Vegan Air Fryer Beignet Recipe: A Delicious, Healthy Twist

Beignets, the soft, fluffy, and powdered-sugar-coated treats, are a hallmark of New Orleans cuisine. Traditionally deep-fried, they are not only calorie-dense but can also feel heavy. If you’re vegan and health-conscious, this recipe for vegan air fryer beignets is a game-changer. It brings the magic of beignets into your kitchen while using plant-based ingredients and cutting down on oil. These beignets are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and absolutely delicious—all while being much lighter than the original.

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In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make perfect vegan air fryer beignets, including preparation steps, nutrition information, and helpful tips.

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Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: French, New Orleans-inspired
• Course: Dessert, Snack
• Servings: 10 beignets
• Calories: Approximately 150 calories per beignet
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Active Time: 10 minutes
• Resting Time: 1 hour (for dough rising)
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

 

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Ingredients

• Dry Ingredients:
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
• Wet Ingredients:
  • ¾ cup unsweetened plant-based milk (e.g., almond, soy, or oat)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons vegan butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional for Topping:
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)
  • Vegan chocolate or fruit sauce for dipping

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Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Pastry cutter or knife
• Baking parchment paper
• Cooking spray (optional for greasing)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Wet Mixture

1. In a small bowl, mix the plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes to curdle, forming vegan buttermilk.
2. Stir in melted vegan butter and vanilla extract.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually pour in the wet mixture while stirring. Mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Knead and Rest the Dough

1. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rest for 1 hour in a warm place until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Beignets

1. Once the dough has risen, roll it out to about ¼-inch thickness on a floured surface.
2. Cut the dough into 2×2-inch squares using a knife or pastry cutter.

Step 5: Air Fry the Beignets

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
3. Arrange the beignet squares in the basket, leaving some space between them.
4. Air fry for 7-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. While still warm, dust the beignets generously with powdered sugar.
2. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy as is!

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 90mg

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Tips for Perfect Vegan Air Fryer Beignets

1. Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the dough to rise is essential for creating fluffy beignets.
2. Avoid Overcrowding the Air Fryer: Beignets need space to cook evenly, so air fry in batches if necessary.
3. Use Parchment Paper: This helps prevent the dough from sticking to the basket.
4. Adjust Sweetness to Taste: You can increase or decrease the sugar in the dough or adjust the amount of powdered sugar topping.

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Why Air Fry Beignets?

• Healthier: Air frying uses significantly less oil compared to deep frying, reducing fat and calories.
• Less Messy: No need for a vat of hot oil or post-frying cleanup.
• Quick and Convenient: Air fryers cook faster and more evenly, making the process easier and more efficient.

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Make It Your Own

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your preferences. Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra flavor, or drizzle the finished beignets with vegan caramel for a decadent touch.

This vegan air fryer beignet recipe is perfect for brunch, dessert, or as a snack to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re reminiscing about a trip to New Orleans or simply craving something indulgent, these guilt-free beignets are sure to impress.