Heavenly Gluten-Free Beignets Recipe

Fluffy Homemade Gluten-Free Beignets Recipe for Sweet Brunch Joy

Some culinary delights sparkle with gluten-free beignets recipe magic that transport you straight to the vibrant streets of New Orleans.

These golden, pillowy pastries dance with a delicate sweetness that melts instantly on your tongue.

Light as clouds and dusted with powdered sugar, these treats break free from traditional wheat-based constraints.

Crafted with simple ingredients and a touch of love, these beignets promise a delectable experience for anyone seeking a delightful gluten-free indulgence.

Each bite offers a crisp exterior giving way to a tender, warm center that begs to be savored.

The aroma alone will draw you into this delightful culinary adventure.

Get ready to whip up a batch that rivals the most legendary French Quarter bakeries.

Serve Gluten-Free Beignets Warm and Fluffy

  • Sweet Breakfast Companion: Pair these golden gluten-free beignets with a steaming cup of café au lait or rich hot chocolate for a traditional New Orleans-style morning treat. The warm, sugary pastries complement the rich, creamy beverage perfectly.
  • Dessert Decadence: Transform these beignets into an elegant dessert by serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or drizzling them with warm chocolate sauce. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can add an extra layer of indulgence.
  • Brunch Centerpiece: Create a stunning brunch spread by arranging the beignets on a beautiful platter with fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or mandarin orange segments. Offer various dipping sauces such as raspberry coulis or caramel for guests to customize their experience.
  • Party Pleaser: For gatherings or potlucks, prepare these beignets in advance and reheat them just before serving. Stack them on a tiered dessert stand and watch how quickly they disappear – they're sure to be the star of any social event.

Best Storage Tips for Gluten-Free Beignets

  • Fridge Freshness Strategy: Store leftover beignets in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Refrigerate for up to 2 days, understanding the texture might slightly change after cooling.
  • Quick Reheat Magic: Warm refrigerated beignets in an air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes to restore their crispy exterior. Alternatively, use a toaster oven for similar results, ensuring they become warm and slightly crunchy.
  • Freezer-Friendly Approach: Wrap individual beignets in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for maximum 1 month. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before reheating to maintain their delicate texture.
  • Make-Ahead Wisdom: Prepare dough up to 24 hours in advance and store covered in the refrigerator. Remove 1 hour before shaping to allow dough to reach room temperature, ensuring optimal rising and texture for your gluten-free treats.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Calories: 250 kcal

Servings: 9

Gluten-Free Beignets Ingredient List for Sweet Bites

For Yeast Activation:
  • Dry Active Yeast: Magical rising agent that helps dough become light and fluffy, choose fresh packets with recent expiration dates for best results.
  • Sugar: Feeds the yeast and kickstarts fermentation, enhancing the beignet's delicate texture.
  • Warm Water: Creates the perfect warm bath for yeast to wake up and start working its magic.
For Beignet Base:
  • Gluten-Free Flour Blend: Specially crafted mixture ensuring tender, crispy beignets without gluten, look for blends with rice or potato starch for best texture.
  • Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances the sweetness, use fine-grain salt for even distribution.
  • Coconut Milk: Adds moisture and subtle tropical richness, opt for full-fat canned version for creamier results.
  • Egg: Binds ingredients together and provides structure, room temperature eggs mix more smoothly.
  • Melted Butter: Introduces rich flavor and helps create a tender crumb, use unsalted butter for better control of saltiness.
For Cooking and Finishing:
  • Cooking Oil: Neutral oil with high smoke point like canola or vegetable oil ensures crispy, golden beignets.
  • Powdered Sugar: Classic sweet topping that creates a delightful snowy blanket, sift for even coverage and lighter dusting.

Tools That Help You Fry Gluten-Free Beignets Just Right

  • Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients smoothly.
  • Whisk: Perfect for blending flour and mixing ingredients without lumps.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: Precise measurements ensure recipe success.
  • Sharp knife or pizza cutter: Needed to cut dough into neat beignet squares.
  • Dutch oven or heavy cast iron skillet: Critical for deep frying beignets at correct temperature.
  • Thermometer: Helps maintain oil at exact 350°F for perfect frying.
  • Wax paper: Used for rolling out dough with minimal sticking.
  • Paper towels: Great for draining excess oil from fried beignets.
  • Tongs or slotted spoon: Helps safely remove beignets from hot oil.
  • Plate or shallow dish: Convenient for tossing beignets in powdered sugar.

Instructions to Make Gluten-Free Beignets at Home

Gluten-Free Beignets Magic

  • Yeast Awakening

Warm water becomes the cozy home for sugar and yeast. Let this mixture bubble and dance for a few minutes until it looks alive and excited.

  • Dough Creation

Mix gluten-free flour with a pinch of salt. Invite the frothy yeast, coconut milk, egg, and melted butter to join the party. Stir until everything becomes friends and forms a soft, slightly clingy dough.

