Shelly's Recipe

WINTER SPICED BEIGNETS

Category: Bread

1 envelope active dry yeast
3/4 cup warm water
3/4 cup sugar, divided
1/2 tsp salt
1 egg, beaten
1/2 cup evaporated milk
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/8 cup shortening
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp cardamom
1/4 tsp dried orange pee
lPeanut oil (for deep frying)

Sprinkle yeast over water (heated to 110 degrees) in a large bowl; stir to dissolve, and let stand for 5 minutes. Add 1/2 cup sugar, salt, beaten egg, and evaporated milk. MIx thoroughly using an electric mixer at medium speed. Add half the flour; beat until smooth. Add shortening; gradually blend in remaining flour. Cover with plastic wrap and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Roll out dough on a floured board to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into 2 1/2- to 3-inch triangles.

Mix together the remaining sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, and orange peel; set aside.

Pour 2 inches of peanut oil into a large heavy-bottomed pot, or fill a deep-fat fryer and heat to 360 degrees. Working in small batches, fry beignets for 2 to 3 minutes, or until lightly browned on both sides. Remove with a slotted spoon to a paper towel-lined plate. Toss hot beignets in the sugar mixture. Serve immediately.