Beignets (pronounced ben-YAYs) are fluffy, deep-fried pastries tossed in generous amounts of powdered sugar. This soft, yeasty delight is a symbol of New Orleans (who doesn’t think of Cafe du Monde?), but also of Louisiana’s joie de vivre: The dessert is eaten any time of day, simply for the sake of it.
Beignets are typically served alongside a cafe au lait, and they’re delicious dipped into a vanilla-y crème anglaise; stuffed with warm, melted chocolate; or drizzled in chocolate sauce.
History of Beignets
It’s believed that 18th-century Acadian settlers brought the tradition of beignet-making to south Louisiana. The French Market in New Orleans popularized the dessert in the 1920s, but it wasn't recognized by the name beignet until 1958. By 1986, the Louisiana state legislature declared the beignet the official state donut.
Where to Find Beignets
While there are many wonderful places to find jambalaya in Louisiana, here’s a few we’d like to mention: Cafe du Monde in New Orleans serves hot and fresh beignets alongside their famous chicory-spiced coffee, while Marilynn’s Place in Shreveport is known as north Louisiana’s preeminent beignet stop. Don’t forget about Coffee Call, a Baton Rouge staple since 1976.
Explore the gallery below to find beignets and more Louisiana culinary delights.