Lemon and Lavender Koeksisters

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
• 2/3 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon dried lavender flowers
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Rub in the chilled butter until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, lemon zest, and lavender flowers. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. The dough will be sticky.
3. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for a few minutes until smooth. Cover with plastic wrap and let rest for 30 minutes.
4. Roll the dough out into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Cut into strips about 1/2 inch wide.
5. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F. Fry the strips of dough, a few at a time, until golden brown, turning occasionally. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
6. In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, honey, and lemon zest. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Dip the koeksisters in the syrup while still warm, turning to coat thoroughly. Let cool on a wire rack.
8. Serve the koeksisters at room temperature or chilled, with the syrup drizzled over the top.

Enjoy your delicious and fragrant Lemon and Lavender Koeksisters!