If you have a soft spot for warm, fluffy dough treats with a buzz of bold flavor, then you will adore these Glazed Coffee Beignets. Imagine pillowy squares fried to golden perfection, kissed by a sweet and luscious coffee-infused glaze that adds a morning pick-me-up to a classic New Orleans treat. These beignets marry the deep, rich taste of dark coffee with a tender texture and a shimmer of sugary glaze, creating an irresistible bite that’s perfect anytime you crave a little indulgence with a caffeinated twist.

Glazed Coffee Beignets Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This deceptively simple list of ingredients combines pantry basics and flavorful staples that each bring something irreplaceable to the table. From the aromatic dark coffee that infuses the dough to the silky glaze that rounds out every piece, every element ensures your finished beignets are as delightful as can be.

Ground dark coffee: Provides the rich coffee flavor that defines these beignets and starts the recipe with aromatic depth.
Cold water: Used to brew the coffee, giving it the proper strength and clarity.
Granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast for rising and balances the bitterness of the coffee.
Active dry yeast: The essential leavening agent that gives the dough its fluffy texture.
All-purpose flour: The structural base of the dough, lending it its tender yet sturdy body.
Warm half and half: Adds richness and moisture for a soft crumb and luscious mouthfeel.
Large eggs: Bind the dough ingredients together and enrich the flavor and color.
Butter: Melted to impart a subtle richness and enhance dough tenderness.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the delicious flavors.
Vegetable oil: Used for frying, it ensures a crispy, golden exterior without overpowering flavors.
Confectioners’ sugar: The base of the glaze that provides a sweet, smooth finish.
Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and complexity to the glaze’s flavor.

How to Make Glazed Coffee Beignets

Step 1: Brew and Prepare Your Coffee Base

Start by brewing a bold batch of coffee using 3/4 cup of ground dark coffee with 3 cups of water. This coffee will deeply flavor the dough and the glaze. Once brewed, set aside 1/2 cup for the glaze—this little coffee reserve will add an aromatic hint to your sugary coating.

Step 2: Activate Your Yeast

In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the sugar and yeast, then gradually stir in 1 ½ cups of your warm coffee (between 100-110°F) to activate the yeast. Let this mixture rest for about 10 minutes until it becomes foamy, signaling that it’s alive and ready to work its magic on your dough.

Step 3: Mix the Dough

With your mixer on low speed, add half of the flour, the half and half, beaten eggs, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Once these are fully incorporated, gradually add the remaining flour, about 1/2 cup at a time, until the dough pulls away from the bowl and is no longer sticky. Take the dough out and knead it gently by hand for about 2 minutes to perfect its smooth, soft texture, adding flour if necessary.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Prepare a large bowl with nonstick cooking spray, place your dough inside, and cover it with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Set the bowl in a warm spot for one hour. The dough will become puffy—an indication it’s ready for frying—even though it does not have to double in size, ensuring a light, tender final product.

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze

While the dough is rising, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, the reserved 1/2 cup of coffee, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl. Cover the glaze with plastic wrap to keep it fresh until your beignets come out of the oil and are ready for dipping.

Step 6: Fry the Beignets

Preheat your deep fryer to 350°F. On a floured surface, roll out the dough gently to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a pizza cutter to slice the dough into 1 1/2-inch squares. Drop about four squares at a time into the hot oil, frying each side for approximately one minute until golden and puffy. Remove with a slotted tool and drain on wire racks placed over paper towels.

Step 7: Glaze and Finish

While still warm, dip each beignet into the coffee glaze, allowing it to soak up the sweet coating before setting them back onto wire racks to drain away any excess. This step is crucial for that signature glaze that makes these beignets extra special.

How to Serve Glazed Coffee Beignets

Garnishes

These Glazed Coffee Beignets are fabulous on their own, but a sprinkle of finely ground espresso powder or a light dusting of cinnamon can elevate their aroma and flavor. For a touch of luxury, a dusting of cocoa powder or a few chocolate shavings add a decadent contrast to the coffee glaze. Fresh mint leaves bring a pop of color and a refreshing bite alongside the warmth.

Side Dishes

Pair your beignets with a steaming cup of black coffee or your favorite espresso drink to echo those deep coffee notes. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream makes an indulgent companion, especially if you are serving these for dessert. Fresh fruit, particularly berries, can lighten the plate and offer natural sweetness to balance the rich flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a brunch party or special occasion, stack the beignets in a pyramid shape on a decorative plate and drizzle extra glaze on top just before serving. They also look charming served alongside small espresso cups or nestled in paper cones for a casual yet elegant takeaway option. Try spreading a thin layer of coffee buttercream between two beignets for a makeshift sandwich treat that will impress any guest.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Glazed Coffee Beignets, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to preserve their softness and flavor. Avoid refrigeration as it tends to dry the delicate dough. For best enjoyment, consume leftovers within this time frame for freshness.

