Perfect Beignets in your Air Fryer
Perfect Beignets in your Air Fryer! is a easy American (New Orleans) recipe that serves 4. 180 calories per serving. Recipe by Preppy Kitchen on YouTube.
Prep: 27 min | Cook: 4 min | Total: 36 min
Cost: $1.24 total, $0.31 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (sifted)
- 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar
- 2 teaspoons Baking Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 3/4 cup Milk (whole or 2% works best)
- 1 large Egg (room temperature)
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (melted; divided (2 tbsp for dough, 2 tbsp for brushing))
- 1/4 cup Powdered Sugar (for dusting; sift before use)
Instructions
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl whisk together the sifted flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly distributed.
Time: PT2M
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate small bowl whisk the milk, egg, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter until smooth.
Time: PT2M
Form the Dough
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir with the whisk just until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Do not over‑mix.
Time: PT3M
Rest the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rest at room temperature for 10 minutes. This relaxes the gluten.
Time: PT10M
Preheat Air Fryer
Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and let it preheat for about 3 minutes.
Time: PT3M
Temperature: 350°F
Shape the Beignets
Lightly flour a clean surface, roll the dough to about ½‑inch thickness, and cut into 2‑inch circles using a round cutter.
Time: PT5M
Butter the Dough
Brush each cut‑out piece on both sides with the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
Time: PT2M
Air Fry the Beignets
Place the butter‑brushed beignets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 3‑4 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown.
Time: PT4M
Temperature: 350°F
Dust with Powdered Sugar
Immediately after removing from the air fryer, sift powdered sugar over the hot beignets on a cooling rack.
Time: PT1M
Serve
Serve the beignets warm. They are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated briefly in the air fryer.
Time: PT0M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 180
- Protein
- 4g
- Carbohydrates
- 22g
- Fat
- 8g
- Fiber
- 1g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Contains gluten, Contains dairy
Allergens: Wheat, Eggs, Dairy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of All-Purpose Flour: Bread Flour, Gluten‑Free All‑Purpose Flour
- Instead of Granulated Sugar: Coconut Sugar
- Instead of Baking Powder: Cream of Tartar + Baking Soda (1:2 ratio)
- Instead of Salt: Kosher Salt
- Instead of Milk: Almond Milk, Soy Milk
- Instead of Egg: Flax Egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water)
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Margarine, Coconut Oil (melted)
- Instead of Powdered Sugar: Confectioners' Sugar
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Rolling Pin
- Round Cutter
- Pastry Brush
- Air Fryer
- Cooling Rack (optional)
- Fine Mesh Sieve (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Do not over‑mix the dough; it should remain slightly sticky.
- Rest the dough for at least 10 minutes to relax gluten.
- Preheat the air fryer to ensure even puffing.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use melted butter instead of oil for a richer flavor and a crispier crust.
- Dust with powdered sugar while the beignets are still warm for a glossy finish.
Troubleshooting
Beignets are dense and do not puff.
Make sure the dough rested for the full 10 minutes and that the air fryer was preheated. Over‑mixing also reduces lift; mix just until combined.
Beignets stick to the air fryer basket.
Brush the basket lightly with oil or use parchment paper cut to fit. Also ensure each piece is brushed with melted butter before cooking.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat in the air fryer for 2 minutes.
Freezer: Freeze baked beignets in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a zip‑top bag; reheat from frozen for 4‑5 minutes at 350°F.
Room temperature: Best eaten the same day; can sit out for up to 4 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- The dough can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead and kept refrigerated; shape and brush just before cooking.
- Freeze shaped, un‑browned beignets on a tray, then transfer to a bag; air fry from frozen for a quick treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of beignets in New Orleans cuisine?
Beignets originated in France as a light fried dough, but they became iconic in New Orleans after French settlers introduced them in the 18th century. Served hot and dusted with powdered sugar, they are a staple of Creole breakfast culture and a must‑try at cafés like Café du Monde.
What are the traditional regional variations of beignets in American (New Orleans) cuisine?
In New Orleans, beignets are typically square, deep‑fried, and heavily dusted with powdered sugar. Some variations add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough or serve them with a side of chicory coffee. Outside the region, beignets may be shaped into rings or filled with fruit preserves.
How are beignets traditionally served in New Orleans?
Traditionally, beignets are served warm, dusted generously with powdered sugar, and enjoyed with a cup of strong coffee or chicory coffee. They are often eaten for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.
On what occasions are beignets commonly enjoyed in New Orleans culture?
Beignets are a daily treat in New Orleans but are especially popular during Mardi Mardi celebrations, festivals, and as a comforting breakfast after a night out. They are also served at brunches and casual gatherings.
What authentic ingredients are essential for traditional New Orleans‑style beignets?
The authentic base includes all‑purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, milk, egg, and melted butter. Powdered sugar for dusting is essential. Substitutes like gluten‑free flour or plant‑based milks can be used, but they change the classic texture.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making air fryer beignets?
Common errors include over‑mixing the dough, skipping the resting period, overcrowding the air fryer basket, and not preheating the fryer. Each mistake can lead to dense, unevenly browned beignets.
Why does this air fryer beignet recipe brush the dough with melted butter instead of using oil?
Butter adds a richer flavor and helps create a crisp, golden crust that mimics the texture of deep‑fried beignets. Oil would work for crispness but lacks the buttery depth that defines the classic taste.
Can I make air fryer beignets ahead of time and how should I store them?
Yes. Shape the dough, brush with butter, and freeze the uncooked pieces. When ready, air fry directly from frozen for 4‑5 minutes. Cooked beignets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated briefly in the air fryer.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the air fryer beignets are done?
The beignets should be puffed, lightly golden on the outside, and soft and airy inside. They will rise slightly during cooking and should have a delicate crust that holds the powdered sugar dusting.
What does the YouTube channel Preppy Kitchen specialize in?
The YouTube channel Preppy Kitchen focuses on quick, approachable home‑cooking tutorials that often incorporate modern appliances like air fryers and Instant Pots, delivering stylish yet practical recipes for everyday cooks.
How does the YouTube channel Preppy Kitchen's approach to New Orleans‑style cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Preppy Kitchen emphasizes using convenient kitchen gadgets such as air fryers to recreate classic dishes like beignets with less oil and mess, while still preserving authentic flavors. This contrasts with channels that rely on traditional deep‑frying methods.
Last updated: September 2, 2026
