Koeksisters are a traditional South African pastry, loved for their crisp, golden-brown exterior and irresistibly sweet, syrupy center. These twisted, deep-fried dough treats are soaked in a spiced sugar syrup, creating the perfect combination of crunch and sweetness. Making koeksisters at home may take some time, but the delicious results are worth every effort!
Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own batch of authentic South African koeksisters.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter (cold)
- ¼ cup (60ml) milk
- ¼ cup (60ml) water
- 1 egg
For the Syrup:
- 2 cups (400g) sugar
- 1 cup (250ml) water
- ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Syrup (Ahead of Time!)
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, water, cream of tartar, and cinnamon stick. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat, add the lemon juice and vanilla extract, and let the syrup cool completely in the refrigerator. (Chilled syrup is key for the best koeksisters!)
Step 2: Make the Dough
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the butter using your fingers or a fork until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, milk, and water together. Gradually add this to the flour mixture, kneading until a smooth dough forms.
- Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Step 3: Shape the Koeksisters
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface until it is about 5mm thick.
- Cut the dough into strips about 8cm long and 2cm wide.
- Take each strip and cut it into three thinner strips, leaving one end attached. Braid the three strands together and pinch the end to seal.
Step 4: Fry to Perfection
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 170-180°C (340-350°F).
- Carefully drop the braids into the hot oil and fry until they are golden brown and crisp (about 3-4 minutes per side).
- Remove and immediately dip the hot koeksisters into the chilled syrup. Let them soak for a few seconds before placing them on a wire rack to cool.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Koeksisters are best enjoyed fresh and cold, with their sticky, syrupy coating making them irresistibly sweet. Serve them with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect South African treat!
Tips for Perfect Koeksisters:
✅ Always use cold syrup – this ensures the koeksisters absorb the syrup properly.
✅ Fry in small batches – overcrowding the pan lowers the oil temperature.
✅ Make syrup in advance – it needs to be completely chilled for the best texture.
✅ Store in the fridge – koeksisters taste even better when served cold!
Conclusion
Making koeksisters at home is a rewarding experience that brings the taste of South African tradition right to your kitchen. Follow this recipe, and you’ll have a batch of golden, syrupy koeksisters that will impress anyone who tries them.