Description
Koeksisters are a traditional South African sweet treat, known for their syrup-soaked, twisted dough that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Oil for frying
- For the syrup:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Once boiling, reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, then stir in the milk and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and roll it out to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut the dough into strips about 1 inch wide and 3 inches long.
- Take each strip and twist it into a figure-eight shape, pinching the ends to seal.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F. Fry the twisted dough pieces in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- While the koeksisters are still warm, dip them into the cooled syrup, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them soak for a few seconds, then place them on a wire rack to allow excess syrup to drip off.
Notes
- For a twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the syrup for extra flavor.
- You can also substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: South African
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 koeksister
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg