Traditional South African Koeksisters with Sticky Syrup Glaze
Make authentic South African koeksisters with a crispy exterior, sticky syrup glaze, and a texture in 40 minutes.
About This Recipe
We're making traditional South African koeksisters, featuring a crispy exterior, sticky syrup glaze, and that satisfying braid. The key move? Dipping them in syrup right after frying.
Koeksisters are a beloved South African treat, known for their braided shape and sweet syrup coating. The defining technique is frying the braided dough until golden, then soaking it in a sweet syrup for that irresistible stickiness.
Frying at the right temperature is crucial. Keep an eye on the oil, as too hot will burn the outside while leaving the inside raw. The dough should puff slightly as it fries, ensuring a fluffy texture.
Expect a crispy exterior with a soft, chewy inside, all enveloped in a sweet syrup. A common pitfall is overcooking the syrup; if it thickens too much, your koeksisters won’t soak up that glaze.
Serve these with a cup of tea or coffee for a afternoon treat. They also make a sweet addition to breakfast alongside fresh fruit.
Why This Recipe Works
Crispy Outside, Soft Inside: Frying the dough quickly creates a crispy shell while keeping the inside fluffy and tender.
Sticky Syrup Coating: Dipping the hot koeksisters in syrup right after frying ensures they absorb maximum sweetness.
Braided Texture: The braided shape allows for more surface area, giving each bite a mix of crispy and chewy.
Chef's Pro Tip: Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan; this keeps the oil temperature steady and helps achieve even cooking.
Prep Time
20 min
Cook Time
20 min
Total Time
40 min
Servings
Ingredients
Handy tools while you cook
Directions
- 1
In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until combined.
- 2
Add milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter; mix until a dough forms.
- 3
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
- 4
Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick, then cut into strips and braid.
- 5
Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C); fry the braided koeksisters until golden brown.
- 6
In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and cinnamon; bring to a boil to make syrup.
- 7
Once koeksisters are fried, immediately dip them in the hot syrup for a sticky glaze.
- 8
Let them cool on a wire rack before serving; enjoy the crispy, syrupy goodness!
Nutrition Facts
Per serving
fat
15g
carbs
57g
fiber
1g
sodium
200mg
protein
4g
calories
350
Related Kitchen Tips
All tips
Try these too
More South African recipes
