There’s something magical about biting into a warm, fluffy French beignet filled with sweet, tangy jelly. These little pillows of joy, often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as a festive treat, bring comfort and indulgence in every bite. The French jelly-filled beignet recipe is a fun and slightly elevated twist on the classic doughnut. While beignets are already beloved for their golden, crispy exteriors, adding a burst of fruit preserves inside makes them even more irresistible.
Whether you’re looking for a fun weekend baking project, a crowd-pleasing treat for brunch, or a festive dessert to share with friends and family, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Easy to make but full of flavor, these French jelly-filled beignets will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. And with their delightful fruity filling, they’re sure to bring a little bit of sweetness to any occasion!
Table of contents
Why this French jelly filled Beignet Recipe Works
The French jelly-filled beignet recipe works wonders because it balances several important aspects: the soft, pillowy texture of the dough, the warm, crisp outer shell, and the burst of fruit preserves inside. It’s all about getting the dough just right, soft enough to melt in your mouth but sturdy enough to hold the filling without falling apart. The secret lies in letting the dough rise to perfection and frying it at the right temperature.
The jelly filling also plays a big part in making these beignets extra special. You can use any jam or fruit preserve you like, from raspberry to apricot, giving you the flexibility to cater to your flavor preferences. It’s not only about taste, but texture as well, the jelly becomes wonderfully gooey when paired with the warm beignet, creating a delightful contrast with the crispy exterior.
Plus, the recipe can easily be adapted for dietary needs. For those looking for a lighter option, you can use a low-sugar fruit preserve or even try a sugar-free jam. If you’re avoiding gluten, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend. The versatility of this recipe makes it suitable for many, and with just a few tweaks, you can make it work for your dietary restrictions without sacrificing taste!
Recipe Card
French Jelly Filled Beignet Recipe
Cuisine: FrenchDifficulty: Medium12
servings20
minutes15
minutes210
kcalThis French jelly-filled beignet recipe brings the flavors of a Parisian patisserie to your kitchen. Light, airy, and bursting with sweet fruit filling!
Ingredients
- For the Dough
3 cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 packet (2¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
¾ cup warm milk (110°F)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vegetable oil, for frying
- For Filling & Dusting
1 cup fruit jelly or jam (strawberry, raspberry, or your favorite)
½ cup powdered sugar for dusting
Directions
- Step 1: Make the Dough
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Step 2: Shape the Beignets
- Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface to ½-inch thickness.
- Use a 3-inch round cutter to cut out circles. Cover with a towel and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Step 3: Fry the Beignets
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C)
- Fry the dough circles in batches for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Step 4: Fill and Dust
- Use a piping bag fitted with a long nozzle to inject fruit jelly into the center of each beignet.
- Dust generously with powdered sugar and serve warm.
Notes
- Make sure the oil temperature stays at 350°F to avoid greasy beignets.
- For an even lighter texture, let the dough rise twice before shaping.
Tips for perfect French Jelly Filled Beignet Recipe
- Test the Dough: If your yeast doesn’t foam, it may be inactive. Use fresh yeast for best results.
- Perfect Dough Consistency: The key to the perfect beignet is the dough. It should be soft and slightly sticky, but not too wet. When kneading, make sure not to overwork the dough, this will make the beignets tough. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle just a little bit of flour at a time, but don’t overdo it. The dough should remain soft and elastic.
- Keep the Oil Temperature Steady: Use a thermometer to monitor the oil and avoid burning.
- Frying in Small Batches: To ensure your beignets fry evenly, don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry them in small batches, leaving enough space between each one. This helps maintain the oil temperature and ensures each beignet is perfectly golden and crispy.
- Jelly Consistency: Use a thicker jelly or jam to prevent it from leaking out.
- Flavor Variations: Try filling with lemon curd or chocolate ganache for a twist!
French Jelly Filled Beignet Recipe Variants
1. Chocolate-Filled Beignets
For those with a sweet tooth, try filling your beignets with melted chocolate or Nutella. This decadent filling is rich and gooey, making the beignet even more indulgent. Pair it with a dusting of powdered sugar for a delicious chocolatey twist.
2. Citrus and Cream Cheese Filling
For a tangy twist, try a citrus cream cheese filling. Mix cream cheese with a little orange or lemon zest and powdered sugar. The cream cheese adds richness, while the citrus brings a refreshing zing. This variant is perfect for brunches or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a twist on the classic.
3. Apple Cinnamon Beignets
Seasonal and full of warmth, apple cinnamon beignets are perfect for the fall. Simply sauté diced apples with cinnamon and a little sugar before filling your dough. The apple filling will become sweet and soft when fried, with a wonderful blend of spices that will make your kitchen smell amazing.
4. Savory Beignets
While sweet fillings are the go-to for beignets, savory options can be just as delightful. Try filling your beignets with a mixture of cheese and herbs, or even leftover cooked meats. Savory beignets make for a unique appetizer or snack at parties.
FAQs
Yes! You can use custard, chocolate, or even Nutella for a delicious twist.
These are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain crispness.
Yes, though they won’t be as crispy. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until golden.
The best oil for frying beignets is one with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils allow the beignets to fry at the correct temperature without burning. Avoid olive oil, as it has a lower smoke point and can give the beignets an undesirable taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s no denying that French jelly-filled beignets are a true indulgence. They’re the perfect blend of sweet, fruity, and fried, what more could you want? Whether you’re making them for a weekend treat, a festive gathering, or simply to enjoy with your morning coffee, these beignets are sure to impress. Don’t forget to experiment with different fillings and toppings to make them your own!
If you loved these, try our Matcha Cream Pop Recipe, a refreshing and creamy treat perfect for warm days and easy entertaining.
Leave a Reply