Beignet

Beignets Recipe

Ingredients

1 package of active dry yeast

1 1/2 c water

2 large eggs

1 c evaporated milk

1/2 c sugar

1/4 c shortening

6.5-7 c flour

Combine 1 package of yeast, 1/2 cup warm water, and 1 tsp granulated sugar in bowl. If you use fast acting yeast continue with recipe. If not wait 5 minutes for yeast to become active. Add 1 c of evaporated milk and 2 eggs (beaten), 1 tsp salt, 1/2 c sugar and mix with mixer.

Microwave 1 cup of water until hot. Stir in 1/4 c shortening until melted. Add to the yeast mixture. Beat on low and gradually add 4 cups of flour, until smooth. Using a spatula mix in and additional 2.5-3 cups of flour. (don't use hand mixer because it will just climb up the beaters) Place finished ball of dough in a greased bowl, turn it over once so there is oil on top, cover, and let it chill in the fridge for 4-24 hours.

Place dough ball on floured surface and roll out to 1/4 thickness. Do not roll more than once. Cut it into squares approximately 2x2 inches. If you make too thick the dough won't cook on the inside and if you try to roll out more than once it will be extremely thick. 

Heat oil in a pan make sure it is at least 1 inch deep so the beignets has room to float and puff up.

Fry dough for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Drain on a wire rack or paper towels. Dust immediately with powdered sugar.

I made festive hearts for Valentines day using a cookie cutter. I am sure other shapes would be just as cute and they taste delicious!