Koeksisters

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1. 1Step 1: In the bowl of a food processor, combine flour, baking powder, salt and butter. Pulse until no chunks of butter are visible. Add the buttermilk and beaten egg and process until the dough just comes together. Turn out onto a lightly floured board and knead until the dough feels smooth and springs back a bit. Put the dough in an airtight container at room temperature and let rest for at least 2 hours, up to overnight.
2. 2Step 2: On a lightly floured board, roll the dough into a 13X9 rectangle. If your rectangle is wonky, roll it a bit larger and trim it to size. Cut into 2 1/2' x 1" rectangles. Make two cuts in each rectangle as shown above. Braid the three strips then pinch the ends closed. Fold back the top corners to make it uniform.
3. 3Step 3: Heat your oil in a deep fryer to 370 degrees. If using a pan, put about two inches of oil in your pan and heat to 370 degrees. Fry the koeksisters in batches of six for 30-45 seconds, turning them to get even browning on both sides. They should be golden brown. Drain them briefly on a paper towel then soak them in the syrup for 1 minute (if using). If you're doing the cinnamon-sugar method, drain them briefly on a paper towel then sprinkle and coat them with your cinnamon-sugar while still hot. Store in an airtight container.
4. 4Step 4: Heat sugar and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Add the remaining ingredients and let simmer over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes. Cool completely then strain. Refrigerate at least overnight, up to a few weeks.
5. 5Step 5: Mix the sugar and cinnamon then spread in a shallow dish before adding the hot koeksisters.