Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets (Vegan)

Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets (Vegan)

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Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets are a delightful treat with a unique twist. This recipe makes a vegan-friendly version that delivers all the sweet, fluffy goodness of traditional beignets while being lighter and healthier.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

This recipe for Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets is not just delicious; it’s also a healthier alternative to classic pastries. Using vegan ingredients allows you to enjoy these fluffy delights without the guilt. Plus, they can be a great option if you’re looking for a lighter treat or meal prep idea. These beignets can fit perfectly into a balanced diet plan, making them a fantastic choice for those focused on weight loss or maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

HOW TO MAKE Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets

Creating these delightful treats may seem intricate, but it’s quite simple. You’ll be surprised at how easy it is to make a deliciously fluffy and flavorful batch of beignets with just a few vegan-friendly ingredients.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

• Stand mixer
• Medium bowl
• Frying pan
• Pastry bag
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 tablespoon dried lavender flowers
• Scrapings from 1 large vanilla bean
• ½ cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond)
• 4 cup powdered sugar
• ¼ cup unsweetened cashew yogurt
• ¼ cup vegan butter, softened
• ¼ cup coconut cream
• ½ cup prepared lavender icing
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• ⅓ cup sugar
• 1 ½ cups unsweetened plant-based milk (lukewarm, almond)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Make the icing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the icing ingredients until smooth. Set aside.

2. Prepare the dough: In a stand mixer, combine the unsweetened cashew yogurt and softened vegan butter. Beat until the mixture is creamy and fluffy. Add the coconut cream and ½ cup of prepared lavender icing, mixing until combined. Refrigerate the mixture while you prepare the dough.

3. Activate the yeast: In a bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in lukewarm almond milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until bubbly.

4. Mix the dough: Stir in the sugar and ½ teaspoon salt into the yeast mixture. Gradually add the all-purpose flour until a smooth dough forms.

5. Let it rise: Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it up, and let it rise in a warm place for about 2 hours. For a quicker option, you can refrigerate the dough overnight.

6. Shape the beignets: Once risen, divide the dough. Roll out one-half into a 10×10 square and cut it into 16 equal squares. Let them rise again for another 30 to 45 minutes.

7. Fry the beignets: Heat oil in a pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the squares until they’re golden brown, which should take around 30 seconds per side. After frying, remove them and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

8. Fill the beignets: Using a pastry bag, fill the fried dough squares with lavender cream and top with about 1 tablespoon of icing. Serve immediately.

HOW TO SERVE Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets

These beignets are best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer! A great way to serve them is with a light dusting of additional powdered sugar and a side of fresh fruit. Fresh berries or a vibrant citrus salad can add a nice balance of flavors and nutrients. Opting for portion control can also help ensure they fit into your balanced diet seamlessly.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets

If you have extra beignets, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, these beignets freeze well. Be sure to wrap each beignet in parchment paper and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the air fryer for a quick and easy treat.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

To make your meal even more balanced, consider serving your Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets with a side of unsweetened yogurt or a nut-based spread for a bit of extra healthy fat. A handful of nuts can also enhance the protein and fiber content, making your meal more satisfying.

VARIATIONS

• Healthier Version: To create a healthier version, you can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. You can also use a sugar substitute for the icing to reduce the overall sugar content.

• High-Protein or Low-Carb Version: For a higher protein option, consider adding some protein powder into the dough mixture. Alternatively, work with almond flour as it is lower in carbs while providing more protein and fiber.

• Air Fryer Version: You can air fry the beignets for a healthier, lower-calorie cooking option. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook the beignets in batches for about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden brown.

FAQs

Q1: Can I substitute the plant-based milk?
Yes, you can use any type of plant-based milk, such as soy or oat milk, based on your preference and dietary needs.

Q2: Are these beignets suitable for diabetics?
While this recipe is a lighter option, it still contains sugar. If you’re looking for a diabetic-friendly version, consider using a sugar substitute for the icing and reducing the amount of sugar in the dough.

Q3: How should I store leftover beignets?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or freeze them for longer storage.

Q4: How can I make these beignets gluten-free?
You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these beignets safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets

For an efficient meal prep solution, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. Follow the instructions until the first rise, then refrigerate overnight. When you are ready to fry, let the dough come to room temperature and proceed with the rolling and frying instructions. This make-ahead tip can save you time on busy mornings or special occasions while ensuring you enjoy these delicious vegan treats!

In summary, Lavender Vanilla Bean French Beignets are not only a tasty indulgence but also a delightful vegan option that can fit into many lifestyles, including healthy and weight-loss-focused diets. They are easy to make, versatile in serving suggestions, and suitable for meal prep. Enjoy the delicious experience of making and sharing these special treats!

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