Aliquam in sagittis nulla. Curabitur euismod diam eget risus venenatis, sed dictum lectus bibendum. Nunc nunc nisi, hendrerit eget nisi id, rhoncus rutrum velit. Nunc vel mauris dolor. Class aptent taciti sociosqu ad litora torquent per conubia nostra, per inceptos himenaeos. Aliquam fringilla quis nisi eget imperdiet.
Koeksisters are a classic South African treat, known for their crisp, golden-brown exterior and deliciously sweet, spiced syrup-soaked center. The contrast between the crunchy dough and the cool syrup creates an irresistible texture and taste.
Save This Recipe!
Enter your email and we’ll send you this recipe so you can come back to it later! 😊
Cuisine: South African
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes (plus chilling time for the syrup)
Servings: 5-6
Why You’ll Love Making It
- Crispy & Syrupy Perfection – A deep-fried, braided dough with a crisp shell, soaked in a spiced, citrusy syrup for the perfect bite.
- Beginner-Friendly – This step-by-step guide makes it easy for anyone to master this traditional treat.
- Make-Ahead Convenience – The syrup can be made in advance, and the dough is simple to prepare.
- Authentic South African Flavor – A deliciously unique sweet treat with warm cinnamon and ginger notes.
Ingredients
For the Syrup
- 400g granulated sugar – The base for the syrup, creating the signature sticky sweetness.
- 300ml water – Helps dissolve the sugar and achieve the right syrup consistency.
- 1 cinnamon stick – Adds a warm, aromatic spice.
- Some chopped ginger – Adjust to taste for a mild to strong kick.
- 1 slice of lemon – Adds brightness and balances the syrup’s sweetness.
For the Dough
- 260g plain flour – Provides structure and chewiness.
- 80g corn flour – Contributes to a light, crisp texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the dough puff up while frying.
- 2 tablespoons milk powder – Adds richness and a slight creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar – A touch of sweetness in the dough itself.
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger – Complements the syrup with a subtle spice.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Enhances warmth and depth of flavor.
- 1 egg – Provides structure and binds the dough.
- 150ml whole milk – Adds moisture for a soft interior.
- 40g unsalted butter, melted – Improves texture and flavor.
Easy, Healthy Recipes
Delivered to your inbox
Join over 5,000 food lovers
getting healthy, easy-to-make recipes weekly!
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Syrup
In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, cinnamon stick, chopped ginger, and lemon slice. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and transfer to a heatproof container. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight. The syrup must be completely cold before soaking the hot koeksisters.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the plain flour, corn flour, salt, baking powder, milk powder, sugar, ground ginger, and ground cinnamon. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and milk together, then pour it into the dry ingredients. Add the melted butter and mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. If it feels sticky, lightly dust your hands with flour. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rest for 30 minutes at room temperature.
Step 3: Shape the Koeksisters
Once the dough has rested, roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle about 2-2.5 cm thick. Cut into 5-6 smaller rectangles. Take one rectangle and cut it into three equal strands, keeping the top connected. Lightly brush the top with water to help secure the braid, then braid the strands together, pressing the end to seal. Repeat for all dough pieces and place them on a tray.
Step 4: Fry the Koeksisters
Heat oil in a deep pot to 180°C (350°F). Test the oil by dropping in a small piece of dough—if it sizzles and rises, it’s ready. Fry 2 at a time to maintain oil temperature. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, turning once, until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and briefly drain on a paper towel.
Step 5: Soak in Syrup
Immediately transfer the hot koeksisters into the cold syrup, fully submerging them. Let them soak for 30 seconds so they absorb the syrup. Remove with a fork and place on a wire rack to drain excess syrup. Repeat the process for all koeksisters.
Step 6: Serve & Store
Enjoy fresh while crisp and syrupy. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Serve cold for the best texture.
FAQs
Why do I need to soak hot koeksisters in cold syrup?
The temperature contrast allows the syrup to absorb quickly without making the dough soggy, creating the perfect crispy-yet-syrupy texture.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes! The dough can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before shaping and frying.
