Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour Provides structure and base for the dough.
1/4 cup poppy seeds Adds texture and a subtle nutty flavor.
Zest of 1 lemon Delivers fresh citrus aroma and taste.
1 tsp ground cardamom Infuses warm, aromatic spice.
1/2 cup sugar Sweetens and balances flavors.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled Adds richness and flaky texture.
1/2 cup milk (or plant-based alternative) Moistens and binds ingredients.
1 tsp baking powder Leavens and lightens the dough.
Instant yeast Helps the dough rise reliably.
Whole milk Used for proofing the yeast.
Granulated sugar Additional for the dough and filling.
Eggs at room temperature Binds the dough.
Unsalted butter softened For both dough and filling.
Fresh lemon zest More for the filling.
Vanilla extract Adds depth to both dough and filling.
Cinnamon Enhances the dough’s flavor.
Salt Balances the sweetness.
Unsalted butter softened Specifically for the filling.
Granulated sugar For the filling mixture.
All-purpose flour A bit for the filling to make it spreadable.
Ground cardamom Key spice in the filling.
Vanilla extract In the filling for extra flavor.
Poppy seeds Incorporated into the filling.
Egg For the egg wash.
Milk Mixed with egg for the wash.
Pinch of sugar For the egg wash to aid browning.
Instructions
1-Preheat your oven: preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking tray with parchment paper to ensure even baking.
2-Proof the yeast first: by mixing instant yeast and sugar with warmed milk, letting it sit until frothy, about 5-10 minutes, as this guarantees a good rise.
3-Add the remaining sugar and softened unsalted butter to the yeast mixture: stirring until the butter breaks apart.
4-Incorporate beaten eggs, salt, cinnamon, and lemon zest: mixing until everything combines smoothly.
5-Gradually add all-purpose flour: about half a cup at a time, until the dough is smooth and slightly sticky but pulls away from the bowl; adjust with more flour if needed.
6-Knead the dough: by hand on a floured surface for about 2 minutes, then transfer it to a greased bowl.
7-Cover and let it rise: in a warm place for 1½ to 2 hours until doubled in size.
8-Prepare the filling: cream together softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and lemon zest until fluffy, then mix in vanilla extract, ground cardamom, poppy seeds, and enough all-purpose flour to make it spreadable.
9-Roll out the dough: spread the filling evenly, twist into shapes, and place on the tray.
10-Shape the twists: slicing the dough into strips and gently twisting them for the perfect form.
11-Bake as directed: allowing for overnight refrigeration if preparing ahead.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🧂 Use instant yeast for a reliable rise without long wait times.
🧈 Soften unsalted butter at room temperature for at least one hour for better dough and filling texture.
🌿 Freshly ground cardamom provides a stronger flavor; substitute with cinnamon and nutmeg or ginger if needed.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Rising and resting time: 120 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Proofing, Kneading, Baking
- Cuisine: American with Mediterranean influences
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 twist