Twists
Twists are delightful, flaky pastries with a sweet cinnamon-sugar filling and nutty crunch, perfect for breakfast or a treat with coffee. Their inviting aroma and satisfying texture make them an excellent choice for brunch gatherings or weekend indulgence, appealing to bakers of all skill levels.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine shortening, 1/2 cup sugar, and salt in a bowl.
- Pour milk over the mixture and let stand until lukewarm.
- Dissolve yeast in 1/4 cup lukewarm water.
- Mix the yeast with the other mixture.
- Blend in 1 1/2 cups flour and beat until smooth.
- Cover and let set for 15 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.
- Mix in the remaining flour and let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in bulk.
- Dip out rounded spoonfuls of dough and roll into a mixture of nuts, sugar, and cinnamon.
- Stretch into long twisted pieces and place on a greased cookie sheet.
- Let rise for 15 minutes.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of shortening. You can also substitute whole milk for almond milk for a dairy-free version. If you want a sweeter twist, add a tablespoon of vanilla extract to the dough. Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, incorporate chopped nuts into the dough or as a topping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious twists warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of icing for extra sweetness. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or as a snack. For a delightful dessert, consider serving alongside Moist Cornbread or Caramel Apple Walnut Squares.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Twists contains roughly 541 calories, with 7g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is a good source of calcium (16% of the Daily Value), protein (13% of the Daily Value), and iron (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 948mg per serving (41% 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 instant yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast in this recipe. Simply mix it directly with the flour without dissolving it in water first. This can save you some time, and the results will still be delicious.
What if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it may be due to inactive yeast or an unsuitable temperature. Ensure the yeast is fresh and that the dough is placed in a warm, draft-free area. You can also try warming the oven slightly and placing the dough inside to encourage rising.
Can I add fillings to the twists?
Absolutely! Feel free to fill the twists with chocolate chips, fruit preserves, or nut butters before twisting them. Just ensure the filling is not too wet to prevent the dough from becoming soggy during baking.
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).