A beignet is the New Orleans pastry that is traditionally square, fried, and covered with powdered sugar.
New Orleans beignets are made from a yeast-raised dough that is rolled, cut into squares, deep-fried, and generously dusted with powdered sugar. They are commonly served hot with coffee or café au lait.
The pastry reflects French culinary influence and became especially identified with New Orleans through establishments such as Café du Monde, which has operated in the French Market area since the nineteenth century. Louisiana designated the beignet its official state doughnut in 1986.
Beignets are related to other fried doughs but are not identical to Italian zeppole, Mexican churros, or funnel cake. Their square shape and powdered-sugar topping are familiar features of the New Orleans style, although recipes and shapes can vary elsewhere.