Ever wanted a taste of New Orleans beignets but had to skip them because of gluten? No more! We’ve made a gluten free beignet recipe that’s just as tasty and indulgent as the real thing, but without the gluten.
These gluten free doughnuts are a dream for anyone who loves New Orleans style beignets. They’re covered in powdered sugar and are great with your favorite cafe breakfast recipes or at a Mardi Gras party. Get ready for the soft, fluffy inside and the crispy outside of these gluten free beignets.
Key Takeaways
- Gluten-free beignet recipe delivers the authentic taste and texture of New Orleans-style beignets without the gluten.
- Easy to prepare, with a quick 15-minute prep time and 10-minute cook time.
- Dough rises in just 1 hour, making this a relatively fast recipe to execute.
- Yields 12 beignets, perfect for sharing or a small gathering.
- Versatile recipe can be adapted for non-dairy diets using coconut milk or other substitutes.
What is a Gluten Free Beignet?
A Quintessential New Orleans Treat
Beignets are a beloved treat in New Orleans. They are square-shaped fried dough pastries. They are a big part of the city’s food culture.
These pastries are made with yeast dough cut into squares. They are fried until they are golden brown and soft inside. Then, they are covered in powdered sugar.
For those on a gluten-free diet, you can still enjoy beignets. Just use gluten-free flour and yeast. The frying method stays the same.
Beignets are big during Mardi Gras in New Orleans. But you can enjoy them all year. They make a great breakfast or dessert.
These gluten-free beignets are perfect for breakfast – and if you’re looking to plan a whole morning spread, check out our other tasty Gluten-Free Vegan Breakfast Recipes. Talk about starting your day with a smile!
Historical Background
Picture this: It’s 1718, and French settlers just landed in Louisiana with their recipes tucked in their pockets. Among these treasures was the magic of beignets. “These aren’t just donuts,” my grandma used to say, “they’re little pillows of happiness that crossed an ocean!”
The story of beignets is as rich as the powdered sugar that covers them. In 1986, Louisiana said, “You know what? These treats are so special, we’re making them our official state donut!” But here’s the kicker – the word “beignet” isn’t even French originally. It comes from a Celtic word “bigne,” which means “to raise.” Talk about a food that rose to fame!
Fun Fact Box:
- 1718: French settlers bring beignets to Louisiana
- 1862: Café du Monde opens its doors
- 1986: Beignets become Louisiana’s official state donut
- 2023: Over 100 gluten-free bakeries in New Orleans now offer beignets
🏆 Café du Monde Stats:
- Serves 500,000+ beignets monthly
- Uses 4,000 pounds of powdered sugar weekly
- Opens 24/7, except Christmas Day
- Has used the same recipe since 1862
Nutritional Information
“Good things come in small packages,” as my mom always says. Each gluten-free beignet is a little bundle of joy, and here’s what’s inside:
| Nutrient | Amount per Beignet |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150-175 |
| Carbs | 18g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Sugar | 6g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Iron | 2% DV |
Health Corner: While traditional beignets are off-limits for the 1 in 133 Americans with celiac disease, our gluten-free version opens the door to this New Orleans tradition for everyone. As they say in the French Quarter, “Let the good times roll – without the gluten!”
| Gluten-Free Beignet Statistics | Details |
|---|---|
| Beignets served at Walt Disney World’s Port Orleans resort | Gluten-free, dairy-free, and egg-free |
| Main flour component in recipe | Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free Pizza Mix |
| Powdered sugar used to coat beignets | 1 pound |
| Beignets yield from recipe | Approximately 24 |
| Dough rising time | 1 hour |
| Optimal frying oil temperature | 365 degrees Fahrenheit |
| Beignets fried at a time | 3-4 |
| Dough rolling thickness | 1/4 inch |
Getting the perfect gluten-free beignet takes care. Pay attention to the frying oil temperature and dough thickness. With some effort, you can make beignets just like New Orleans.
Gluten Free Beignet Recipe
Enjoy the classic New Orleans taste with our gluten free beignet recipe. These light and fluffy pastries are great for anyone on a gluten-free diet. With a few simple ingredients, you can make these beignets at home.
Ingredients for Gluten Free Beignet Recipe
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Gluten-free flour | 1-1/4 cup |
| Active dry yeast | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Warm water (105-110°F) | 1/2 cup |
| Unsweetened almond milk | 1/2 cup |
| Olive oil | 1/4 cup |
| Egg white | 1 |
| Swerve sweetener | 3 tablespoons |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Ground cinnamon | Pinch |
| Canola oil (for frying) | 2 cups |
| Swerve powdered sweetener | 1 cup |
Step-by-step instructions
Start by proofing the yeast. Mix 1/2 cup of warm water (105-110°F) with 1/2 teaspoon of active dry yeast in a bowl. Wait for about 5 minutes until it gets frothy.
In a big bowl, mix 1-1/4 cups of gluten free flour, 3 tablespoons of Swerve sweetener, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and a bit of cinnamon. Make a well in the center. Add the yeast mixture, 1/2 cup of unsweetened almond milk, 1/4 cup of olive oil, and 1 egg white. Mix everything gently until a soft dough forms.
Put the dough on a lightly floured surface and knead for 2 minutes. It should be smooth and elastic. Put the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in the fridge for 8 hours or up to 3 days.
When you’re ready to fry, heat 2 cups of canola oil to 365°F. Roll the dough out to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut it into 2-inch squares.
