Beignets (from Disney’s New Orleans Square in Disneyland)

For the yeast dough:
  • 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup warm water (105°F to 115°F)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For frying:
  • Vegetable oil for frying (about 2-3 inches deep in a pot)
  • Thermometer (optional)
For dusting:
  • Confectioners’ sugar (powdered sugar)
Instructions:
  • Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Stir to dissolve, then let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy.
  • Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the yeast mixture, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  • Knead the dough: Using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment or a wooden spoon, knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  • Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
  • Punch down the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and roll it out to about 1/4 inch thickness.
  • Cut the beignets: Use a pastry cutter or a knife to cut the dough into 2-inch squares. You can also use a round cutter to make圆形 beignets.
  • Fry the beignets: Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready. Fry the beignets in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown.
  • Drain excess oil: Use a slotted spoon to remove the beignets from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  • Dust with powdered sugar: While the beignets are still warm, dust them generously with confectioners’ sugar. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips:
  • Make sure the oil is at the right temperature, as this will affect the texture and flavor of the beignets.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pot when frying the beignets. Fry in batches if necessary.
  • Dust the beignets with powdered sugar while they’re still warm, as this will help the sugar stick to the beignets.
Now, go ahead and indulge in these sweet treats, just like you would at Disneyland’s New Orleans Square!