SYRUP

1. Add your syrup ingredients into a pot.
2. Bring the syrup to a boil and stir until the sugar crystals are completely dissolved. Reduce the heat and simmer for approximately 10 minutes.
3. Allow it to cool down on your counter, then place it in the refrigerator to cool down completely, overnight preferably. For best results, your syrup should be as cold as possible.
4. Your syrup can be used when needed.

KOEKSISTER DOUGH

1. Mix your flour, salt, and baking powder thoroughly in a mixing bowl.
2. Cut the butter into small chunks and add it into the flour mixture.
3. Add the milk. Mix well until a dough is formed.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap. Allow it to rest for approximately 2 hours.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to a thickness of approximately1/4 in./ 5mm.
6. Cut the dough into 1/2 in./ 10mm wide strips.
7. Take 3 strips and join their ends on one side. Braid the strips to your desired koeksister length – it should be short enough to comfortably fit into your pot/frying pan. Join other ends. *
8. Fill your pot/pan approximately 2 inches deep. Heat the oil in your pot/ frying pan until hot.
9. Add your braided koeksisters into the hot oil – do not overcrowd the pot/pan.
10. Fry on both sides until they are golden-brown in color.
11. As you remove the fried koeksisters, immediately dip them into the chilled syrup for 10 seconds. (Important – Keep your syrup chilled between soakings. Return the syrup to the refrigerator to keep it cool.)