I love NOLA

.. and Alex loves NOLA's beignets. So imagine my surprise today when I'm reading through Southern Living and find a recipe for his favorites! I haven't tried it, but here's the recipe, just in case you love NOLA and it's food as much as we do!

1 (1/4oz) envelope active dry yeast
1.5c warm water divided (100-115F)
.5c granulated sugar
1c evaporated milk
2 large eggs, beaten lightly
1t salt
.25c shortening
6.5-7c bread flour
vegetable oil
sifted powder sugar

1. Make yeast mixture. Combine yeast, 1/2c warm water, and 1t granulated sugar in bowl of a heavy duty stand mixer; let stand 5 minutes. Add milk, eggs, salt, and remaining granulated sugar.

2. Form dough. Microwave remaining 1c water until hot (115F); stir in shortening until melted. Add to yeast mixture. Beat a low speed, gradually adding 4c flour, until smooth. Gradually add remaining 2.5-3c flour, beating until a sticky dough forms. Transfer to a lightly greased bowl. Turn to grease top. Cover and chill 4-24 hours.

3. Roll and cut. Turn dough out onto a floured surface; roll to 1/4" thickness. Cut into 2.5" squares.

4. Fry until golden. Pour oil to depth of 2 to 3" into a dutch oven; heat to 360F. Fry dough, in batches, 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Drain on wire rack. Dust immediately with powdered sugar.

Thanks Southern Living! Can't wait to try these when A gets home.