Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies Recipe

There's nothing like biting into a soft, pillowy sugar cookie that melts in your mouth. Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies are the perfect blend of nostalgia and comfort, with just the right amount of sweetness. Their delicate texture and tangy sour cream flavor make them a family favorite for holidays or any day.

I remember helping Grandma roll out the dough on her well-worn kitchen table, sprinkling flour everywhere as we cut out our favorite shapes. The aroma of these cookies baking in the oven still takes me back to those cherished moments. Let's dive into this timeless recipe.

Why You'll Love Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies

Get ready to fall head over heels for these cookies. They’re more than just a treat—they’re a connection to warm memories and cozy moments.

First, these cookies are incredibly soft and tender. Thanks to the sour cream, they stay moist and have a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s unbeatable. No dry, crumbly cookies here!

Second, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a birthday party, or just a weeknight dessert, these cookies fit the bill. Plus, they’re versatile enough to enjoy plain or frosted with your favorite icing.

What makes them truly special is their balance of flavors. The slight tang from the sour cream pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the dough, creating a cookie that’s never too sweet.

Finally, they’re beginner-friendly. Even if you’re not an experienced baker, this recipe is simple to follow and nearly foolproof. You’ll be amazed at how professional your cookies look and taste.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to these cookies lies in their simple, yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

• Flour: All-purpose flour forms the base of these cookies. Make sure to measure it correctly by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter, softened to room temperature. This ensures a creamy dough and helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar gives these cookies their classic sweetness, while a little extra in the rolling process adds a slight crunch to the edges.
• Eggs: Large eggs provide structure and help bind the ingredients together. They also add richness to the dough.
• Sour Cream: The star ingredient! Sour cream adds moisture and a subtle tang that makes these cookies so unique.
• Vanilla Extract: A good-quality vanilla extract enhances the flavor and brings out the sweetness of the dough.
• Baking Soda and Baking Powder: These leavening agents ensure the cookies rise perfectly and stay soft.

No special equipment is required for this recipe—just your favorite rolling pin, cookie cutters, and a sturdy baking sheet.

How To Make Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies

Making these cookies is as delightful as eating them. The process is straightforward and perfect for baking with family or friends.

Start by creaming together the butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy. This step is key to ensuring the cookies have a soft texture, so don’t rush it—take about 2-3 minutes.

Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract, blending until smooth. The mixture will look creamy and luscious at this stage.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.

Chill the dough for at least an hour. This step makes it easier to roll out and helps the cookies keep their shape in the oven.

Once chilled, preheat your oven to 375°F. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness, and cut out your favorite shapes using cookie cutters. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each cookie.

Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Storage Options

These cookies are as convenient to store as they are delicious to eat.

For short-term storage, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Add a slice of bread to the container to maintain their softness.

If you’d like to store them longer, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour.

You can also freeze the unbaked dough. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before rolling and baking as usual.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies is their versatility. Here are a few ways to customize the recipe to suit your tastes.

• Add a Citrus Twist: Mix in a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Experiment with Extracts: Swap out the vanilla extract for almond or peppermint extract to give the cookies a new dimension.
• Sprinkles and Decorations: For a festive touch, decorate the cookies with sprinkles, colored sugar, or royal icing.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix. Be sure to check the package for proper measurements and ratios.
• Healthier Alternative: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a slightly lighter cookie with the same tangy flavor.

Baking is all about creativity, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make these cookies your own!

Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re a slice of love and tradition in every bite. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or days later with a cup of tea, these cookies are sure to bring smiles to everyone who tries them.

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