Grandma Womack's Famous Butterhorn Treats

buttery, flaky treats have been a beloved family favorite for generations, bringing warmth and comfort to every bite. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with a cup of tea, they’re sure to become your new go-to snack.

Tips For Better Flavor

Use cold butter to achieve the flakiest layers.
Chill the dough before rolling to make it easier to handle.
Brush with egg wash for a beautiful golden crust.

Ingredients 0/7

2 cups unsalted butter, softened 2 cups all-purpose flour ¾ cup sour cream 1 large egg yolk ¾ cup white sugar ¾ cup chopped walnuts 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

What Makes This Recipe Unique

These buttery treats have a rich, flaky texture that melts in your mouth. They carry a nostalgic flavor that reminds many of warm family gatherings and homemade love. The perfect balance of sweet and savory makes them a timeless favorite.

Step 1

Cut the butter into the flour using your fingertips right in a large mixing bowl. Once that’s combined, add the sour cream and egg yolk, mixing everything together until you have a firm dough. Shape it into a big ball, cover it with plastic wrap or wax paper, and pop it in the fridge for at least two hours to chill completely.

Step 2

When you’re ready, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a couple of baking sheets with parchment paper. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar, walnuts, and cinnamon.

Step 3

Take the dough out of the fridge and divide it into three equal parts. Roll out one piece into a circle, then sprinkle a third of the sugar mixture evenly over it. Press the mixture gently into the dough so it sticks. Cut the dough into 12 wedges, like slicing a pie, and roll each wedge up from the wide end to the point to make little croissant shapes. Place them on your baking sheets and curl the tips towards you to create that classic horn shape. Repeat this with the remaining dough and sugar mixture.

Step 4

Bake your treats in batches for about 20 to 25 minutes, until they’re beautifully golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a minute before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!

people cooked this recipe

By Ryan Parker

Ryan shares simple recipes made for everyday cooking and easy family meals.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy snack. They also pair wonderfully with fresh fruit preserves or a light dusting of powdered sugar for added sweetness.

Best Storage Tips

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer freshness, keep them in the fridge and warm briefly before serving. You can also freeze them, wrapped tightly, and thaw when ready to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, but reduce or skip adding extra salt in the recipe since salted butter contains salt already.

How long should I chill the dough before baking?

Chill the dough for at least two hours to ensure it firms up and is easier to roll and shape.

Can I substitute walnuts with other nuts?

Absolutely, pecans or almonds work well as alternatives, giving a slightly different flavor.

What’s the best way to store these treats after baking?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Can I prepare the dough the day before baking?

Yes, you can make the dough and chill it overnight; just bring it back to a slightly cooler temperature before rolling.

How do I prevent the sugar and cinnamon mixture from falling off the dough?

Press the sugar mixture gently into the rolled dough to help it stick better during baking.

Can I use a different type of flour, like whole wheat?

You can try, but it may change the texture and tenderness; all-purpose flour gives the best results.

What if I don’t have sour cream on hand?

You can substitute sour cream with plain yogurt or crème fraîche in equal amounts.