Swedish Sour Cream Twists

These delightful Swedish Sour Cream Twists (Layered Yeast Cookies) are a hidden gem in the world of cookies. They’re not just any cookies; they’re layered treasures that bring joy and warmth to any occasion. The magic begins with a unique twist on traditional dough, using sour cream to elevate both flavor and texture. Imagine biting into each twist and experiencing a crunchy outer layer, followed by a light and fluffy interior. They’re perfect to enjoy with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate, making them a fantastic addition to your holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons at home.

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

Making these cookies offers an exhilarating journey through mixing, rolling, and twisting dough into little masterpieces. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, you’ll find this recipe welcoming and fun. Your kitchen will be filled with mouthwatering scents as these cookies bake to golden perfection. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started on this sweet adventure!

Why This Recipe Works

Swedish Sour Cream Twists (Layered Yeast Cookies) strike a beautiful balance with their use of yeast. It lends a light texture without requiring the lengthy rising times often associated with yeast dough. This means you won’t spend ages waiting for your dough to puff up. Plus, sour cream contributes moisture and a unique flavor that truly sets these cookies apart from your everyday cookie. It adds a subtle tang that complements the sweetness perfectly.

Chilling the dough is another key factor. It makes the dough easier to handle, resulting in a well-structured twist. This extra step ensures that once baked, your twists have that oh-so-lovely flaky texture and firm shape. The combination of these factors guarantees delightful results every time you bake them.

Why You’ll Love This Swedish Sour Cream Twists (Layered Yeast Cookies)

There’s a lot to love about these cookies! First, they offer a delightful blend of sweetness balanced by that hint of tanginess from the sour cream. It turns a regular dessert into something special, making each bite a little celebration.

These cookies shine especially during holiday gatherings. They add a unique touch to any cookie platter, standing out amidst classic options. Beyond looks, they’re perfect for enjoying with drinks. Whether it’s a steaming cup of coffee or rich hot chocolate, these cookies make for a comforting treat that warms your heart.

Ingredient List

• 1 cup salted butter, softened (2 sticks)
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1 cup full-fat sour cream
• 2 large eggs
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar, for rolling out dough, plus more for twists
• ½ cup granulated sugar, for rolling twists in

Preparing Your Dough

Beat the Butter to Fluffy Perfection

Start with a large bowl or a stand mixer. Beat the softened butter until it’s light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it creates a rich base for your cookie dough.

Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour to the fluffy butter, mixing well until fully incorporated. Make sure there are no lumps; the smoother your mixture, the better the dough will come together.

Create the Sour Cream Mixture

Take a separate medium bowl and stir the yeast into the sour cream. This is where the magic begins—ensuring the yeast is dissolved properly helps with the dough’s rise later on.

Mix and Chill

Next, beat in the eggs, salt, and vanilla to the sour cream mixture. Once well combined, integrate this into the flour mixture. Your dough will be noticeably sticky. That’s perfectly fine! Cover the bowl and let it chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or even overnight for deeper flavor and easier handling.

Rolling and Shaping the Twists

Preheat and Prepare

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F. Line your baking sheets with silicone mats or parchment paper to prevent any sticking.

Prepare Your Workspace

Generously sprinkle 1 ¼ cups of sugar onto a clean work surface. This sugar will help create a beautiful sugary crust on your twists, making them sweet and crunchy.

Roll Out the Dough

Now for some fun! Scrape the chilled dough onto the sugared surface. Add more sugar on top, then use your hands to press it down. Roll it into a rectangle; aim for about a ¼ inch thickness.

Sugar It Up

Sprinkle the rolled dough with more sugar. This isn’t just for sweetness; it helps prevent sticking. Fold, roll, and repeat this process 3-4 times to create those lovely layers.

The Final Roll

For the last roll, sprinkle sugar one more time. Then fold the dough in thirds, like a letter, and roll it into a long strip. Aim for dimensions around 4-5 inches wide and 22-24 inches long to ensure even baking.

Cut and Twist

Now comes the twirling part! Using a pizza cutter, slice the dough into strips about ½ inch wide. Twist each strip gently and roll them in the reserved ½ cup of sugar before placing on your prepared sheets. Remember to leave space between each twist as they’ll spread while baking!

Baking Your Twists

Bake to Golden Perfection

Pop the trays into your preheated oven and bake for 17-20 minutes. You’re looking for a light golden brown on the edges. If you prefer a crisper texture, adjust the time slightly longer. You should yield around 36-40 twists, perfect for sharing—or enjoying all by yourself!

Serving Suggestions

When it’s time to serve, pair your Swedish Sour Cream Twists with freshly brewed hot chocolate or a cup of coffee. They also shine as a dessert alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a satisfying treat.

Tips for Success

• First, ensure your butter is at room temperature. This guarantees maximum fluffiness in the dough.
• Don’t skimp on the sugar while rolling out, as it keeps the dough from sticking to your surface.
• Chilling the dough is a crucial step; it makes handling and shaping much easier, leading to that lovely flaky structure.

Variations

Feel free to experiment! Adding spices like cinnamon or cardamom can create a warm spiced version of these twists. If you’re a chocolate lover, see how they turn out with chocolate chips mixed into the dough for a rich flavor twist.

Storage Tips

These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing unbaked twists. Just roll them in sugar before they go in the freezer, and bake them fresh when you’re ready for a treat!

FAQs

1. Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?
Yes, but adding a pinch of salt to the dough may enhance flavor.

2. How do I prevent the dough from sticking during the rolling process?
Using plenty of sugar on the surface should help, and a dusting on your rolling pin can help too.

3. Can I make these cookies in advance?
Definitely! Prepare the dough ahead of time and just bake them fresh when needed.

4. What should I serve with Swedish Sour Cream Twists?
These cookies pair excellently with coffee or hot chocolate.

5. Can I substitute the sour cream with something else?
Greek yogurt works, though it might slightly change the texture.

Enjoy creating these Swedish Sour Cream Twists—each bite brings a smile and warmth to your heart and home!

Print