Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies Recipe

There's nothing quite like the sweet, nostalgic aroma of Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies baking in the oven. These soft, pillowy treats are a beloved family tradition, perfected over generations. With their delicate balance of sweetness and tang from sour cream, they’re the kind of cookie that melts in your mouth and warms your heart.

I remember making these cookies with my grandma every holiday season. She’d let me use her favorite cookie cutters, and we’d decorate them with colorful frosting and sprinkles. Even now, they’re the first thing I bake whenever I need a little comfort from the past. Let’s dive into what makes these cookies so special!

Why You’ll Love This Sour Cream Sugar Cookies Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels for these timeless cookies. They’re not just a treat – they’re a memory waiting to be made.

First and foremost, these cookies are incredibly soft and tender, thanks to the magic of sour cream. Unlike traditional sugar cookies, which can sometimes turn out crisp, these stay beautifully moist for days.

Secondly, this recipe is wonderfully forgiving and versatile. Whether you want to roll and cut them into festive shapes or drop them by the spoonful, they’re sure to bake up perfectly every time.

Plus, they’re perfect for decorating. Their neutral flavor pairs beautifully with everything from simple powdered sugar glazes to elaborate royal icing designs.

And of course, they’re nostalgic and family-friendly. These cookies bring people together, whether you're baking with kids or sharing them at a holiday gathering.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to these cookies lies in the careful balance of a few key ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what makes them so special.

• Sour Cream: This is the star of the recipe. It not only adds moisture but also gives the cookies their signature tangy flavor. Use full-fat sour cream for the best results.
• Butter: Always opt for unsalted butter so you can control the salt level in your dough. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
• Sugar: Regular granulated sugar is perfect for these cookies, providing just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the tang from the sour cream.
• Flour: All-purpose flour works best here. Be sure to measure it correctly by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife – too much flour can make the cookies dense.
• Vanilla Extract: A high-quality vanilla extract elevates the flavor of these cookies. If you want an extra layer of warmth, try adding a hint of almond extract as well.
• Eggs: Room-temperature eggs incorporate more smoothly into the dough, ensuring a soft and uniform texture.

Lastly, you’ll need a rolling pin and cookie cutters if you plan to make shaped cookies. If not, a spoon or cookie scoop will do the trick for drop cookies.

How to Make Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies

Making these cookies is as much about the process as it is about the end result. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating these delightful treats.

1. Prepare the Dough
   Start by creaming together butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Stir in the sour cream, mixing until smooth.Gradually incorporate the flour, baking soda, and salt, mixing until just combined. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky – that’s exactly what you want! Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour, or overnight for best results.
2. Roll and Cut (Optional)
   If you’re rolling out the dough, lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin. Roll the chilled dough to about ¼-inch thickness and use your favorite cookie cutters to create shapes. If you’re going for drop cookies, simply scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Bake
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the cookies about 2 inches apart on the baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Be careful not to overbake – you want them soft!
4. Cool and Decorate
   Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once completely cool, decorate as desired. Whether you choose a classic sugar glaze, royal icing, or sprinkles, these cookies are a perfect blank canvas.

These cookies take about 30 minutes of active prep time, plus chilling, and bake up beautifully in under 10 minutes per batch.

Storage Options

These cookies are just as delightful days later, making them perfect for baking ahead of time.

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Freezing Unbaked Dough: Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before rolling or scooping.
• Freezing Baked Cookies: Place cooled, undecorated cookies in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Simply thaw and decorate when ready to enjoy.

To reheat or refresh slightly stale cookies, pop them in the microwave for 5-10 seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven softness.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some ways to make it your own:

• Add Citrus Zest: A touch of lemon or orange zest in the dough adds a bright, zesty twist.
• Gluten-Free Version: Swap out all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Spiced Cookies: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, holiday-inspired flavor.
• Chocolate Chip Twist: Fold in mini chocolate chips for a fun, kid-friendly variation.
• Frosting Flavors: Experiment with flavored extracts in your icing, like almond, peppermint, or maple.

The possibilities are endless – don’t be afraid to get creative and make these cookies truly your own.

Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies are a recipe worth cherishing. Each bite is like a warm hug, filled with sweet memories and timeless flavor. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or just because, these cookies are sure to become a family favorite in your home too.

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