Air-Fried Beignets: A Delicious and Healthier Twist on a Classic Treat
Beignets are a delicious New Orleans classic that many people crave, but they can be high in calories and fat. Fortunately, with the help of an air fryer, you can make a healthier version of this beloved treat. In this article, we’ll show you how to make air-fried beignets step-by-step, so you can indulge in this delicious treat without the guilt.
What are Air-Fried Beignets?
Air-fried beignets are a healthier take on traditional beignets that are deep-fried in oil. Instead of deep frying the dough, air-fried beignets are cooked in an air fryer, which circulates hot air around the dough to give it a crispy, golden-brown exterior. This cooking method not only reduces the amount of oil used but also results in a lighter, healthier version of the classic treat.
Ingredients You Will Need
To make air-fried beignets, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1/4 cup of warm water
- 1 tablespoon of active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of evaporated milk
- 1 egg, beaten
- 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted
- Non-stick cooking spray
- Powdered sugar for dusting
How to Make Air-Fried Beignets
Making air-fried beignets is easy and straightforward. Here’s how to do it:
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Add the remaining sugar, salt, evaporated milk, and beaten egg to the bowl. Stir to combine.
- Gradually add the flour to the bowl, stirring until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise for 2 hours.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C).
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut the dough into 2-inch squares.
- Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray.
- Place the squares in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Air fry the beignets for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown on both sides.
- Remove the beignets from the air fryer and place them on a wire rack to cool.
- Dust the beignets with powdered sugar and serve.
Tips for Making the Perfect Air-Fried Beignets
Here are some tips to help you make the perfect air-fried beignets:
- Be sure to let the dough rise for 2 hours to ensure a light and fluffy texture.
- Cut the dough into even squares to ensure that they cook evenly in the air fryer.
- Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the beignets from sticking.
