Can You Make Beignets in an Air Fryer Discover the Crispy Truth

Yes, you can make beignets in an air fryer—and they come out crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, with far less oil than traditional frying. This quick, easy method delivers authentic flavor and texture in under 15 minutes, making air fryer beignets a game-changer for dessert lovers.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, air fryer beignets work: Achieve crispy outsides with less oil.
• Preheat for best results: Ensures even cooking and perfect texture.
• Use store-bought dough: Saves time without sacrificing flavor.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket: Allows air circulation for uniform crispiness.
• Coat generously in sugar: Freshly fried beignets need a sweet finish.
• Experiment with fillings: Try Nutella or fruit preserves for variety.

Why Air Fryer Beignets Might Just Be Your New Favorite Treat

Picture this: it’s a lazy Sunday morning, the coffee’s brewing, and the smell of something sweet and golden is wafting from the kitchen. You’re craving beignets—those fluffy, pillowy squares of fried dough dusted with a snowfall of powdered sugar, a New Orleans classic that feels like a hug from a warm bakery. But there’s a problem: you don’t want to deal with a vat of hot oil, the smoke alarms, or the greasy aftermath. Enter the air fryer, your trusty countertop companion that promises crispy, golden results with a fraction of the oil. So, can you make beignets in an air fryer? The short answer is yes—but like any kitchen experiment, it comes with nuances, trade-offs, and a few delightful surprises.

I first tried air fryer beignets on a whim after a late-night craving and a fridge full of store-bought puff pastry. I was skeptical. Could something so deeply rooted in deep-frying traditions survive the air fryer’s hot, circulating air? Would it still be fluffy inside, crispy outside, and worthy of that iconic powdered sugar dusting? After a few trial runs (and a minor sugar explosion in the fryer basket), I discovered that yes, you can make beignets in an air fryer—and they can be shockingly good. But it’s not quite the same as the original. This post is your guide to understanding the crispy truth behind air fryer beignets, from the science to the shortcuts, so you can decide if it’s worth a shot in your own kitchen.

The Science Behind Air Fryer Beignets: How It Works

How Air Frying Transforms Dough

At its core, an air fryer is a mini convection oven. It circulates hot air (usually between 350°F and 400°F) around food at high speed, creating a crispy exterior through the Maillard reaction—the same browning process that happens in deep frying, but without submerging the food in oil. For beignets, this means the outside gets golden and slightly crisp, while the inside remains tender and airy, thanks to steam trapped within the dough.

The key difference? Deep frying cooks beignets from all sides simultaneously, creating a uniform crispness and a richer, oil-infused texture. Air frying, on the other hand, relies on radiant heat and air flow, which means the bottom and top get crispier than the sides. This isn’t a flaw—it’s a feature. You just need to work with it.

The Oil Dilemma: How Much Is Too Much?

Traditional beignets are fried in 2–3 cups of oil (usually vegetable or peanut oil), absorbing about 10–15% of their weight in oil. In an air fryer, you’ll use just a light spritz or brush of oil—usually 1/2 to 1 teaspoon per batch. This cuts the oil content by over 90%, making air fryer beignets a lighter option. But here’s the catch: less oil means less flavor and a slightly less crispy texture. To compensate:

• Use high-smoke-point oils like avocado or canola for better browning.
• Brush or spray evenly—don’t drench the dough. Too much oil pools in the basket and can smoke.
• Add oil to the basket (1/2 tsp) to mimic the “frying” effect and prevent sticking.

I once skipped the oil entirely, thinking I was being “healthy.” The result? Dry, pale beignets that tasted like cardboard. A light oil coating makes all the difference.

Texture Trade-Offs: Crisp vs. Fluffy

Air fryer beignets won’t have the same crunch as deep-fried ones, but they can still be delicious. The texture is more “baked with a crispy edge” than “fried with a golden shell.” The inside stays fluffy because the air fryer’s dry heat doesn’t overcook the center as quickly as deep frying does. For best results:

• Don’t overcrowd the basket. Leave space for air to circulate—2–3 beignets at a time is ideal.
• Flip halfway to ensure even browning (yes, even with air fryers, flipping helps).
• Use a thermometer to check internal temp (190°F–200°F is perfect for doneness).

