Before indulging in the powdered sugar-dusted delights at Café du Monde, I had the pleasure of exploring the rich tapestry of New Orleans’ cultural and historical landmarks. My journey began at the vibrant French Market, where the air buzzes with the energy of vendors selling everything from artisan crafts to local spices. Just a short walk from the Mississippi River, the market’s lively atmosphere set the perfect tone for a day of exploration.
Next, I wandered through the storied streets of the French Quarter, each turn offering a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved architecture and the faint sounds of jazz wafting through the air. A visit to the iconic St. Louis Cathedral provided a moment of tranquility amidst the buzz of the city, its stunning interiors offering a quiet space for reflection.
With these rich experiences fresh in my mind, stepping into Café du Monde felt like the culmination of my New Orleans adventure. The café, with its open-air ambiance and the inviting aroma of coffee and beignets, felt like a sanctuary where the city’s culinary heritage could be celebrated. Each bite of the fluffy beignets, coupled with sips of bold chicory coffee, seemed to encapsulate the spirit of New Orleans—a city of vibrant life, resilience, and a deep-rooted love for good food and good company.
It sounds like you have a deep appreciation for the culinary delights of New Orleans, especially the iconic Café du Monde. Recreating the magic of Café du Monde’s beignets and chicory coffee at home allows you to savor the flavors and essence of this vibrant city wherever you are. The process of making beignets and brewing chicory coffee can transport you back to the bustling streets of New Orleans, evoking memories of your visit to Café du Monde. Enjoying these homemade treats with a cup of chicory coffee can truly capture the essence of a New Orleans morning, filled with warmth, sweetness, and a touch of Cajun charm.
Inspired Recipe: Easy Homemade Beignets
This Beignets Recipe may be life-changing. I’m still on a powdered sugar high from the experience. Spent much time in Texas, the box mix of Cafe du Monde beignets was a common sight. However, it wasn’t until my honeymoon that I tasted my first real authentic beignet from Cafe du Monde in New Orleans. The delight upon the first bite of these deep-fried, generously sugared treats was unforgettable.
What is a Beignet?
A beignet is a yeast-risen dough, rolled out, cut into squares, and deep-fried until golden brown. The dough is special because it only needs one rise and contains shortening, which helps create a pocket of air in the center of the beignet.
Easy Beignet Recipe Tips:
- Yeast: Active dry yeast is used because it can be ‘proofed’ to ensure the dough will rise.
- Shortening: Creates the pocket of air in the center of the beignet; substituting it with butter is not recommended.
- Sugar: Needed for the dough and to help activate the yeast.
- Oil for Frying: Use a neutral oil like canola, vegetable, or grapeseed oil.
Easy Homemade Beignets
Dive into the delightful world of making your own beignets with this easy recipe that promises to bring a piece of New Orleans right to your kitchen. Perfect for Sunday brunches or a sweet treat to enjoy with your coffee, this recipe is designed for simplicity and deliciousness.
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Ingredients
- Yeast Activation Ingredients
3 tbsp warm water heated to 105°F
¾ tsp active dry yeast
1 ½ tbsp granulated sugar plus a pinch for activating the yeast
- Dough Preparation Ingredients
4 ½ tbsp whole milk
1 ½ large egg whites
4 ½ tbsp boiling water
1 7/8 cups all-purpose flour extra for dusting
salt a pinch
- Frying Ingredients
3 cups neutral oil like canola, for frying
1 ½ cups powdered sugar for serving
- Alternative Ingredients
Almond milk can replace whole milk for a dairy-free option.
Gluten-free flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour for those with gluten sensitivities.
Directions
- Yeast Activation – Mix yeast and a pinch of sugar in 3 tablespoons of warm water. Ensure the mixture is frothy after about 5-10 minutes, indicating that the yeast is active.
- Prepare Wet Mixture – Combine 1 ½ tablespoons of sugar, 4 ½ tablespoons of milk, and 1 ½ egg whites in a bowl. Add 4 ½ tablespoons of boiling water, ensuring the mixture reaches a yeast-friendly temperature of about 105-110°F.
- Dough Preparation – In a large bowl, sift 1 7/8 cups of flour with a pinch of salt. Gradually stir in the wet mixture until a dough forms. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
- Rolling and Cutting – On a floured surface, roll the dough to ¼ inch thickness. Cut into 2-inch squares using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
- Frying Beignets – Heat 3 cups of neutral oil to 360°F in a deep fryer or large pot. Fry the dough squares in batches, turning once, until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- Serving – Toss the warm beignets in 1 ½ cups of powdered sugar. Serve immediately for best taste.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
- deep fryer
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Potassium: 60mg
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 25g
- Protein: 6g
- Vitamin A: 0IU
- Vitamin C: 0mg
- Calcium: 3mg
- Iron: 12mg
