Sour Cream Twists
Sour Cream Twists are flaky, tender pastries with a hint of vanilla and a sweet sugar coating. Their twisted shape adds visual appeal, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or tea time. The rich combination of sour cream and buttery layers creates a delightful treat for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift flour and salt into a large bowl.
- Cut in shortening and butter as you would for pie crust.
- Dissolve yeast in warm water.
- Beat together the eggs.
- Combine the eggs with sour cream, yeast mixture, and vanilla extract.
- Add the wet ingredients to the flour mixture and mix well.
- Let the dough rise in the refrigerator for 2 hours.
- Sprinkle sugar lightly on a breadboard.
- Place the dough on the sugar and sprinkle sugar lightly on top.
- Roll out the dough to a 10 to 12-inch square, folding it into the center from either side.
- Repeat rolling and folding until all 3/4 cup of sugar has been used.
- Cut the dough into strips 1/2-inch wide and 4 inches long.
- Twist each strip 3 or 4 times and place them on an ungreased cookie sheet, several inches apart.
- Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of shortening and add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for extra warmth. If you prefer a lighter dough, you can substitute half of the sour cream with Greek yogurt. Make sure to keep the dough chilled during the rolling process to prevent it from becoming too sticky. For a chocolate twist, you can sprinkle some Dry Cocoa Mix between the layers.
Serving Suggestions
These Sour Cream Twists are delightful on their own but also pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a delicious brunch spread, serve them alongside a fruit platter or with California Dip for a savory complement. You can also enjoy them as a sweet treat with a drizzle of icing or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Sour Cream Twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warm and crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sour Cream Twists contains roughly 484 calories, with 12g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 588mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast for instant yeast in this recipe. Just remember to activate it in warm water for about 5-10 minutes before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will ensure proper rising and a better texture.
What can I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, it may be due to the yeast being inactive. Ensure that your warm water is not too hot, as this can kill the yeast. Alternatively, you can try letting the dough rise in a warmer area or increase the rising time to allow for better fermentation.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance, allow it to rise, and then shape the twists. Either freeze them for later baking or refrigerate the rolled dough for up to 24 hours. Bake them fresh when you're ready for a delicious treat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).