What is the South African syrup-filled doughnut called a koeksister?

The South African syrup-filled doughnut is called a koeksister.

A traditional koeksister is made from a sweet dough that is shaped, fried, and immersed in cold syrup. The classic Cape Malay-influenced version is often braided or twisted, while another version associated with Afrikaner cooking is plaited before frying. The syrup gives the pastry its characteristic sticky, glossy finish.

Koeksisters are commonly served as a sweet snack or tea-time treat. Their name is generally linked to Afrikaans and Dutch words associated with cake or pastry, although explanations of the exact origin vary. The Cape Malay version often includes spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, or ginger and has a softer, more cake-like texture.

Koeksisters are sometimes confused with vetkoek, but vetkoek is an unsweetened fried bread that is commonly split and filled. A koeksister is defined by its sweet fried dough and syrup coating.