If you’ve ever seen The Princess and the Frog, you’ll remember that irresistible scene — the one where Tiana’s beignets have everyone swooning. “Oh, Tia, you are bonafide genius. I’m gonna need about five hundred of your man-catching beignets for my ball tonight!” That line never fails to make me smile… and crave something warm, golden, and covered in powdered sugar.
So when I found out that Disney actually released Tiana’s beignet recipe, you’d better believe I was in the kitchen faster than you can say “New Orleans.” I’m no professional baker — just a girl who loves a cozy kitchen moment — but this recipe was surprisingly simple to follow and turned out absolutely delicious.
There was one tiny hiccup along the way (because what’s baking without a little chaos, right?). My vegetable shortening didn’t mix quite as smoothly as I’d hoped. I used Great Value this time, but next round I’ll be trying Crisco to see if it gives the dough that perfect, fluffy texture Tiana herself would approve of.
When the beignets came out of the oil — golden, pillowy, and dusted with a snowy layer of powdered sugar — I felt this unexpected wave of joy and nostalgia. There’s just something about Disney magic that makes its way into real life when you least expect it. I even have a framed photo of Tiana in my kitchen as a little reminder to chase dreams, work hard, and enjoy the sweet things in life (literally and figuratively).
If you haven’t tried this recipe yet, I can’t recommend it enough. It’s an easy, cozy afternoon project — best enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee and maybe a Disney soundtrack playing in the background. And if you do give it a go, I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!
Here’s to channeling our inner Tiana — mixing, frying, and dreaming big — one delicious beignet at a time. 💛✨
Cupcakes & Tea with Elizabeth 