Name: Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ cup sour cream

There's nothing quite like the nostalgic scent of Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies baking in the oven. These soft, pillowy cookies, with their subtle tang of sour cream and perfectly balanced sweetness, are a treat that takes me back to cozy afternoons in Grandma’s kitchen.

I remember helping her roll out the dough and sneaking bites of the creamy batter when she wasn’t looking. Now, I’m thrilled to share this timeless family recipe with you. These cookies are perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simply when you’re craving something classic and comforting. Let’s dive in and bring this cherished tradition to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with these cookies that feel like a warm hug in dessert form. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also incredibly simple to make.

First, these cookies are soft and fluffy, thanks to the addition of sour cream, which keeps the dough tender and moist. They’re the perfect balance of texture, melting in your mouth with every bite.

They’re also wonderfully versatile. You can enjoy them plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or dressed up with your favorite frosting and sprinkles. They’re great for cookie exchanges, bake sales, or a fun family baking project.

And let’s not forget how forgiving this recipe is. Even novice bakers will find it easy to follow, with results that look and taste like they came straight from a bakery.

Finally, they store beautifully. You can make them ahead of time and enjoy them over several days, which is perfect for busy holiday seasons.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these cookies lies in their simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one brings something special to the table, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

All-purpose flour forms the base of the dough. It provides the structure needed to hold these cookies together while keeping them soft and light. Make sure to measure it correctly for the best results.

Sour cream is the star ingredient, lending a slight tang that balances the sweetness and helps create that wonderfully tender crumb. Full-fat sour cream works best, but you can use reduced-fat if needed.

Butter adds richness and a subtle, buttery flavor. Be sure to use unsalted butter so you can control the salt content in the recipe.

Granulated sugar sweetens the cookies just enough without overpowering the sour cream’s delicate tang. The result is a perfectly balanced flavor.

Eggs act as a binder, giving the dough structure and helping the cookies rise. Make sure they’re at room temperature for smooth mixing.

A touch of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, giving these cookies that classic bakery-style taste. Use pure vanilla extract for the best results.

While no special equipment is required, having a rolling pin and cookie cutters on hand will make shaping the cookies easier and more fun.

How To Make This Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies Recipe

Making these cookies is as straightforward as can be, but the process is just as enjoyable as the results.

Start by creaming your butter and sugar together in a large mixing bowl. This step is crucial for achieving that light and fluffy texture. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for best results.

Next, mix in the eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract until fully combined. At this stage, the batter will look creamy and luscious.

Gradually add the dry ingredients, including flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix just until combined, being careful not to overwork the dough, which could make the cookies tough.

Once the dough is ready, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour. Chilling the dough makes it easier to roll out and helps the cookies hold their shape.

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thickness and cut it into your desired shapes.

Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Be careful not to overbake, as these cookies are meant to stay soft.

Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before decorating or serving.

Storage Options

These cookies are a dream to store, making them perfect for holiday prep or busy weeks when you want a treat on hand.

For short-term storage, keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They’ll stay soft and delicious, especially if you layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

If you want to store them longer, these cookies freeze beautifully. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to refresh their soft texture. If they’re frosted, skip the microwave to preserve the decoration.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is. Here are a few ideas to make these cookies your own:

For a festive touch, mix a teaspoon of almond extract into the dough for a subtle, nutty flavor. It pairs beautifully with the vanilla.

If you love citrus, try adding a tablespoon of lemon or orange zest for a bright, zippy twist.

Want to make them gluten-free? Use a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour. The cookies will still turn out tender and delicious.

For a dairy-free version, swap the butter with a plant-based alternative and use coconut cream instead of sour cream. The flavor will be slightly different but equally delightful.

Finally, play around with decorations. Whether you opt for a simple powdered sugar dusting or elaborate frosting designs, the possibilities are endless.

Conclusion