Koeksisters
Discover the delightful South African treat with our Koeksisters recipe! Infused with ginger, cinnamon, and a hint of lemon, this sweet, syrupy pastry combines crispy, golden dough with a fragrant syrup for an irresistible dessert. Perfect for any occasion!
- 17 Apr 2025
- Cook time 130 min
- Prep time 60 min
- 10 Servings
- 10 Ingredients
Koeksisters are a traditional South African dessert known for their sweet, sticky, and aromatic flavor. These golden, deep-fried dough twists are soaked in a spiced syrup, making them a delectable treat that's perfect for any occasion. Follow this recipe to make your own delicious Koeksisters at home.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, grated ginger, cinnamon stick, lemon juice, and water.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Remove the syrup from the heat and let it cool completely. Once cooled, transfer the syrup to a large, shallow dish and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, or until well chilled. Chilled syrup helps achieve the signature crispness of Koeksisters.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and ground nutmeg.
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
- In a separate small bowl, beat the egg and combine it with the milk.
- Pour the egg-milk mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch (6mm) thickness.
- Cut the dough into rectangles approximately 4 inches by 2 inches (10cm by 5cm).
- Divide each rectangle into three strips, leaving one end uncut to keep the strips connected.
- Braid the three strips together, and then press the ends to seal them.
- In a deep pan or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Be cautious as hot oil can be dangerous.
- Fry the braided dough pieces in batches until they are golden brown and crisp, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels briefly.
- While still hot, immerse the fried koeksisters in the chilled syrup for a few seconds to soak.
- Remove and place them on a wire rack to drain any excess syrup.
- Once cooled, your Koeksisters are ready to be enjoyed! They can be served as a delightful dessert or as a sweet treat with tea or coffee.
Tips:
- Make the syrup in advance.: Prepare the sugar syrup a day before and store it in the fridge. The cold syrup will help the fried koeksisters absorb more flavor.
- Use cold syrup.: Dip the hot, freshly fried dough pieces directly into cold syrup for the best results. This contrast in temperature is crucial for absorption and creating a crispy exterior.
- Keep the dough covered.: While working with the dough, keep the portions you are not currently shaping covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out.
- Don’t overcrowd the oil.: Fry a few koeksisters at a time to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
- Store properly.: Store koeksisters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage; just thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Koeksisters, a delightful South African treat that's sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of spiced syrup and soft, twisted dough creates a unique and irresistible dessert. Serve them fresh for the best experience!
| Nutrition Facts | |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | 100 grams |
| Energy | |
| Calories 350kcal | 17% |
| Protein | |
| Protein 4.17g | 3% |
| Carbohydrates | |
| Carbohydrates 63g | 19% |
| Fiber 1.05g | 3% |
| Sugar 45g | 47% |
| Fat | |
| Fat 7g | 9% |
| Saturated 3.71g | 12% |
| Cholesterol 40mg | - |
| Vitamins | |
| Vitamin A 70ug | 8% |
| Choline 24mg | 4% |
| Vitamin B1 0.09mg | 7% |
| Vitamin B2 0.05mg | 4% |
| Vitamin B3 0.44mg | 3% |
| Vitamin B6 0.04mg | 2% |
| Vitamin B9 11ug | 3% |
| Vitamin B12 0.12ug | 5% |
| Vitamin C 1.26mg | 1% |
| Vitamin E 0.09mg | 1% |
| Vitamin K 0.71ug | 1% |
| Minerals | |
| Calcium, Ca 60mg | 5% |
| Copper, Cu 0.07mg | 7% |
| Iron, Fe 0.51mg | 5% |
| Magnesium, Mg 13mg | 3% |
| Phosphorus, P 70mg | 6% |
| Potassium, K 80mg | 2% |
| Selenium, Se 7ug | 13% |
| Sodium, Na 63mg | 4% |
| Zinc, Zn 0.43mg | 4% |
| Water | |
| Water 22g | - |
| * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. | |
More recipes
Layered carrot cake with honeyed walnuts
Get ready to impress your guests and delight your taste buds with this irresistible treat.
27 Mar 2025Peanut butter and peach toast with whole-wheat bread
Perfect for breakfast or a quick snack.
01 Jun 2025Dad's cheesy potatoes
Enjoy golden, gooey goodness that's sure to become a family favorite.
31 Mar 2025Pie maker solo scones
Ready in minutes with a pie maker, they’re a delicious homemade delight.
06 Apr 2025Chicken bacon wrap with veggies
Quick, delicious, and perfect for a satisfying meal any day of the week.
25 Apr 2025