If you’re a fan of light, fluffy pastries with a tropical twist, you’re going to love these Coconut Puff Beignets. Known in French as beignets soufflés à la noix de coco, these fried delights combine the crispy exterior of a classic beignet with a soft, airy inside infused with rich coconut flavor.
Whether you want a delicious breakfast treat, an afternoon snack with tea or coffee, or a festive dessert for gatherings, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare with everyday ingredients!
Why You’ll Love Coconut Puff Beignets
- Light and fluffy texture: Thanks to the carefully balanced ingredients and resting time, these beignets puff up beautifully during frying.
- Coconut-infused flavor: Soaking the grated coconut in milk infuses the batter, delivering a subtle tropical aroma and taste.
- Sweet, but not overpowering: The combination of sugar, vanilla sugar, and coconut creates a perfect harmony of sweetness.
- Versatile snack: Enjoy them plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or dipped in your favorite sauce.
- Great for sharing: These beignets make a perfect treat for parties or casual family gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 400 g all-purpose flour (about 3 1/4 cups)
- 150 g sugar (around 3/4 cup)
- 6 medium eggs
- 100 g butter (7 tablespoons), softened
- 150 ml unsweetened milk (about 2/3 cup)
- 2 pinches of salt
- 2 packets vanilla sugar (or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract)
- 3/4 packet baking powder (approximately 6 grams or 1 1/2 teaspoons)
- 50 g grated coconut (about 1/2 cup)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or sunflower oil recommended)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Soak the Coconut
Begin by soaking the grated coconut in the unsweetened milk. This step is essential because it allows the coconut to absorb the milk and become tender, which will enhance the flavor and moisture of your beignets.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, sugar, and vanilla sugar. Beat these ingredients until you get a creamy, smooth mixture. This creates the base for a tender batter.
Step 3: Add Eggs One by One
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. This helps incorporate air into the batter, contributing to the puffiness of the beignets.
Step 4: Incorporate Half the Flour
Add half of the flour into the bowl and stir well. The flour gives structure to the batter but adding it gradually helps maintain a smooth consistency.
Step 5: Mix in Coconut and Milk
Pour in the soaked coconut and milk mixture. Stir until everything is well combined and the batter is homogeneous.
Step 6: Add Remaining Flour, Salt, and Baking Powder
Add the rest of the flour, the salt, and the baking powder. Mix carefully to combine all ingredients into a smooth, thick batter.
Step 7: Rest the Batter
Let the batter rest for at least 1 hour. This resting period allows the baking powder to activate fully and the gluten in the flour to relax, helping the beignets puff perfectly when fried.
Step 8: Heat the Oil for Frying
Heat the frying oil in a deep pan or fryer over medium heat. The oil should reach about 175°C (350°F) — hot enough to cook the beignets quickly without absorbing too much oil.
Step 9: Fry the Beignets
Using two spoons or a small ice cream scoop, drop spoonfuls of batter gently into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and puffed up, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Turn them occasionally to cook evenly on all sides.
Step 10: Drain and Serve
Remove the beignets with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar or alongside your favorite dipping sauces.
Tips for Perfect Coconut Puff Beignets
- Consistent oil temperature: Maintaining the right temperature is key to achieving a golden, crispy outside with a light, airy inside. Use a thermometer if you have one.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in small batches so the oil temperature remains stable and the beignets cook evenly.
- Softened butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Rest the batter: Don’t skip the resting step. It makes a noticeable difference in texture and rise.
- Use fresh coconut: Freshly grated coconut will give the best flavor, but dried coconut works well too if soaked properly.
- Optional garnishes: For extra indulgence, dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with honey, or dip in melted chocolate.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy warm with tea or coffee for breakfast or an afternoon treat.
- Serve at parties or family gatherings with a side of fresh fruit or yogurt.
- Pair with homemade jam, caramel sauce, or melted chocolate for a decadent dessert.
- Make it festive by dusting with cinnamon sugar or topping with toasted coconut flakes.
Nutritional Highlights
While beignets are a treat and best enjoyed in moderation, the inclusion of coconut adds healthy fats and fiber. Eggs provide protein, and the recipe uses natural vanilla sugar for flavor instead of artificial additives.
Variations to Try
- Chocolate Coconut Beignets: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the flour for a chocolate twist.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the batter for a fresh, zesty aroma.
- Spiced Beignets: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, comforting flavor profile.
- Savory Option: Omit sugar and vanilla; add herbs and cheese for a savory fritter variation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter the day before and refrigerate it covered. Let it come to room temperature before frying.
What type of oil is best for frying beignets?
Neutral oils with high smoke points like vegetable oil, sunflower oil, or canola oil are best.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
This recipe is traditionally fried for the characteristic puff and texture. Baking may result in denser beignets.
How do I store leftover beignets?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day. Reheat briefly in an oven or toaster oven for crispness.
Final Thoughts: Enjoying Traditional Coconut Puff Beignets at Home
Making beignets soufflés à la noix de coco at home is a rewarding experience. These fluffy, aromatic, and lightly sweet treats will impress your family and friends. They’re perfect for any occasion and bring a little tropical sunshine to your kitchen.
With easy-to-follow steps and common ingredients, you don’t need to be an expert baker to succeed. The secret lies in the resting time and gentle frying, which gives these beignets their signature puff and lightness.
So gather your ingredients, warm up the fryer, and indulge in these coconut puff beignets — a perfect blend of French pastry charm and tropical flavor.
