1/2 c. boiling water
1/4 c. butter
1/2 c. sifted all purpose flour
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla extract

In a large saucepan heat water and butter until butter melts. Add flour all at once and stir hard until dough forms a soft ball in the center of the pan. Remove from heat and let stand five minutes. Add one egg and beat until well blended. Add second egg and vanilla and beat as before. This mixture should be very stiff. If not, let it stand 10 minutes.

Drop by spoonful into deep cooking fat or oil heated to 375 degrees. The beignet will turn over as one side browns. Drain well on paper towels and sprinkle lightly with confectioners' sugar or dip into melted chocolate on one side.

Makes about 18.