I never thought I'd be able to make beignets. I had my first one a few years ago in New Orleans and it was absolutely amazing.

Photo bycanva

These are easier to make than you might think.

And once you make it once, you can easily recreate these any time a craving hits.

Enjoy!

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F or 43°C)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions

• Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
• Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Add the frothy yeast mixture and mix well. Gradually add the flour and salt, stirring until the dough begins to come together.
• Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
• Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
• Shape the Beignets: Once risen, turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut the dough into 2-inch squares or rectangles.
• Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature for frying.
• Fry the Beignets: Carefully drop a few pieces of dough into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
• Dust with Powdered Sugar: While still warm, dust the beignets generously with powdered sugar.
• Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm, and enjoy with coffee or hot chocolate!

What do you think?

Enjoy this recipe. It's a favorite of mine!