Delectable and rich, these cream-filled beignets combine the texture of a beignet with the creamy sweetness of whipped cream. Perfect for special occasions, dessert, or breakfast, these pastries are ideal.

Ingredients for the Beignets:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Vegetable oil for frying

Ingredients for the Filling:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ingredients for the Coating:

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup of warm milk with a bit of sugar to activate the yeast (if using dry yeast).
   • In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, melted butter, salt, and eggs. Mix well.
   • Incorporate the milk mixture into the dough.
   • Gradually add flour, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
   • Place the dough on a floured surface and roll it out to about 1/2 inch thickness.
   • Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until doubled in volume.
2. Cut and Fry the Beignets:
   • Roll out the risen dough on a floured surface and cut into rounds using a cookie cutter.
   • Arrange the cut beignets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover with a towel. Let them rest for another 30 minutes.
   • Heat vegetable oil in a fryer or large pan to 175°C (350°F).
   • Fry the beignets in batches until golden brown on both sides, about 1 to 2 minutes per side.
   • Drain the beignets on a wire rack or paper towels.
3. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a bowl, whip the heavy cream until it starts to thicken.
   • Continue whipping until stiff peaks form, then add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
   • Transfer the whipped cream to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip.
4. Fill and Coat the Beignets:
   • Once the beignets have cooled slightly, use a small spoon to make a small hole in the side of each beignet.
   • Fill each beignet with the whipped cream.
   • Roll the filled beignets in granulated sugar to coat.

Tips for Perfectly Crisp Fried Beignets:

• Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough for even cooking and to avoid greasy beignets.
• Filling: Be gentle when filling the beignets to avoid tearing. Make sure the cream is whipped to stiff peaks for easy filling.

Serve the cream-filled beignets right away or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Enjoy these delicious beignets with a cup of tea or coffee for the perfect treat any time of day.