Ingredients
Dough
- 1 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 3/4 cup warm apple cider
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 1/2 – 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon + 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon, divided
Filling
- 1 1/2 cups Nutella (about 24 tablespoons)
For Frying & Finishing
- Canola oil for deep-frying
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the active dry yeast with warm apple cider and brown sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, signaling the yeast is active.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, buttermilk, melted unsalted butter, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract. Add the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, salt, and 1 tablespoon cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Add more flour if needed, up to 4 cups, to reach a workable dough consistency that is slightly sticky but manageable.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Prepare Nutella Filling: While the dough is rising, portion the Nutella into small spoonfuls or use a piping bag for easier stuffing later on.
- Shape the Beignets: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Using a round cutter or glass, cut the dough into circles about 3 inches in diameter.
- Stuff the Beignets: Place a small spoonful of Nutella in the center of half the dough circles. Sprinkle a pinch of the remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon over the Nutella. Top each with another dough circle and pinch the edges tightly to seal, ensuring the Nutella won’t leak during frying.
- Heat Oil: In a deep pot or deep fryer, heat canola oil to 350°F (175°C). Make sure there is enough oil to allow beignets to float and cook evenly.
- Fry the Beignets: Carefully add the stuffed beignets to the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry each side for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and puffed. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on paper towels.
- Dust and Serve: While still warm, dust the beignets generously with powdered sugar. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the oil temperature stays consistent at 350°F to avoid greasy or undercooked beignets.
- Do not overfill the beignets with Nutella as it can cause leakage during frying.
- Leftover beignets can be reheated briefly in an oven or air fryer for best texture.
- For a dairy-free variation, substitute buttermilk with almond or oat milk mixed with lemon juice and use dairy-free butter alternatives.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American