Easiest Cinnamon Buttermilk Beignets

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cinnamon buttermilk beignets are incredibly simple to make and don’t require any yeast, making them quicker than traditional recipes. The buttermilk adds tang and tenderness to the dough, while the cinnamon gives them a cozy, spiced flavor. They’re crisp on the outside, soft on the inside, and dusted with powdered sugar for the perfect sweet finish.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Granulated sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Salt
• Buttermilk
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• Unsalted butter (melted)
• Oil for frying (such as vegetable or canola)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
3. Gradually stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
4. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead until smooth.
5. Roll out the dough to about ½ inch thickness and cut into small squares or rectangles.
6. Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
7. Fry the beignets in batches until golden brown on both sides, about 2 minutes per side.
8. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
9. Dust generously with powdered sugar while warm.
10. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 20–24 beignets and serves 4 to 6 people. The total prep and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.

Variations

• Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a deeper spice profile.
• Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a caramelized taste.
• Drizzle with a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for extra sweetness.
• Mix mini chocolate chips into the dough for a dessert twist.
• Serve with a side of fruit preserves or chocolate sauce for dipping.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover beignets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

FAQs

What is a beignet?

A beignet is a type of fried dough pastry, similar to a doughnut, commonly associated with New Orleans cuisine. It’s usually square-shaped and generously dusted with powdered sugar.

Can I make these beignets without buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with a mix of milk and vinegar or lemon juice (1 tablespoon acid per cup of milk) if needed.

Do I need a deep fryer to make beignets?

No, a heavy-bottomed pot or skillet filled with oil works just as well for frying.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before rolling and frying. Let it come to room temperature before working with it.

How do I know when the oil is ready for frying?

The oil is ready when it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can also test it by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil—it should sizzle and float to the top.

Why are my beignets not fluffy?

Overmixing the dough or using old baking powder can result in dense beignets. Make sure to use fresh ingredients and mix gently.

Can I bake these beignets instead of frying?

Baking won’t give you the same texture, but you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 12–15 minutes, then dust with powdered sugar.

What oil is best for frying beignets?

Neutral oils with high smoke points like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil are best for frying.

Can I freeze beignets?

It’s best to freeze the dough rather than the fried beignets. Wrap the cut dough pieces in plastic wrap and freeze. Fry from frozen, adding an extra minute or so to the cooking time.

Are these beignets very sweet?

The dough itself is mildly sweet, but the powdered sugar topping gives them their classic sweetness. You can adjust the sugar to taste.

Conclusion

These Easiest Cinnamon Buttermilk Beignets are a comforting, bakery-style treat that you can whip up in no time. With their tender interior and sweet, spiced flavor, they’re perfect for cozy mornings or special occasions. Whether you’re making them for the first time or as a quick dessert, they’re sure to impress.

Easiest Cinnamon Buttermilk Beignets

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These Easiest Cinnamon Buttermilk Beignets are fluffy, golden pillows of fried dough with a warm cinnamon flavor. Quick to make and yeast-free, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 20–24 beignets
• Category: Breakfast, Dessert
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
3. Gradually stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
4. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead until smooth.
5. Roll out the dough to about ½ inch thickness and cut into small squares or rectangles.
6. Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
7. Fry the beignets in batches until golden brown on both sides, about 2 minutes per side.
8. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
9. Dust generously with powdered sugar while warm.
10. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

• Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a deeper spice profile.
• Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a caramelized taste.
• Drizzle with glaze for extra sweetness.
• Mix in mini chocolate chips for a dessert twist.
• Serve with fruit preserves or chocolate sauce for dipping.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4–5 beignets
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 45mg