WALNUT KOEKSISTER BITES

MAKES: 36 BITES / PREPARATION: 30 MINS / COOKING: 30 MINS / CHILLING: 3 HOURS / STANDING: 30 MINS

These are always popular. The koeksister bites can be packaged in sealed bags and frozen for up to 2 months. SYRUP 500ml (2c) sugar 250ml (1c) water juice of 1 lemon 1 cinnamon stick 5ml (1t) golden syrup 2,5ml (½t) cream of tartar a pinch of salt DOUGH 500ml (2c) cake flour 15ml (1T) baking powder 5ml (1t) ground cinnamon 2,5ml (½t) salt 45ml (3T) cold butter 100g walnuts, chopped 125ml (½c) milk 10ml (2t) caramel or vanilla essence TO FINISH

oil, for deep-frying

1 Syrup Put all the ingredients in a pot. Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously until all the sugar has dissolved. Simmer slowly for 10 minutes, remove from the heat and leave to cool completely. Transfer the syrup into a bowl or jug and chill for 2-3 hours in the fridge.

2 Dough Put the flour, baking powder, cinnamon and salt in a large mixing bowl. Mix well, then use your fingertips to rub the butter into the mixture. Mix in the nuts.

3 Whisk the milk and flavouring together, then add to the flour mixture. Mix well until a soft dough forms – add a little milk if it’s too dry.

4 Transfer the dough to a clean surface and lightly knead for 5 minutes until elastic. Cover and leave to rest for 30 minutes.

5 To finish Roll the dough into walnut-sized balls. Heat enough oil for deep-frying and fry the balls in batches until golden brown, crispy and cooked. Drain on paper towel and dunk in the syrup. Leave to soak for 2 minutes, then remove and let cool completely. Store in an airtight container.