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Traditional Koeksisters

Koeksister, South African Twisted Doughnuts, Cape Malay Koeksisters

South Africa

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Recipe Snapshot

The essentials, at a glance

These are traditional South African braided doughnuts that are deep-fried and soaked in a cold syrup. They feature a distinct crunchy exterior and a moist, syrup-infused centre. The flavor is characterized by a sweet, spiced profile with hints of ginger and cinnamon.

Africa Snack
DessertSweet
Difficulty

Medium

Servings

12

Prep Time

45 minutes

Make Time

30 minutes

Calories

320 / serving

Diet

Vegetarian

Protein 4.0g
Fat 12.0g
Carbs 48.0g

Above values do not change with any serving size changes you make below

May not be suitable if you suffer with:
Acid Reflux
Lactose Intolerance
IBS
Diabetes
Indigestion
High Blood Pressure
Cook Along

The Working Details

Follow each phase with a cleaner flow from ingredient prep to final plating.

Track cooking progress forTraditional Koeksisters

1
2
3
4
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7
STEP 1

Combine water, cream of tartar, salt, sugar, ginger, lemon juice, and cinnamon in a saucepan; boil and simmer for 10 minutes, then cool and refrigerate.

Ingredients

Servings: 12
The Syrup
236ml / 8oz
400g / 14oz
8g / 0.3oz , chopped
1 unit / 1 unit
15ml / 0.5oz
7g / 0.25oz
3g / 0.1oz
The Koeksisters
180g / 6.3oz
117g / 4.1oz
10g / 0.35oz
4g / 0.15oz
24g / 0.8oz
25g / 0.9oz , softened
1 unit / 1 unit large
118ml / 4oz
500ml / 17oz for frying
Ingredients at a glance
Adjust quantities to your preferred serving size.
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Instructions

The Syrup
Step 1 instruction thumbnail 1

Combine water, cream of tartar, salt, sugar, ginger, lemon juice, and cinnamon in a saucepan; boil and simmer for 10 minutes, then cool and refrigerate.

The Koeksisters
Step 2 instruction thumbnail 2

Mix flour, corn flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a large bowl.

Step 3 instruction thumbnail 3

Incorporate softened butter by hand, then add egg and milk; knead until smooth and let rest for 30 minutes.

Step 4 instruction thumbnail 4

Roll dough to 1 inch thickness, cut into strips, and braid three strands together, pinching ends to seal.

Step 5 instruction thumbnail 5

Heat oil to 180C (350F) and fry koeksisters until golden brown on both sides.

Step 6 instruction thumbnail 6

Remove from oil, drain briefly, and soak in the chilled syrup for a few minutes.

Step 7 instruction thumbnail 7

Transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Other considerations for this recipe

Syrup Temperature
If syrup was refrigerated, let it reach room temperature for 30 minutes before frying the koeksisters.
Make Ahead
Wait to soak in syrup until serving; reheat donuts in the oven before soaking. Dough can be formed the day before.

Nutritional Benefits

Provides a quick energy boost from carbohydrates.

Nutritional information is provided as a general guide only. Values may vary and should not replace professional medical or dietary advice.

The Magic of South African Koeksisters

Traditional Koeksisters
Yum User
Yum User

Braiding the dough is the most rewarding part of making these traditional treats, turning simple flour and butter into intricate, golden knots. As someone who loves discovering global flavours, I find the contrast between the hot, deep-fried dough and the ice-cold syrup absolutely fascinating. This rapid temperature shift is the secret to achieving that iconic crystalline sugar crust while keeping the centre moist and tender.

A Taste of Tradition

The interplay of fresh ginger and cinnamon in the syrup adds a sophisticated warmth that balances the sweetness. When you bite through the crunchy exterior, you get a burst of spiced syrup that feels like a warm hug. These are perfect for sharing with friends over a pot of coffee, bringing a genuine taste of South African hospitality to your own kitchen.

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