Air Fryer Beignets vs. Deep-Fried: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Taste and Texture Showdown

Let’s be honest: deep-fried beignets are the gold standard. The oil adds richness, the crispness is more uniform, and the texture is a perfect balance of soft and crunchy. Air fryer beignets are a close second—lighter, less greasy, and still satisfying, but with a slightly different mouthfeel. Think of it this way:

• Deep-fried: Crispy all around, rich, indulgent, with a hint of oil flavor.
• Air fryer: Crispy top and bottom, fluffy inside, less greasy, with a more “baked” profile.

My taste test? I served both versions to friends blindfolded. Most preferred the deep-fried ones for the texture, but the air fryer version won points for being “less heavy” and “perfect for a weekday treat.”

Nutrition and Calorie Breakdown

Here’s where the air fryer shines. Let’s compare a standard 3-beignet serving (approx. 30g each):

Nutrient	Deep-Fried Beignets	Air Fryer Beignets
Calories	320–350	220–250
Fat (g)	18–22	6–8
Carbs (g)	35–40	35–40
Sugar (g)	12–15 (plus powdered sugar)	12–15 (plus powdered sugar)

The air fryer cuts nearly 100 calories and 10g of fat per serving. Not bad for a treat! But remember: the powdered sugar topping adds about 10g of sugar per beignet, so it’s still a sweet indulgence.

Time and Effort: Which Method Wins?

Deep frying takes about 20–30 minutes (heating oil, frying, draining, cooling). Air frying? 12–15 minutes total. The air fryer heats up faster, and you don’t need to wait for oil to cool or deal with splatters. Plus, cleanup is a breeze—just wipe the basket. Deep frying requires straining and storing oil, and the stovetop cleanup is messier.

Pro tip: If you’re using store-bought dough, the air fryer is the clear winner for speed. Homemade dough takes the same time either way, but the air fryer’s convenience is a game-changer for weeknights.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Perfect Air Fryer Beignets

Ingredients and Equipment

You’ll need:

• 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade) or 1 cup prepared beignet mix (like Krusteaz).
• 1/2 tsp oil (avocado, canola, or olive oil spray).
• Powdered sugar (for dusting).
• Air fryer basket (nonstick or lined with parchment).
• Pastry brush (for oil).

Optional: cinnamon-sugar mix, chocolate chips, or jam for filling (see variations below).

The Process: From Dough to Dusting

1. Prep the dough: If using puff pastry, thaw it for 30 minutes. Roll to 1/4″ thickness and cut into 2″ squares. For beignet mix, follow package instructions (usually mix with water, rest 10 minutes, then roll/cut).
2. Preheat the air fryer: 375°F for 3–5 minutes. This ensures even cooking.
3. Oil the basket and dough: Lightly spray or brush the basket with oil. Brush the top of each beignet with oil (don’t skip this—it’s crucial for browning).
4. Arrange in basket: Place 2–3 beignets, leaving space between. Don’t overcrowd.
5. Cook: 375°F for 8 minutes. Flip halfway (use tongs or a fork).
6. Check for doneness: They should be golden brown and puffed. If not, cook 1–2 minutes more.
7. Cool slightly, then dust: Let cool 1–2 minutes (to avoid melting the sugar), then dust liberally with powdered sugar.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

• Beignets are pale and dry: Not enough oil. Brush lightly with oil next time, or add 1/2 tsp oil to the basket.
• Beignets stick to the basket: Use parchment paper or a silicone liner. Or lightly spray the basket between batches.
• Beignets don’t puff: Dough too thick or not rested. Roll to 1/4″ and let rest 5 minutes before cutting.
• Powdered sugar melts: Let beignets cool 1–2 minutes first. Or dust just before serving.

I once forgot to flip my beignets—the tops were golden, but the bottoms were doughy. Flipping is non-negotiable!

Creative Variations: Beyond the Classic

Sweet Twists to Try

Why stop at powdered sugar? Get creative:

• Cinnamon-Sugar: Mix 1/4 cup powdered sugar with 1/2 tsp cinnamon. Dust while warm.
• Chocolate-Hazelnut: Spread Nutella inside the dough before folding, then dust with sugar.
• Lemon Zest: Add 1 tsp lemon zest to the dough or sprinkle on top with powdered sugar.
• Stuffed Beignets: Place a small spoon of jam (strawberry, raspberry) in the center of each square, seal the edges, then air fry.

