Canned biscuit beignets give you a quick, easy way to enjoy a New Orleans-inspired treat. With just four ingredients, these homemade beignets come together fast and are perfect for beginners.
You don’t need to be a pastry chef to make delicious fried treats at home. One of the easiest shortcuts is using canned biscuits to make beignets—light, pillowy, and ready in minutes.
What are beignets?
Beignets are a close relative of the donut: deep-fried pastries traditionally made from yeast dough. There are many variations, but the classic version is generously dusted with powdered sugar and served warm.
Ingredients
Because we use canned biscuits, you won’t need to make yeast dough from scratch. You only need a few simple ingredients:
- Canned biscuits – A 16.3-ounce can of Pillsbury Grands (8 count) works well.
- Oil – A neutral, high-heat oil for frying.
- Powdered sugar – For dusting the warm beignets.
- Honey – Optional, for drizzling or dipping.
How to Make
To transform canned biscuits into light, fluffy beignets, start by filling a heavy-bottomed pot with about 2 inches of oil. Heat over medium until the oil reaches 350°F (175°C).
While the oil heats, cut each biscuit into four even pieces. Pinch the pieces together and roll them into small spheres for even frying.
Working in batches so the oil temperature stays steady, gently lower the dough balls into the hot oil. Fry until they turn golden brown on all sides, about a few minutes per batch depending on size.
Use a skimmer to remove the beignets and transfer them to a paper towel-lined tray to drain excess oil. Dust the beignets with powdered sugar immediately so it adheres while they’re still warm.
Repeat until all the dough is used. Serve warm with honey on the side if you like.
Enjoy!
Biscuit Beignets in the Air Fryer
If you prefer not to deep fry, the air fryer is a great alternative. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick spray and place the shaped dough balls in the basket without touching. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 6 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
Storing Leftovers
Beignets are best fresh and warm, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat briefly in the oven or air fryer to refresh their texture before serving.
Tips and Tricks
- Use a deep-fry thermometer so you can keep the oil at the proper temperature (around 350°F). Consistent heat gives even browning and a light interior.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; frying too many at once drops the oil temperature and leads to greasy beignets.
- Dust with powdered sugar while the beignets are still warm so the sugar sticks nicely.
Other Canned Biscuit Upgrades
Canned biscuit beignets transform simple biscuit dough into a decadent dessert or snack. If you enjoy shortcuts like this, experiment with other quick upgrades to canned biscuits to create new sweet or savory treats.
Make a batch, share with friends, and enjoy!
Canned Biscuit Beignets
Ingredients
- 1 16.3 oz can Pillsbury Grands biscuits 8 count
- Oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Honey for serving, optional
Instructions
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Preheat 2” of oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
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Cut each biscuit into 4 even pieces, pinch together, and roll into spheres.
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Working in batches, gently lower the dough balls into the hot oil and fry until golden brown.
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Use a skimmer to remove the beignets and place them on paper towels to drain.
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Sprinkle with powdered sugar immediately while still warm.
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Serve with honey if desired.
Notes
- Use a deep-fry thermometer to keep oil at the correct temperature.
- Do not overcrowd the pan so the beignets fry evenly.
- Dust with powdered sugar while the beignets are warm so it sticks better.