Recipe for Sweet Dough Braids!

I wanted to post this delicious and simple recipe to all you viewers out there. My husband is not a fan of really sweet desserts so this is a perfect treat with a warm cup of tea that will not override your sweet tooth. They are a hit at parties and tea get-togethers. I hope you will enjoy!

Prep time: 30-45 minutes depending on experience with braids.  Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes

                  Yields approximately 24 cookies.

You will need:

For the dough:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick of butter)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 4 tablespoons sour cream (any kind, I use regular not light)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 1/2 cup flour

For the top decor:

• The yolk of two eggs in a separate bowl to rub on the braids (discard the egg white)
• Any kinds of topping you choose, I use crushed walnuts, cinnamon, sugar, and poppy seeds.

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°.
2. Mix the dough ingredients in the order they are written, adding 1/2 a cup flour each time you stir. I use my mixing utensil to mix but you can use an electronic mixer if you choose, just not for the flour part.
3. Roll out the dough on the counter top in a flat ball. Use more flour to cover the counter top and the dough ball as needed.
4. Cut the dough into four equal pieces and roll the pieces into round log shapes. Cut them into one inch sections. (This part can be hard to explain so I added pictures)















5. Here comes the hardest part of the recipe, though it is quite easy once you get the hang of it. With your fingers, press the one inch pieces into a flat oval shaped design. Cut two slits in the oval shape two make three even pieces. Make sure to leave some room at the top so it can be connected.

6. Braid the three pieces together and attach them at the end by pressing tightly. Since the dough will be soft, try to braid without picking up the whole piece but by overlapping each one on the counter top. 

7. With a pastry brush, rub the egg yolk on top on the braids very lightly. This will help keep your decor on the braids and will give them a nice golden color. Add your toppings!
8.  Bake in the oven for 18 to 15 minutes or until they are golden brown. Enjoy!