Step 1

In a large bowl add the warm water and yeast. Let sit for 10 minutes until it starts to proof.

Step 2

In another bowl whisk together the sugar, eggs, and evaporated milk. Whisk the egg mixture into the yeast mixture.

Step 3

In a separate bowl add the flour and salt. Add the flour mixture one cup at a time to the yeast mixture until the dough starts to come together.

Step 4

Remove the dough from the bowl and lightly flour your surface. Knead until the dough becomes smooth and shape into a ball. Add it back to the bowl and cover and let it rise in a warm place until doubled 1-2 hours.

Step 5

Preheat oil in the deep fryer to 350 degrees. Roll the dough into a large rectangle and cut into 2 inch squares. Carefully drop each square into the oil and let it get golden brown on each side 1-2 minutes. Remove with a metal spider strainer. Let the beignets cool and toss in powdered sugar. Serve with chocolate or caramel sauce if desired.