Vegan Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets

Introduction

When it comes to indulgent treats that can elevate any brunch or dessert table, Vegan Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets are truly a standout. I recently made these delightful pastries for a weekend gathering with friends, and they were an absolute hit! The delicate flavors of lavender and vanilla, combined with the light and airy texture of the beignets, created a unique experience that left everyone wanting more. The warm, sweet aroma filled my kitchen, and each bite was met with smiles and compliments. It’s safe to say that this recipe has officially secured a permanent spot in my collection.

Ingredients

For the Beignets:

• 1 cup warm almond or oat milk
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
• 1 tsp dried culinary lavender, ground
• 2 1/2 – 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tbsp melted coconut oil or vegan butter
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Lavender Sugar Coating:

• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tsp dried lavender, ground
• 1/2 tsp vanilla bean powder (optional)

Instructions

Activate the Yeast:
In a mixing bowl, combine warm almond or oat milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top, stir gently, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This step is crucial for ensuring that your beignets rise beautifully.

Prepare the Dough:
Add salt, vanilla bean paste, ground lavender, and melted coconut oil to the yeast mixture. Gradually add flour, about 1/2 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour until it reaches the right consistency.

Let Dough Rise:
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm area for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size. This rise is essential for creating the light texture of the beignets.

Roll and Cut:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into squares or rounds, about 2 inches in size. The fun part is shaping them; feel free to experiment with different shapes!

Fry the Beignets:
In a deep skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop a few beignets into the hot oil, cooking for 1-2 minutes per side or until they are golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

Coat with Lavender Sugar:
In a bowl, combine sugar, ground lavender, and vanilla bean powder. Roll each beignet in the lavender sugar while they are still warm, allowing the sugar to adhere perfectly.

Serve:
Enjoy the beignets warm with a dusting of extra lavender sugar if desired. They are best served fresh, allowing you to savor their delightful flavors.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 10 beignets
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 150 calories

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 2 hours (including rising time)
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Warm: Serve immediately after frying for the best taste and texture.
• With coffee or tea: These beignets pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or herbal tea.
• Dusting of lavender sugar: For an elegant touch, add an extra dusting of lavender sugar before serving.
• Garnish: Consider garnishing with fresh lavender sprigs for a beautiful presentation.
• Sharing: Perfect for sharing at brunch or a cozy dessert gathering.

Additional Tips

1. Use culinary lavender: Ensure you’re using culinary lavender to avoid any harmful effects from non-food-grade varieties.
2. Check oil temperature: A thermometer is helpful to maintain the correct frying temperature for even cooking.
3. Don’t overcrowd the pot: Fry only a few beignets at a time to avoid lowering the oil temperature.
4. Experiment with flavors: Add other spices or extracts, such as almond or lemon, to create your own variations.
5. Let the oil cool down: After frying, let the oil cool completely before disposing of it or storing it for future use.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate-filled beignets: Add a small piece of vegan chocolate to the center of each beignet before sealing.
• Fruit-flavored sugar: Replace lavender in the sugar coating with ground citrus zest for a fresh twist.
• Savory version: Incorporate herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for a savory take on beignets.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these beignets gluten-free.
• Baked version: For a healthier option, bake the beignets at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes until golden brown, though the texture will differ from fried.

Serving Suggestions

• Brunch buffet: These beignets make an excellent addition to any brunch spread, alongside fruit salads and mimosas.
• Dessert platter: Serve with fresh fruit or a vegan chocolate sauce for dipping.
• Gift idea: Package them in a cute box with a note for a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Accompaniment: Pair with vegan ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
• Afternoon snack: Enjoy them as a sweet treat during your afternoon tea time.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze un-fried beignets. Shape the dough, place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Fry from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the frying time, or bake them at 375°F until warmed through.
• Storage: Store leftover beignets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed fresh!

FAQ Section

1. Can I use different plant-based milks?

• Yes, almond, oat, or soy milk work well for this recipe.

1. What if I can’t find vanilla bean paste?

• You can substitute it with an equal amount of vanilla extract.

1. Is there a substitute for the coconut oil?

• Yes, you can use any neutral oil or vegan butter.

1. How can I tell when the oil is hot enough?

• Use a kitchen thermometer or drop a small piece of dough into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the surface.

1. Can I make these in advance?

• It’s best to make them fresh, but you can prepare the dough and store it in the fridge overnight before frying.

1. What can I do with leftover lavender sugar?

• Use it in tea, sprinkle it on baked goods, or mix it into oatmeal or yogurt.

1. Can I bake these beignets instead of frying?

• Yes, but the texture will differ. Bake at 375°F for about 15 minutes.

1. How do I store leftover beignets?

• Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

1. Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?

• Yes, but use fresh sparingly, as it can be stronger in flavor.

1. What can I serve these with?
   • They pair well with coffee, tea, or a fruit compote.

Conclusion

Vegan Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets are a delightful twist on a classic treat, offering a unique flavor profile that will impress your family and friends. Their light, airy texture and aromatic notes of lavender and vanilla make them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, these beignets are sure to bring joy to the table. Give this recipe a try, and savor the magic of these beautiful pastries!

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