My favorite? Chocolate-hazelnut stuffed beignets with a dusting of cocoa powder. Heaven in an air fryer.

Savory Air Fryer Beignets (Yes, Really!)

Beignets don’t have to be sweet. Try these savory versions:

• Cheesy Herb: Mix 1/4 cup shredded cheddar and 1 tbsp chopped parsley into the dough. Dust with garlic powder.
• Jalapeño Popper: Add diced jalapeños and cream cheese to the dough. Serve with ranch.
• Breakfast Beignets: Fold in cooked bacon and cheddar, then dust with paprika.

These are perfect for brunch or as a snack. Just skip the powdered sugar (or use a light dusting of salt).

Gluten-Free and Vegan Options

For dietary needs:

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free puff pastry (like Schar) or a GF beignet mix.
• Vegan: Substitute plant-based butter in the dough (for homemade) or use vegan puff pastry. Brush with coconut oil instead of butter.

Note: Gluten-free beignets may be less puffy, but they still crisp up nicely in the air fryer.

Tips from the Pros: How to Elevate Your Air Fryer Beignets

Equipment Hacks for Better Results

• Use parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy. Cut to fit your basket.
• Invest in a silicone liner: Reusable and nonstick. Great for frequent use.
• Try a crisper plate: Some air fryers have a “crisper plate” that elevates food for better air flow. Use it!

Storage and Reheating: Keeping Beignets Fresh

Beignets are best fresh, but you can store leftovers:

• Fridge: Place in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes.
• Freezer: Freeze uncooked beignets on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Cook from frozen—add 2–3 minutes to cook time.

Never microwave—it turns them soggy. The air fryer reheats them to almost-fresh quality.

Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve with Air Fryer Beignets

Make it a meal:

• With coffee or café au lait (classic New Orleans style).
• Alongside fruit salad for a light brunch.
• With whipped cream or ice cream for dessert.
• As part of a Mardi Gras spread with jambalaya and king cake.

The Verdict: Are Air Fryer Beignets Worth It?

So, can you make beignets in an air fryer? Absolutely. They’re lighter, faster, and cleaner than deep-fried beignets, with a texture that’s satisfyingly crisp and fluffy. They won’t replace the deep-fried version for purists—but for most of us, they’re a fantastic compromise. The air fryer makes beignets accessible for weeknights, small kitchens, or anyone who hates dealing with hot oil.

The real magic is in the versatility. From classic powdered sugar to savory bacon-cheese twists, the air fryer handles it all with ease. And while the nutrition isn’t “health food,” it’s a smarter choice than deep frying. You get 90% of the joy with 50% of the guilt.

My final tip? Don’t overthink it. Grab your air fryer, some puff pastry, and a bag of powdered sugar. In 15 minutes, you’ll have a batch of golden, puffy beignets that’ll make your kitchen smell like a New Orleans bakery. Just be sure to dust them generously—after all, that’s the best part. Happy air frying!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make beignets in an air fryer?

Yes, you can make beignets in an air fryer! This method yields a lighter, crispy texture with less oil than traditional deep frying, making it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.

What’s the best way to cook beignets in an air fryer?

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C), lightly spray the basket with oil, and cook the beignets in batches for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway. This ensures even browning and a fluffy interior.

Do air fryer beignets taste as good as fried ones?

Air fryer beignets are deliciously crispy on the outside and soft inside, though slightly less rich than deep-fried versions. The difference is subtle, and many find them just as satisfying with less guilt.

Can you use store-bought dough to make beignets in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Puff pastry or biscuit dough works well for quick air fryer beignets. Cut into squares, dust with powdered sugar, and air fry for a fuss-free treat in under 10 minutes.

How do you prevent beignets from drying out in the air fryer?

Brush the dough lightly with melted butter or oil before cooking and avoid overcooking. The air fryer circulates heat quickly, so keep an eye on them after 5 minutes to retain moisture.

Are air fryer beignets healthier than traditional beignets?

Yes, air fryer beignets use up to 70% less oil, significantly reducing calories and fat. They’re a great alternative for enjoying this classic treat with a lighter touch.