A Taste of the Bayou: Making Princes Tiana’s Beignets from “The Princess and The Frog”

Beignets New Orleans
Photo by Keesha's Kitchen on Unsplash

Join us as we embark on a magical culinary journey inspired by the enchanting world of Disney’s “The Princess and the Frog.” We’re about to recreate a classic New Orleans treat, Princess Tiana’s Beignets. These fluffy, powdered sugar-dusted delights are sure to transport you straight to the heart of the bayou.

Ingredients:

  • 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast
  • 1/2 cup of warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
  • 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 cup of heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup of whole milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 4 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, softened
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1 cup of powdered sugar

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it’s foamy. This is the yeast coming to life, and it’s essential for the beignets’ fluffiness.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix together the heavy cream, whole milk, and eggs. Add the yeast mixture to this bowl and give it a good stir.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the wet mixture, followed by the softened butter. Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.
  5. Once your dough has risen to perfection, roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut it into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference.
  6. Heat your vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the beignet pieces into the hot oil and fry until they turn golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  7. As soon as your beignets are out of the fryer and still warm, generously dust them with powdered sugar. This is where the magic happens—the sugar will create a sweet, snowy coating that’ll make your taste buds dance!