Beignets

Yes, I said Beignets. If you have never had a beignet before, you truly don't know what you're missing. Not just any beignet, but a GOOD beignet. Oh yes, there's a difference.

So what is a Beignet? It's basically a sweet, light fried dough covered in powdered sugar. What makes a beignet different than a doughnut? I don't know what science or the experts would say, but my answer? It just is.

How in the world does a girl from Idaho manage to find a love for these delicious southern treats? Check out my travel musings - one trip to the south and I was hooked. After that trip, I made it a mission in life to go home and try to recreate some of the amazingness I tasted in Louisiana and Disney World. 

• 1/2 tsp. Yeast
• 1/4 C. Warm Water
• 1/4 C. Sugar
• 2 T. Shortening, melted
• 1/2 tsp. Salt
• 1/2 C. Heavy Cream
• 1 Egg
• 4 C. Flour
• 1/2 C. Hot Water
• Oil for Frying
• Powdered Sugar
• Strawberry or Raspberry Jam, Optional

In a small bowl, sprinkle Yeast over Warm Water and stir until dissolved. Let sit for 5 minutes.

In large bowl (or stand mixer) combine Sugar, Shortening, Salt, Cream, Egg, Flour & Hot Water. Stir in yeast. Mix dough until combined and smooth. Cover with plastic wrap and set aside for 30 minutes.

Turn dough out onto floured surface and roll to about 1/4". Cut into desired shapes (you can also use a cookie cutter to make shapes) and set on cookie sheets or just leave on counter. Once all the dough is cut, cover with a dish towel and let the dough rise until doubled in size. (Takes 1 to 1 1/2 hours).

In a deep pot over medium high heat, warm your oil to 350' (at least 3" deep works best). Carefully fry beignets until golden brown, turning as needed (about 3 minutes). Remove and place on paper towels to drain.

Dust your warm beignets with powdered sugar. They can be served with Strawberry or Raspberry Jam for an added treat.