How to Make Mock Beignets

Have you ever wished that you could re-create those delicious, New Orleans beignets in your own home with ease? Now you can!

By following these simple instructions, you will be able to provide your family with a delicious and quick , special treat for breakfast. These mock beignets are not only to be devoured at breakfast time. Why not share a plate of them with friends over coffee?

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 1 loaf of frozen bread dough
• powdered sugar
• large bowl
• saran wrap or other plastic wrap
• rolling pin
• knife
• oil for frying
• paper towels
• plates
• tongs or fork
• hungry family and/or friends
• optional: brown paper sack

1. If you plan to make these in the morning, the night before, place the loaf of bread dough into the large bowl and cover with plastic wrap. (If you have a cake dome, that's works just as well!) If you plan on making the mock beignets in the afternoon, I would place the frozen loaf in the bowl and cover for approximately 8 hours before you intend to make them, to allow enough time for the dough to rise.

2. After the dough has risen and you're ready to begin preparing the mock beignets, add about 2-3 inches of oil into your skillet or if you have a deep fryer, you may use that if you prefer. Heat to 375 degrees.

3. While you oil is heating, dust your counter top or working area with flour and begin to roll out the dough until thin, approximately 1/8 inch in thickness or you may alter the thickness based on your preference.

4. After you have rolled out the dough, cut it into 1x1 inch squares, 2x2 inch squares, or even different shapes if you have cookie cutters!

5. Once the oil has reached the proper temperature and you have cut your dough into the squares (or other shapes), begin to fry them in the oil, three at a time until golden. I fry them for a couple of minutes on one side, flip them over to brown the other side, and they are done cooking when they float.

6. When they are done cooking, remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb the oil.

7. Sprinkle with powdered sugar or have a small paper bag filled with powdered sugar and place the mock beignets inside and give it a shake.

8. Plate the mock beignets on a serving platter or serve them on saucers to your mouth watering guests or family.

Tips & Warnings

• Growing up in Louisiana, we always made these at home, especially on Saturday mornings. For a variation, try eliminating the powdered sugar and simply add a pat of butter to the fried dough. It's delicious! Also, if you prefer cinnamon and sugar, try sprinkling on a bit of that!
• When working with powdered sugar, it has a way of getting onto your clothing, regardless of how careful you are. If you're making these for the little ones, it's quite fun to watch them enjoy their treats and blow the powdered sugar into the air! Be prepared to wipe hands and faces!
• When working with hot oil or grease, I tend to always keep a box of baking soda within reach and a lid for the skillet (metal lid) , just in case of any unforeseen incidents, for example, a grease fire. The most important thing, is to never leave the stove unattended and to keep the little ones away from the stove.