Welcome to a delightful journey where tradition meets a creamy twist. This nut roll recipe, enriched with sour cream, promises a tender dough and a rich, nutty filling that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
Why This Recipe Works
- The sour cream in the dough ensures a moist, tender texture that’s hard to resist.
- A perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness makes every bite a delightful experience.
- Easy-to-follow steps guarantee success even for baking novices.
- The recipe allows for customization, so you can tweak it to your heart’s content.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for holidays, gatherings, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup finely chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup milk
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the softened butter, granulated sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and sour cream until smooth. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms. Tip: If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it.
Make the Nut Filling
In a medium bowl, mix the chopped walnuts, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add the milk to moisten the mixture, ensuring it’s spreadable but not too wet. This filling will bring a rich, nutty flavor and a slight crunch to your nut rolls.
Roll and Fill the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the nut filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll the dough into a log, starting from the long side. Tip: Use a pastry brush to remove excess flour from the dough before adding the filling for a cleaner roll.
Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the rolled dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the roll is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. Let it cool slightly before slicing to allow the filling to set.
Serve and Enjoy
Slice the nut roll into 1-inch pieces and serve warm or at room temperature. This treat pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea, making it perfect for any time of the day.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra glossy finish, brush the top of the nut roll with a beaten egg before baking. If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought dough, but homemade always tastes better. Experiment with different nuts like pecans or almonds for a unique twist. Always let the nut roll cool before slicing to prevent the filling from oozing out. For a festive touch, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Nut Roll: Add cocoa powder to the dough and chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolatey version.
- Fruit and Nut Roll: Mix in dried fruits like raisins or apricots with the nuts for a fruity twist.
- Spiced Nut Roll: Enhance the filling with spices like nutmeg or allspice for extra warmth.
- Savory Nut Roll: Skip the sugar in the filling and add herbs and cheese for a savory option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out to prevent cracking.
How do I store leftover nut roll?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze the slices for up to 3 months.
Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes, feel free to substitute walnuts with your favorite nuts. Pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts would work beautifully in this recipe.
Summary
This nut roll recipe with sour cream is a delightful twist on a classic, offering a tender dough and a rich, nutty filling. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.