Beignets are traditional French pastries served around the clock in New Orleans. By deep-frying dough and topping it with a generous amount of powdered sugar, these have easily become a favorite treat. If a visit to New Orleans is not in your future, you can still enjoy these delicious pastries at home by learning how to make beignets.

While traditionally, beignets are simply dough, other variations include filling the pastries with fruit, potatoes, meat or seafood. This this guide, we discuss the ingredients and preparation method for classic beignets, similar to those served as the world-famous Cafe de Monde in New Orleans' French Quarter.

• 1 packet active dry yeast
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup evaporated milk
• 3 1/2 cup flour
• 1/8 cup shortening
• Cooking oil for frying, about 1 quart
• Powdered sugar for dusting

1. Mix the yeast, warm water and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Let sit for 5-10 minutes of until frothy.
2. Stir in the salt, egg and evaporated milk and mix until well combined.
3. Add in one half of the flour, mixing well.
4. Stir in the shortening, then the remainder of the flour.
5. Cover and refrigerate the dough for 24 hours.
6. Roll the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle until approximately 1/4-inch thick.
7. Cut the dough into 2 1/2-inch squares.
8. Place the cut squares on a floured baking sheet and allow to rise in a warm spot for 30-40 minutes.
9. Preheat your cooking oil to 375 degrees F.
10. Deep fry the beignets, two or three at a time for two to three minutes or until golden brown and they rise to the surface.
11. Drain on paper towel, then dust with a generous amount of powdered sugar.
12. Serve warm and enjoy!

• Rather than powdered sugar, top each pastry with a simple icing.
• After baking, try filling each pastry with fruit, like a filled donut, if desired.
• For an authentic taste, order beignet batter mix directly from Cafe de Monde in New Orleans and prepare them at home.