Make the Syrup:

In a pot, combine 2 cups sugar and 1 1/2 cups water. Stir constantly over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.

Increase the heat and bring the syrup to a boil. Let it boil for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Once the syrup has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in 3-4 drops of lemon juice. Let it cool.

Make the Dough:

In a container, combine 3 1/2 cups flour, 2 cups water, 1 packet of instant yeast, 1 teaspoon sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt. Stir the mixture with a mixer until everything is well combined.

The dough should be slightly thicker than cake batter, but not too thick.

If you don’t have a mixer, you can mix by hand. Once the dough reaches a medium consistency, cover it with plastic wrap and let it rise for about 1 hour.

Fry the Loukoumades:

Fill a medium pot with oil, about halfway, and heat it up for deep frying.

Oil a spoon to scoop the dough. Using the oiled spoon, scoop some dough and drop it into the hot oil (you can use your left hand for the dough and right hand for the spoon).

Fry the loukoumades, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Once fried, remove them from the oil and immediately place them in the cooled syrup. Let them soak for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to coat them well.

Serve:

Transfer the syrup-soaked loukoumades to a serving plate.

Optionally, pour any remaining syrup over the loukoumades and garnish with cinnamon before serving.