch to help absorb excess oil.
• If the beignets are not cooking evenly, try adjusting the size of the beignets or the frying time. You can also try using a thermometer to monitor the temperature of the oil and ensure that it is within the ideal range.

FAQs

• Can I freeze the dough instead of the cooked beignets? Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 2 months. Simply thaw the dough at room temperature or in the refrigerator, and then proceed with the recipe as instructed.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? No, this recipe contains wheat flour and is not gluten-free. However, you can try substituting the wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Can I double or triple the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to make more beignets. Simply multiply the ingredients accordingly, and adjust the frying time as needed to ensure that the beignets are cooked evenly.

Conclusion

With these Fluffy Vegan Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets, you’ll be able to indulge in a deliciously elegant and sophisticated dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday treats. The combination of lavender and vanilla bean creates a unique and captivating flavor profile that’s sure to impress, and the light and airy texture is a delight to eat. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dessert game without sacrificing flavor or principle. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the delightful taste and texture of these amazing vegan beignets!