  • Dough Transformation

Wrap the bowl like a comfort blanket and let the dough relax. Find a warm spot where it can grow and expand, nearly doubling in size during its peaceful rest.

  • Beignet Shaping

Sprinkle gluten-free flour on a clean surface. Gently roll out the dough and slice into cute little squares, each one ready for its crispy adventure.

  • Crispy Golden Bath

Heat oil until it shimmers with anticipation. Drop the squares into the hot oil, watching them turn golden and puffy. Flip them once to ensure a perfect tan on both sides.

  • Sugar Shower

Rescue the beignets from their oil bath and let them rest on paper towels. While still warm, roll them in a snowstorm of powdered sugar until they’re completely dressed in sweet white.

Toppings and Fillings for Gluten-Free Beignets to Try

  • Beignet Baking Brilliance: Elevate your gluten-free beignet experience with these expert tips and delightful variations.
  • Temperature Trick: Use a candy thermometer to maintain precise oil temperature, ensuring perfectly golden and crispy beignets every single time.
  • Flavor Fusion: Experiment with different gluten-free flour blends like almond or coconut flour to create unique taste profiles and enhance the beignets' texture.
  • Storage Secrets: Keep leftover beignets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat briefly in an air fryer to restore their crispy exterior and soft interior.
  • Creative Coating Carnival: Beyond classic powdered sugar, try cinnamon sugar, chocolate drizzle, or a sprinkle of lavender-infused sugar for unexpected and delicious twists on traditional beignets.
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Heavenly Gluten-Free Beignets Recipe

Heavenly Gluten-Free Beignets Recipe


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4.5 from 38 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Yield: 9 1x

Description

Creamy New Orleans Beignets offer a delightful French Quarter experience with powdered sugar-dusted pillowy pastries. Southern bakeries have perfected this classic sweet treat that brings pure comfort and joy to eager dessert enthusiasts.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups oil
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 ½ cups gluten-free flour blend
  • ⅓ cup canned coconut milk (150 ml)
  • 6 tbsps warm water (110°F)
  • 2 tbsps sugar
  • 2 tbsps melted butter
  • 2 tsp dry active yeast
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1/8 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Yeast Activation: Dissolve sugar in warm water, sprinkle dry active yeast, and allow the mixture to become frothy and bubbly, indicating yeast is ready for dough preparation.
  2. Dough Preparation: Blend gluten-free flour and salt in a large mixing bowl. Introduce activated yeast, coconut milk, whisked egg, and melted butter, mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
  3. Dough Rising: Drape dough with plastic wrap and place in a warm environment, such as a slightly heated oven with door slightly open. Allow dough to rise and double in volume for approximately one hour.
  4. Shaping and Cutting: Dust wax paper with gluten-free flour, gently roll dough to ½-inch thickness. Slice into 1-inch squares using a pizza cutter or sharp knife.
  5. Frying Process: Heat oil in a deep Dutch oven or cast iron skillet to 350°F. Carefully lower beignet squares into hot oil, frying in small batches until both sides achieve a golden, crispy texture.
  6. Finishing Touch: Remove beignets onto paper towels to drain excess oil. While still warm, generously dust with powdered sugar, ensuring complete and luxurious coverage.

Notes

  • Activate Yeast Carefully: Ensure water temperature is between 100-110°F to wake up yeast without killing it; bubbles and foam indicate successful activation.
  • Create Warm Rising Environment: Use slightly warmed oven or draft-free spot to help gluten-free dough rise effectively; consistent temperature promotes better texture.
  • Control Oil Temperature: Maintain steady 350°F during frying to prevent soggy or burnt beignets; use candy thermometer for precise monitoring.
  • Handle Delicate Dough Gently: Gluten-free dough requires soft touch; avoid overworking to maintain tender, light texture during rolling and cutting.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 9
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 12 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
Jessica Martin

Jessica Martin

Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

Recipe Development, Food Styling and Photography​, Seasonal and Local Ingredients​, Vegetarian and Vegan Cuisine​, Culinary Education​

Education

Portland Community College

  • Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety. Gained hands-on experience in preparing diverse cuisines and understanding flavor profiles

Oregon Culinary Institute

  • Program: Baking and Pastry Certificate
  • Focus: Specialized education in baking fundamentals, pastry arts, and dessert presentation. Emphasized creativity and precision in crafting baked goods.​

Jessica Martin is a talented food writer and recipe creator who specializes in seasonal cooking and approachable home baking. 

Educated at Portland Community College with additional pastry training from Oregon Culinary Institute, Jessica’s culinary journey spans nearly a decade of creating and sharing flavorful recipes. 

Her deep appreciation for local ingredients shapes each of her recipes, making them both accessible and inspiring. At Beard and Bonnet, Jessica uses her cheerful, down-to-earth writing to help readers effortlessly bring new tastes and creative dishes into their daily routines.

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