Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of sugar cookies baking in the oven, especially when it’s Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies. These soft, pillowy cookies with a hint of tang are a nostalgic treat that brings back memories of family gatherings and holiday cheer.

this Recipe

I remember helping my grandma in the kitchen as a child, carefully rolling out the dough and sneaking little tastes of the creamy batter. This recipe, passed down through generations, is simple yet magical—perfect for making any day feel extra special. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how to make it a cherished part of your kitchen traditions.

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

Get ready to fall head over heels for these cookies. They’re more than just a sweet treat—they’re a slice of homemade comfort.

First, the texture is unbeatable. Thanks to the addition of sour cream, these cookies are incredibly soft and tender. They practically melt in your mouth, making them irresistible to kids and adults alike.

Second, they’re versatile. You can enjoy them plain, with a sprinkle of sugar, or decorate them with frosting for special occasions. Whether it’s Christmas, a birthday party, or a simple weekday bake, they adapt beautifully.

Lastly, they’re so easy to make. Even if you’re not a seasoned baker, this recipe is forgiving and straightforward. The dough comes together quickly, and the rolling process is a fun activity to share with kids.

Ready to give them a try? Let’s talk ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these cookies lies in the simple yet thoughtful combination of ingredients. Each plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of sweetness and softness.

All-Purpose Flour
This is the foundation of the dough. Be sure to measure your flour accurately—too much can result in dense cookies, while too little can make them too sticky to handle.

Sour Cream
The star ingredient! Sour cream not only adds moisture but also imparts a subtle tang that sets these cookies apart from the rest. Don’t skip this—full-fat sour cream works best for the perfect texture.

Butter
Unsalted butter is ideal so you can control the salt level in the recipe. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth dough.

Sugar
Granulated sugar sweetens the cookies just right without overpowering the delicate flavor. If you like a hint of crunch, sprinkle a little on top before baking.

Eggs
Eggs bind the dough and add richness. Use large eggs for the best consistency.

Vanilla Extract
A splash of pure vanilla enhances the flavor and gives these cookies that classic homemade taste.

No special equipment is needed—just a rolling pin, cookie cutters, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

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

Creating these delightful cookies is a breeze. Let me guide you through each step.

Start by creaming butter and sugar together in a large mixing bowl. Beat them until the mixture is light and fluffy—this helps create airy, soft cookies. Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Mix until just combined, taking care not to overmix, which can make the cookies tough.

Chill the dough for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial for easier rolling and cutting and ensures the cookies hold their shape during baking.

Once chilled, preheat your oven to 375°F. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters to create shapes, and place them on a baking sheet.

Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn 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 store beautifully, making them a great option for make-ahead baking.

For short-term storage, place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days, though they rarely last that long in our house!

If you’d like to keep them longer, freeze them. Layer the cookies between sheets of wax or parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. To enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in a low oven.

When reheating, avoid microwaving, as it can make them too soft. A quick toast in a 300°F oven will restore their texture beautifully.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so don’t be afraid to get creative.

For a festive touch, add sprinkles to the dough or on top of frosted cookies. Kids especially love this version for holiday baking.

If you’re feeling adventurous, mix in a teaspoon of almond extract instead of vanilla. It gives the cookies a subtle nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sour cream.

Looking for a healthier twist? Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. The cookies will have a slightly nuttier flavor and a heartier texture.

Want to make them gluten-free? Use a one-to-one gluten-free baking flour. The texture may be slightly different, but they’ll still taste amazing.

Finally, don’t forget you can experiment with frosting. A classic buttercream or royal icing works beautifully for decorating, and you can customize the colors and designs for any occasion.

These Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies are a true treasure—simple, delicious, and filled with love. Whether you bake them for a special event or just because, they’re sure to become a family favorite in your home, just like they are in ours. Happy baking!

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