Fry the beignet squares in the hot oil for 2-3 minutes on each side. They should be golden brown and puffed up. Put them on a paper towel to drain oil.
Finally, dust the warm beignets with 1 cup of Swerve powdered sweetener. Serve them right away for a true New Orleans treat.
This gluten free beignet recipe is simple to make at home. Use a good gluten free flour blend, like Bob’s Red Mill. Proof the yeast, mix it with dry ingredients, eggs, milk, and oil. Let the dough rise overnight in the fridge. Then, roll it out, cut it into squares, and fry until golden brown. Dust with powdered Swerve sweetener for the classic taste.
With some time for rising, these beignets are easy to make for a big crowd. Serve them warm for the best New Orleans flavor.
Recipe Variations
Chocolate Dream Beignets
“Life is like a box of chocolates,” and so can be your beignets! Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to your dry ingredients and stuff with chocolate chips before frying.
Apple Pie Surprise
As American as apple pie, but with a French twist! Mix 1 teaspoon of apple pie spice into your dough and fill with warm apple compote.
Birthday Celebration Style
Who says beignets can’t party? Replace powdered sugar with colored sugar crystals. “A party without cake is just a meeting,” but a party with rainbow beignets? Now that’s a celebration!
Sugar-Free Sweet Treats
For our friends watching their sugar intake:
- Use monk fruit sweetener instead of regular sugar
- Replace powdered sugar with powdered erythritol
- Add vanilla extract for natural sweetness
Want more sweet treats? Our Gluten-Free Fruit Tart Recipe is another crowd-pleaser that’ll make your taste buds dance. And if you’re in the mood for international flavors, try our Norwegian-inspired Gluten-Free Lefse Recipe – it’s like a cozy hug on a plate!
Tips for Perfect Gluten Free Beignets
To make your gluten free beignets light, fluffy, and crisp, follow these tips. Use a gluten free flour blend made for yeast-risen doughs, like Bob’s Red Mill. Avoid all-purpose gluten free flours that don’t work well with yeast.
Let the dough rise slowly in the fridge overnight. This step develops the yeasty flavor and airy texture. Also, fry the beignets at the right oil temperature, about 350°F.
If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks. If it’s too cool, the beignets won’t puff up right. Fry in small batches and use a candy/frying thermometer to check the oil temperature. This ensures perfect results every time.
With these tips for making gluten free beignets, you’ll get delicious results. Mastering gluten free frying techniques is key for that classic fluffy gluten free beignet texture.
Follow these simple tips to make gluten free beignets that are as good as those in New Orleans. Enjoy them warm for the best taste.
Troubleshooting Guide
The Sticky Situation
Is your dough sticking like gum on a hot sidewalk? Add gluten-free flour, one tablespoon at a time. Remember: “Sticky is tricky, but flour is power!”
Temperature Tales
Hot oil is like Goldilocks – it needs to be just right:
- Too cold (below 350°F): Greasy, heavy beignets
- Too hot (above 375°F): Burnt outside, raw inside
- Just right (365°F): Golden, puffy perfection
Kitchen Wisdom: “A watched pot never boils, but an unwatched oil pot boils over!” Keep your eyes on that thermometer!
The Rise and Fall
If your beignets are flatter than a pancake, check these points:
- Yeast freshness (test in warm water – should foam within 5 minutes)
- Room temperature (yeast loves it cozy – around 75°F)
- Dough thickness (aim for 1/4 inch – use two pencils as guides!)
By the Numbers:
- Perfect oil temperature: 365°F
- Ideal dough thickness: 1/4 inch
- Rising time: 1-2 hours at room temp
- Frying time: 90 seconds per side
- Optimal serving time: Within 5 minutes of frying
Remember: “As they say in New Orleans, ‘Laissez les bons temps rouler’ with these gluten-free goodies!” 🎭
Common Questions
Why did my beignets come out dense?
“Rome wasn’t built in a day, and perfect beignets aren’t made on the first try!” Dense beignets usually mean the yeast didn’t have enough time to work its magic. Give it time – good things come to those who wait!
Can I make the dough ahead?
You bet! Like a squirrel saving nuts for winter, you can prepare this dough up to 3 days in advance. Keep it happy in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap.
My dough isn’t rising – what gives?
Think of yeast like a picky teenager – it needs just the right conditions to cooperate. Water should be warm (105-110°F), not hot. As my cooking teacher used to say, “If it’s too hot for your finger, it’s too hot for your yeast!”
Conclusion
There you have it – from French Quarter favorite to your gluten-free kitchen! Just like jazz transformed New Orleans, these gluten free beignet recipe will change your breakfast game. And hey, with over 500,000 beignets sold monthly at Café du Monde alone, it’s clear these powdery treats are here to stay. Whether it’s Mardi Gras or just a regular Tuesday morning, these puffy squares of happiness are waiting to bring a taste of New Orleans to your table. As they say in the Big Easy, “Life is better with beignets!” So grab your rolling pin and let the good times roll – gluten-free style! 🎭✨
I’m Dr. Shivani, a Kolkata-based nutritionist since 2015. After 10 years of igniting a love for healthy eating in young minds as a High School nutritionist teacher, I now help individuals unlock their full potential through personalized diet plans. My passion for writing and sharing nutrition knowledge (through blogs and observations) keeps my practice fresh and fuels my love for the field!
