# What You'll Need:
→ Dough
01 - 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
02 - 3/4 cup warm milk (110°F)
03 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
04 - 2 large eggs, room temperature
05 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
06 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
08 - 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
→ Frying
09 - 4 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
→ Decoration
10 - 2 cups powdered sugar
11 - 3 to 4 tablespoons milk
12 - Food coloring (red, green, blue, gold, silver, etc.)
13 - Assorted festive sprinkles and edible pearls
# Directions:
01 - Dissolve yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar in a large bowl. Let it stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
02 - Whisk in granulated sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
03 - Knead dough on a lightly floured surface for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Transfer to a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
04 - Roll the dough to 1/2-inch thickness. Cut rounds using a 2-inch cutter. Re-roll scraps as needed.
05 - Place rounds on parchment-lined trays. Cover and allow to rise for 20 minutes.
06 - Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F. Fry beignets in batches for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and cool.
07 - Mix powdered sugar and milk until smooth and spreadable. Divide and tint with food coloring as desired.
08 - Dip or spread icing over cooled beignets. Adorn with sprinkles and edible pearls to mimic Christmas ornaments. Let icing set before serving.
