French Quarter Beignets From Paula Deen Recipes

FRENCH QUARTER BEIGNETS (FROM PAULA DEEN)

Steps:

• Mix water, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl and let sit for 10 minutes.
• In another bowl, beat the eggs, salt and evaporated milk together.
• Mix egg mixture to the yeast mixture.
• In a separate bowl, measure out the bread flour.
• Add 3 cups of the flour to the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
• Add the shortening and continue to stir while adding the remaining flour.
• Remove dough from the bowl, place onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth.
• Spray a large bowl with nonstick spray. Put dough into the bowl and cover with plastic wrap or a towel.
• Let rise in a warm place for at least 2 hours.
• Preheat oil in a deep-fryer to 350 degrees F.
• Add the confectioners' sugar to a paper or plastic bag and set aside.
• Roll the dough out to about 1/4-inch thickness and cut into 1-inch squares.
• Deep-fry, flipping constantly, until they become a golden color.
• After beignets are fried, drain them for a few seconds on paper towels, and then toss them into the bag of confectioners' sugar.
• Hold bag closed and shake to coat evenly.
• Serve warm with syrup, if desired.