Disneyland Beignets with Powdered Sugar
There’s a certain kind of magic that happens when you’re walking through New Orleans Square at Disneyland and catch the scent of fresh beignets drifting through the air. For many families, it’s become a tradition and no trip to the park is complete without the iconic mickey shaped beignets! They’re soft, sweet, and just the right amount of indulgent for a day full of tired feet!
We haven’t made it to New Orleans yet (it’s on the list!), but these homemade beignets bring a little piece of that Disneyland joy into our kitchen. They’re surprisingly easy to make and perfect for a weekend treat, a special brunch, or just because.
Why We Love These Beignets
- Disneyland nostalgia in every bite
- Fluffy and golden with a crisp edge and soft center
- Fun to make as a family (particularly the shaping and sugar-shaking part!)
Bring the Magic Home
Disney Beignets are even more fun when you shape them yourself! Mickey-shaped cookie cutters are a family favorite, but feel free to get creative with other simple Disney inspired outlines. Just keep in mind- the dough puffs up while frying, so stick to bold shapes that are easy to recognize.
Tips for Beignet Success
- Let the yeast bloom: Don’t rush the first step. That foamy, fragrant yeast mixture is the key to fluffy beignets.
- Use a thermometer: Keep your oil at a steady 350°F for even frying.
- Shake while warm: Toss the beignets in powdered sugar while they’re still warm so it sticks beautifully.
Disneyland Beignets with Powdered Sugar
Golden, pillowy beignets dusted with a generous snowfall of powdered sugar. These Disneyland beignets bring theme park magic to your kitchen!
- Prep Time: 2 hours, 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 1 dozen
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Fry
- Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients
- ½ cup lukewarm water
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- Neutral oil (like vegetable, or canola), for frying
- Powdered sugar, for coating
Instructions
1. Activate the yeast
In a large mixing bowl, combine the lukewarm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 10 minutes, until the mixture becomes foamy and fragrant.
2. Make the dough
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten egg, milk, and salt. Pour this into the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
Add half of the flour and mix until mostly incorporated. Then add the softened butter and the remaining flour. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5–7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
3. Let it rise
Lightly grease a large bowl with nonstick spray or a bit of oil. Place the dough inside, cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for at least 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
4. Prepare for frying
Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Line a plate with paper towels and set aside.
Pour about 1–2 cups of powdered sugar into a paper bag. This will be your beignet dusting station. You can also roll in a large bowl.
5. Shape the beignets
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Cut into 4-inch squares using a sharp knife or pizza cutter. You may also use a cookie cutter if you want to make fun shapes.
6. Fry until golden
Carefully drop a few dough squares at a time into the hot oil. Fry, flipping occasionally, until puffed and golden brown—about 1–2 minutes per side.
Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the beignets to the paper towel-lined plate to drain briefly.
7. Coat in sugar
While still warm, toss the beignets into the bag of powdered sugar. Close the bag and shake gently until each beignet is generously coated. You could also roll them around in a bowl of powdered sugar, or dust with a mesh sifter.
Notes
These beignets are best enjoyed fresh!