Freezing

To keep your batch fresh longer, you can freeze unfried dough squares placed in single layers on a tray. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag for up to one month. Alternatively, freeze cooked beignets after they have cooled and glazed; just wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating

Reheat leftover beignets in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warm and slightly crisp on the outside. You can also briefly microwave them, but the oven method is preferable to maintain that delightful texture. Consider refreshing the glaze or dipping them briefly again for a little extra shine and sweetness after reheating.

FAQs

Can I use instant coffee instead of ground coffee?

For the richest flavor, using freshly brewed coffee from ground dark coffee is best, but in a pinch, a strong instant coffee concentrate can work in the glaze. However, it won’t provide the same depth of flavor to the dough itself.

Is it necessary to fry the beignets, or can they be baked?

Traditional beignets are deep-fried to get that crisp, golden exterior balanced by a soft interior. Baking them will yield a different texture that’s less classic but still tasty; just be prepared for a chewier result.

How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature?

A deep-fry thermometer is your best bet to maintain 350°F, the ideal frying temperature. If the oil is too cool, the dough absorbs excess oil and becomes greasy; too hot, and the beignets burn on the outside without cooking through.

Can I make the dough the night before?

Making the dough ahead is possible; keep it refrigerated and bring it to room temperature before rolling out and frying. Keep in mind that overnight refrigeration may continue to develop the yeast flavor and affect rising times.

Will these beignets hold up well for a coffee bar at an event?

Yes, Glazed Coffee Beignets are perfect for coffee bars. Fry them fresh when possible, but if not, reheat gently before serving and keep the glaze nearby for dipping. Their coffee flavor complements various coffee drinks beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Making Glazed Coffee Beignets is a wonderful way to turn a few simple ingredients into something truly magical and comforting. Perfect for weekend breakfasts, special gatherings, or whenever you want a lively spin on a classic treat, these beignets invite both coffee lovers and sweet tooths alike to revel in their warm, aromatic splendor. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and enjoy every glorious bite as much as I do!

Glazed Coffee Beignets Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 22 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: Approximately 40–50 beignets 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Delight in the rich and aromatic flavors of Glazed Coffee Beignets, a crispy yet tender French-style doughnut infused with the bold essence of dark coffee and topped with a luscious coffee glaze. Perfect for a special breakfast treat or an indulgent snack, these beignets combine a unique brewed coffee dough with a sweet, velvety glaze for an unforgettable taste experience.

Instructions

Brew Coffee: Brew 3/4 cup ground dark coffee with 3 cups of cold water using your preferred brewing method such as a drip coffee maker or French press. Once brewed, set aside 1/2 cup of the coffee to use later in the glaze.
Activate Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/3 cup granulated sugar with 1 envelope active dry yeast. Gradually stir in 1 1/2 cups of the warm brewed coffee (100-110°F) and let the mixture stand for about 10 minutes or until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
Mix Dough Base: Using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, on low speed, add in half of the flour, warm half and half, beaten eggs, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Beat until combined.
Add Remaining Flour and Knead: Gradually beat in the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, continuing until the dough no longer sticks to the sides of the bowl. Remove the dough from the bowl and knead by hand on a floured surface for about 2 minutes to form a smooth and soft dough, adding flour as needed.
Let Dough Rise: Spray a large bowl with nonstick cooking spray and place the dough inside. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel and set it in a warm place to rise for about 1 hour. The dough should become puffy but does not have to fully double.
Prepare Glaze: While the dough rises, prepare the glaze by combining 4 cups confectioners’ sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and the reserved 1/2 cup brewed coffee in a medium bowl. Mix until smooth, then cover with plastic wrap until ready to use.
Heat Oil and Shape Beignets: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Turn the risen dough out onto a floured surface and gently roll it to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut the dough into 1 1/2-inch squares.
Fry Beignets: Carefully drop 4 dough squares at a time into the hot oil. Fry for about 1 minute per side or until they are golden brown and puffed. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove beignets and drain them on wire racks placed over paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Glaze Beignets: While still warm, dip each beignet into the coffee glaze, ensuring it is well coated. Place them back on the wire racks to allow excess glaze to drip off and the coating to set slightly before serving.

Notes

Make sure the coffee and half and half are warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
Dough thickness can be adjusted slightly based on preference but 1/4-inch thickness produces perfectly soft centers.
Use a deep thermometer to maintain consistent oil temperature at 350°F for even frying.
Beignets are best enjoyed fresh and warm for the ideal texture and flavor.
You can store leftover beignets in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat briefly before glazing.
If you prefer less glaze sweetness, reduce confectioners’ sugar by 1/2 cup.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Frying
Cuisine: French-American