Beignets with Apple Cinnamon Filling Recipe

These apple cinnamon-filled beignets are a delightful twist on the classic, perfect for a cozy dessert or a special breakfast treat!

Ingredients:

• For the Beignet Dough:
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 7 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
• For the Apple Cinnamon Filling:
  • 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
• For Dusting:
  • Powdered sugar

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beignet Dough:
   • In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
   • Add the sugar, salt, eggs, and evaporated milk to the yeast mixture and mix well.
   • Gradually add 4 cups of flour to the mixture and stir until combined.
   • Add the melted butter and continue adding the remaining flour until a dough forms.
   • Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes.
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
2. Make the Apple Cinnamon Filling:
   • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook until the apples are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for another 2 minutes until the filling thickens. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. Assemble and Fry the Beignets:
   • Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.
   • Cut the dough into squares (about 3×3 inches).
   • Place a spoonful of the apple cinnamon filling in the center of each square.
   • Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal.
   • Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F.
   • Fry the beignets in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and puffed, about 2-3 minutes per side.
   • Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
4. Dust and Serve:
   • Dust the warm beignets generously with powdered sugar.
   • Serve immediately and enjoy the deliciously warm, sweet, and spicy treat.