How to Make Beignets

A traditional New Orleans-style bread recipe for their famous beignets! Grab a cafe au lait and you're set!

Ingredients:

2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast

1 1/2 cups warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)

1/2 cup white sugar

1 teaspoon salt

2 eggs

1 cup evaporated milk

7 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup shortening

1 quart vegetable oil for frying

1/4 cup confectioners' sugar

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add sugar, salt, eggs, evaporated milk, and blend well. Mix in 4 cups of the flour and beat until smooth. 

2. Add the shortening, and then the remaining 3 cups of flour. Cover and chill for up to 24 hours.Roll out dough 1/8 inch thick. Cut into 2 1/2 inch squares. 

3. Fry in 360 degree F (180 degrees C) hot oil. If beignets do not pop up, oil is not hot enough. Drain onto paper towels.Shake confectioners' sugar on hot beignets. Serve warm.