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.

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.

---

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

---

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

---

Equipment

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

---

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!

---

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

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

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.