If you are craving a sweet treat that feels both comforting and delightfully unique, then this Vegan Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets Recipe is going to become your new obsession. These golden, pillowy beignets carry the gentle floral fragrance of lavender perfectly balanced with warm vanilla bean, creating an irresistible combo that melts in your mouth. Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they’re vegan, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion where you want to impress your guests or simply treat yourself with something special. Let me walk you through this lovely recipe so you can bring a little magic to your kitchen today!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is a breeze because each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture and flavor that defines these beignets. From the creamy plant-based milk to the fragrant lavender and vanilla bean, every item is thoughtfully chosen for the best results.
- 1 cup warm almond or oat milk: Adds moisture and richness while keeping the recipe vegan-friendly.
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast: Essential for making the beignets light and fluffy by helping the dough rise.
- 2 tbsp sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds just the right hint of sweetness.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the sweetness.
- 1 tsp vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract): Introduces a beautiful depth of natural vanilla flavor.
- 1 tsp dried culinary lavender, ground: Infuses a delicate floral note that makes these beignets truly special.
- 2 1/2 – 3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, providing structure and chewiness.
- 3 tbsp melted coconut oil or vegan butter: Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Makes the beignets crispy and golden on the outside.
- 1/2 cup sugar (for coating): Sweetens the final touch to the beignets’ crispy exterior.
- 1 tsp dried lavender, ground (for coating): Repeats the lovely lavender accent on each bite.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla bean powder (optional, for coating): Enhances the vanilla flavor in the sugar coating.
How to Make Vegan Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by warming your plant-based milk until it’s comfortably warm but not hot—this helps the yeast come alive. Stir the sugar into the milk, sprinkle the yeast over the top, and give it a gentle stir. Now let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy. This foaming means the yeast is active, which is critical for creating those fluffy beignets that everyone loves.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
To the foamy yeast mixture, add the salt, vanilla bean paste, and ground lavender, followed by melted coconut oil or vegan butter for that beautiful richness. Gradually fold in the flour, about half a cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Knead the dough for around 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Keep an eye on the dough’s consistency—if it feels sticky, add a touch more flour. This step builds the perfect structure for frying.
Step 3: Let Dough Rise
Place your dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel to create a cozy environment. Let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour until it has doubled in size. This rising period is where the magic happens, turning the dough light and airy, which is the hallmark of the best beignets.
Step 4: Roll and Cut
Once your dough has doubled, transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll it out evenly to about 1/4-inch thickness. Using a knife or a cookie cutter, cut the dough into squares or rounds roughly 2 inches in size. This size is perfect for frying and ensures each beignet puffs up beautifully.
Step 5: Fry the Beignets
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower a few beignets into the hot oil at a time, frying them for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until golden brown and wonderfully crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and let excess oil drain on paper towels. This frying step gives the beignets their iconic crispy shell while preserving that pillow-soft interior.
Step 6: Coat with Lavender Sugar
While the beignets are still warm, roll them gently in a mixture of sugar, ground lavender, and vanilla bean powder if using. This final coating not only adds a beautiful shimmer but also enhances the aroma and flavor, tying all those delicate lavender and vanilla notes together perfectly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
These beignets are best enjoyed warm, fresh from the fryer, with a dusting of extra lavender sugar if you like. The contrast between the crispy exterior and the soft, fragrant inside will have you coming back for more. Now, you have mastered the Vegan Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets Recipe—time to savor every bite!
How to Serve Vegan Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these beauties even more, consider sprinkling some finely powdered sugar or extra ground lavender on top shortly before serving. A drizzle of vegan honey or maple syrup also complements the floral-vanilla flavor perfectly. The right garnishes make these beignets feel like a luxurious treat.
Side Dishes
Pair these beignets with a freshly brewed cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or jasmine, to echo the floral notes. A glass of chilled sparkling lemonade or a warm vegan latte also works wonders for balancing the sweetness, making your snack time feel like a charming Parisian café experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider stacking the beignets in a rustic basket lined with a pretty cloth or arranging them on a wooden board sprinkled with lavender buds and a small bowl of dipping jam. For a brunch or dessert spread, serve alongside fresh berries and coconut whipped cream to impress your guests with a feast for both the eyes and palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep their delightful crispness, avoid refrigerating as it tends to dry them out. Simply cover loosely with a clean towel if you prefer a softer texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the beignets in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When wrapped properly, they can last for up to two months. Freezing them fresh preserves their flavor and texture remarkably well.
Reheating
To bring frozen or leftover beignets back to life, warm them gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes. This method revives their crisp exterior without drying out the soft interior. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the beignets soggy.
FAQs
Can I use another type of non-dairy milk?
Absolutely! While almond and oat milk work beautifully here, you can use soy, cashew, or even rice milk. Just ensure it’s warm (not hot) to activate the yeast properly.
Where can I find culinary lavender for this recipe?
Most grocery stores with a baking or herb section carry dried culinary lavender, or you can find it online. Make sure it’s labeled culinary grade to avoid any bitterness or impurities.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
While frying gives the classic crispy exterior, you can bake these at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes until golden. The texture will be slightly different—less crispy but still delicious—making it a lighter version.
Is it necessary to use vanilla bean paste or powder?
Vanilla bean paste and powder add an authentic vanilla flavor and specks for visual appeal, but vanilla extract works fine too. The flavor might be a bit less intense, but your beignets will still be wonderful.
How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature?
A kitchen thermometer is the best tool to monitor oil temperature. If you don’t have one, drop a small bit of dough into the oil—if it bubbles and floats to the surface quickly, the oil is ready. Too hot? The beignets burn; too cool? They absorb too much oil.
Final Thoughts
This Vegan Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets Recipe is an absolute joy to make and even more delightful to eat. It’s a beautiful way to infuse a little elegance into an everyday moment or to impress at your next brunch. I hope you enjoy the process and savor every fragrant, sweet bite. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll want to keep this recipe close for every special occasion and cozy afternoon alike.
Print
Vegan Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Delight in these Vegan Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets, featuring a fragrant blend of dried lavender and vanilla bean in a light, fluffy dough. Fried to golden perfection and coated with a sweet lavender sugar, these beignets make an elegant treat perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 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
For Frying
- Vegetable oil for frying
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 with 2 tablespoons of sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top, gently stir, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Prepare the Dough: Add 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste, 1 teaspoon ground culinary lavender, and 3 tablespoons melted coconut oil or vegan butter to the yeast mixture. Gradually add 2 1/2 to 3 cups of all-purpose flour, about 1/2 cup at a time, stirring to combine until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If too sticky, incorporate a little more flour.
- Let Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Allow it to rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Roll and Cut: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the risen dough to approximately 1/4-inch thickness. Cut the dough into squares or rounds roughly 2 inches in size.
- Fry the Beignets: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop a few dough pieces into the hot oil, frying each side for 1-2 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the beignets and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Coat with Lavender Sugar: In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup sugar with 1 teaspoon ground lavender and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean powder, if using. While the beignets are still warm, roll each one in the lavender sugar mixture until fully coated.
- Serve: Enjoy the vegan lavender vanilla beignets warm, optionally adding an extra dusting of lavender sugar for added sweetness and aroma.
Notes
- Ensure the milk is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
- Ground lavender should be culinary grade to ensure the best flavor and safety.
- Kneading the dough properly is key to achieving a light and fluffy texture.
- Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F to avoid greasy or undercooked beignets.
- Use a slotted spoon for frying to easily drain excess oil.
- This recipe is vegan-friendly, using plant-based milk and fat substitutes.
