Name: How To Make Haitian Beignets Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Haitian
Ingredients: 3 mashed bananas; 1 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour; ½ tsp baking soda; ¼ tsp granulated sugar, plus more for dusting; 2 tsp vanilla extract; ½ tsp ground nutmeg; 1 can Carnation Milk (12 fl. oz.) or water; 1 egg; ½ tsp almond extract; ¼ tsp kosher salt; ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional); 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

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If you’ve ever wondered about sinking your teeth into a truly delightful Caribbean treat, you’re in for a real treat today. Let me walk you through the magic of How To Make Haitian Beignets, a sweet and spicy fried dough dessert bursting with flavor and perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. These beignets are uniquely Haitian, thanks to the exciting blend of bananas, warm spices, and the subtle kiss of vanilla and almond extracts that come together in a light, fluffy bite. Once you master this recipe, the irresistible aroma and tender texture will have you coming back for more, sharing this culinary treasure with everyone you love.

How To Make Haitian Beignets Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to these irresistible Haitian beignets lies in a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that harmonize beautifully. Each item plays its role in creating the perfect texture, moisture, and flavor layers you’ll savor with every bite.

3 Mashed Bananas: They add natural sweetness and a moist texture that makes these beignets uniquely Haitian and wonderfully tender.
1 ⅓ Cup All-Purpose Flour: This is the base that gives the beignets their light and fluffy structure.
½ Tsp. Baking Soda: Helps the batter rise and gives an airy texture.
¼ Tsp. Granulated Sugar plus more for dusting: A touch of sweetness inside and a delicate finish on top.
2 Tsp. Vanilla Extract: Brings warmth and enhances the depth of flavor.
½ Tsp. Ground Nutmeg: Adds a signature Caribbean spice note that’s subtle but essential.
1 Can Carnation Milk (12 Fl. Oz.) or Water: Carnation milk offers richness, but water works perfectly if you want a lighter version.
1 Egg: Binds the ingredients and contributes to a golden color during frying.
½ Tsp. Almond Extract: Lends a lovely nutty aroma that elevates the entire flavor profile.
¼ Tsp. Kosher Salt: Balances the sweetness and spices.
½ Tsp. Ground Cinnamon (Optional): Offers an extra warming note that pairs beautifully with nutmeg and banana.

How to Make How To Make Haitian Beignets

Step 1: Prepare the Banana Batter

Start by mashing the bananas until they are smooth and creamy; you can use a fork or a food processor depending on your mood and available tools. This is the heart of your batter, bringing that delightful sweetness and moisture Haitian beignets are known for.

Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients

To your mashed bananas, add the granulated sugar, Carnation milk or water, egg, kosher salt, baking soda, ground nutmeg, vanilla extract, almond extract, and cinnamon if you’re using it. Mix everything thoroughly so the spices and extracts are well-distributed, crafting a symphony of flavors in your batter.

Step 3: Incorporate the Flour

Gently fold in the all-purpose flour into your wet mixture. This step is crucial—mix just enough to blend everything without overworking the batter, which keeps the beignets light and fluffy rather than dense.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

Pour about 2 cups of oil into a large frying pan and heat it to around 325°F to 350°F. Keeping the oil just right ensures your beignets cook evenly with that perfect golden crust without soaking up too much oil.

Step 5: Fry the Beignets

Using an ice cream scoop or spoon, carefully drop dollops of batter into the hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each side for about 2 minutes until beautifully golden brown, then transfer the beignets to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let your Haitian beignets cool slightly before sprinkling generously with granulated sugar. This final touch makes each bite a perfect harmony of crispy edges and velvety softness inside.

How to Serve How To Make Haitian Beignets

Garnishes

The simplest way to elevate your Haitian beignets is with a light dusting of granulated or powdered sugar. If you want to get fancy, try a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or even a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to add a little extra sweetness with each bite.

Side Dishes

These beignets pair wonderfully with fresh tropical fruits like mango slices or pineapple chunks that bring a refreshing balance. For a cozy touch, serve alongside a warm cup of Haitian coffee or spiced tea to complement their warmth and spice.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider stacking the beignets on a pretty plate with a sprinkle of toasted coconut or chopped nuts for texture contrast. You could also serve them with small bowls of dipping sauces such as chocolate, caramel, or a zesty fruit compote to let guests customize their treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Haitian beignets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep them from getting soggy, separate layers with parchment paper. They are best enjoyed fresh but still delicious later!

Freezing

If you want to keep Haitian beignets on hand longer, freeze them individually on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for up to a month and thaw quickly when you’re ready for a sweet treat.

Reheating

To bring back the crispy exterior and warm softness inside, reheat beignets in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that perfect fried texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of Carnation milk?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk if you don’t have Carnation milk, though the beignets might be slightly less rich. Water works well too for a lighter texture.

What if I don’t have almond extract?

The almond extract adds a lovely nutty flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can simply omit it or add a little more vanilla extract as a substitute.

Can these beignets be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking, but be sure it has xanthan gum or a similar binder for best texture results.

Is it necessary to fry at 325 to 350 degrees Fahrenheit?

Yes, maintaining this temperature range is important to cook the beignets evenly without burning them or making them greasy. Too cool, and they soak up oil; too hot, and they brown too quickly on the outside.

How long do Haitian beignets last once made?

They are best eaten within a day of frying for optimal taste and texture, but stored properly, leftovers remain enjoyable for up to two days at room temperature.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to make Haitian beignets is like adding a warm, delicious chapter to your cooking story. They bring a touch of Caribbean sunshine to your kitchen and a comforting sweetness that feels like a heartfelt hug. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe, share it with friends, and create happy memories around these delightful treats.

How To Make Haitian Beignets Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 8 reviews

Author: Rafael
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Approximately 12–15 beignets 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Haitian Beignets recipe features a delightful blend of ripe bananas, warm spices, and fragrant extracts to create soft, fluffy fried dough balls dusted with sugar. Perfect as a sweet breakfast treat or a satisfying snack, these beignets bring a touch of Caribbean flavor to your kitchen with simple ingredients and easy steps.

Instructions

Prepare the Batter: Mash the bananas thoroughly using a fork or food processor until smooth. Add sugar, Carnation milk or water, the egg, kosher salt, baking soda, nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix all ingredients well until fully combined.
Incorporate Flour: Gradually fold in the all-purpose flour to the wet mixture, stirring gently until you achieve a smooth, thick batter with no lumps.
Heat the Oil: In a large frying pan, pour 2 cups of vegetable oil. Heat the oil to a temperature between 325°F and 350°F, using a thermometer to maintain consistent heat for optimal frying.
Fry the Beignets: Using an ice cream scoop or spoon, carefully drop portions of the batter into the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each beignet for about 2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Drain and Cool: Remove the beignets from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Allow them to cool slightly.
Serve: Dust the beignets generously with granulated sugar and serve warm for the best taste.

Notes

Maintain the frying oil temperature between 325°F and 350°F to ensure even cooking and prevent greasiness.
Using ripe bananas is crucial for natural sweetness and flavor.
If Carnation milk is not available, water can be used as a substitute, but the beignets may be less rich.
Dust with powdered sugar as an alternative for a finer finish.
Be cautious when frying and keep children away from hot oil.
These beignets are best served fresh and warm for optimal texture and flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Snack, Breakfast
Method: Frying
Cuisine: Haitian, Caribbean