Springtime Beignets & Berries (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
02 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
04 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
05 - 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons warm water (120° to 130°), divided
06 - 1/2 cup evaporated milk
07 - 1/4 ounce quick-rise yeast (1 package)
08 - 1 large egg
09 - 3-1/4 to 3-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
10 - Oil for deep-fat frying
11 - Confectioners' sugar
12 - Berries and whipped topping, optional

# Instructions:

01 - Beat butter, sugar, salt, and cinnamon until crumbly. Add 1/2 cup warm water and evaporated milk, and mix well. In a separate bowl, dissolve yeast in remaining 2 tablespoons water, then combine with the milk mixture. Beat the egg into the mixture until fully blended.
02 - Gradually add 2 cups of flour to the mixture and stir until well blended. Continue incorporating the remaining flour to form a soft, sticky dough. Place the dough into a greased bowl, turning it once to coat completely. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.
03 - Bring the dough to room temperature. On a floured surface, roll the dough into a 16x12-inch rectangle. Cut into 2-inch squares.
04 - Heat oil in a deep cast-iron skillet or deep-fat fryer to 375°F. Fry a few beignets at a time, turning after about 1 minute per side until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
05 - Dust the beignets with confectioners' sugar. Optionally, serve with assorted berries and whipped topping.

# Notes:

01 - These beignets can be made ahead of time by refrigerating the dough overnight, allowing for a quick preparation the following day.