Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies Recipe

There's nothing quite like biting into a soft, melt-in-your-mouth sugar cookie, especially when it's Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies. These delightful treats have the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, thanks to the secret ingredient: sour cream.

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I remember helping Grandma roll out these cookies in her cozy kitchen, flour dusting every surface as we laughed and chatted. Now, they’ve become a family tradition that I pass down to my kids. Let’s dive into what makes these cookies so irresistible.

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

Get ready to discover your next go-to cookie recipe. These sour cream sugar cookies are classic, comforting, and incredibly easy to make.

First off, these cookies are impossibly soft and tender. The sour cream adds a unique moistness that keeps them from ever feeling dry, making them perfect for a midday snack or dessert.

They’re also wonderfully versatile. Enjoy them plain, with a sprinkle of sugar, or top them with your favorite frosting for a decorative touch.

The dough is forgiving and easy to handle, so it’s ideal for baking with kids. Whether you’re cutting them into fun shapes or just rolling them into rounds, this recipe is an opportunity for creativity.

And did I mention they’re nostalgic? One bite, and you’ll be transported to a simpler time, filled with warm kitchens and the joy of homemade treats.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies lies in the simplicity of the ingredients. Each one contributes to the cookies' signature flavor and texture.

All-purpose flour is the base for these cookies. Make sure to measure it correctly to avoid overly dense dough. Lightly spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for the best results.

Butter brings the richness you expect in a sugar cookie. Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dough, and let it soften at room temperature for easy mixing.

The magic ingredient is sour cream. It not only adds a slight tangy flavor but also keeps the cookies incredibly soft and tender. Full-fat sour cream works best here, though light sour cream can be used if you’re looking for a slightly lower-fat option.

Granulated sugar sweetens the cookies to perfection. For a bit of extra texture, you can sprinkle some on top before baking.

Lastly, don’t forget pure vanilla extract. A high-quality vanilla adds a warm, inviting aroma and flavor that brings everything together.

For special equipment, a rolling pin and cookie cutters are essential if you plan to make shaped cookies. A stand mixer or handheld mixer also makes creaming the butter and sugar a breeze.

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

Creating these cookies is as simple as it is satisfying. Let me walk you through the process step by step.

Start by creaming your butter and sugar together in a large bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a tender texture, so take your time. Add in the eggs, one at a time, and then mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract until everything is smooth.

In a separate bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it feels too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until you reach the right consistency.

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. This step helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll out and cut.

Once chilled, roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters to create shapes, or simply cut the dough into circles with a glass.

Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 8-10 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; you want the edges to be just barely golden.

Let the cookies cool completely before decorating with frosting or enjoying as-is.

Storage Options

These cookies store beautifully, making them perfect for baking ahead or enjoying over several days.

For short-term storage, place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delicious for up to 5 days.

If you want to freeze them, arrange the baked and cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months and can be thawed at room temperature.

Planning to freeze the dough instead? Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before rolling and baking.

To reheat cookies for that fresh-from-the-oven feel, pop them in the microwave for 5-10 seconds or in a low-temperature oven for a few minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your heart's content.

For a festive touch, add a teaspoon of almond extract alongside the vanilla for a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with holiday sprinkles.

Looking for a zesty twist? Mix in the zest of a lemon or orange to brighten the flavor profile.

To make these cookies dairy-free, swap the butter with plant-based butter and the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt or almond milk yogurt.

If you’re feeling adventurous, fold in a handful of mini chocolate chips or finely chopped nuts to the dough before chilling.

Finally, consider experimenting with natural food colorings or edible decorations to make these cookies stand out for any occasion.

Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies are more than just a treat – they’re a warm hug in cookie form. Try them out today, and create a new tradition your family will treasure!

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