Description
Haitian Beignets are delightful banana fritters that combine ripe bananas with warm spices and a light batter, fried to golden perfection. This traditional Haitian dessert offers a sweet, aromatic treat perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert, finished with a dusting of powdered sugar or your favorite topping.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
For Frying and Serving
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Banana Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the mashed ripe bananas, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder to ensure an even distribution of the leavening agent.
- Form the Batter: Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the banana mixture, stirring continuously until a thick, smooth batter forms without lumps.
- Heat the Oil: Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or saucepan and heat it to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Maintaining the correct temperature is key for even cooking and achieving the perfect golden crust.
- Fry the Beignets: Carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan to allow for proper frying. Fry each batch for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until the beignets are golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain the Beignets: Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried beignets from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve Warm: Serve the beignets warm, optionally dusted with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. They can also be enjoyed with honey or fruit preserves for added flavor.
Notes
- Traditionally, Haitian beignets are enjoyed plain, but pairing them with honey or fruit preserves adds a wonderful variation.
- Maintain a steady oil temperature of 350°F to ensure even frying and to prevent greasy or undercooked beignets.
- Do not overcrowd the pan while frying to allow the beignets enough space to cook evenly and develop a crispy crust.
- Use ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and flavor in the batter.
