Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies Recipe

There's something magical about biting into a soft, pillowy sugar cookie that melts in your mouth. Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies are the ultimate nostalgic treat, reminding us of holidays spent in the kitchen, dusted with flour, and filled with the sweet aroma of fresh-baked cookies.

This recipe is a family heirloom, passed down through generations, and it’s guaranteed to become your new favorite. With their perfectly tender texture and just the right amount of sweetness, these cookies are ideal for everything from holiday gatherings to everyday indulgences. Let’s dive into why these cookies are so special.

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

Get ready to experience a cookie like no other. These sour cream sugar cookies bring a delightful balance of softness, richness, and simplicity that sets them apart from ordinary sugar cookies.

First, the texture is truly unbeatable. Thanks to the sour cream, these cookies are wonderfully soft and moist without being overly crumbly. Each bite practically melts in your mouth.

Next, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for Christmas, a birthday, or just a weekday treat, these cookies are versatile and easily dressed up with icing, sprinkles, or left plain for a classic touch.

They’re also beginner-friendly. You don’t need fancy equipment or advanced baking skills to whip up these cookies. If you can mix, roll, and cut, you’ve got this recipe mastered.

Lastly, these cookies have a nostalgic charm. Every bite feels like a warm hug from Grandma, making them the perfect treat to share with loved ones or enjoy with a cup of tea on a quiet afternoon.

Ingredient Notes

The secret to the magic of these cookies lies in their simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating their signature taste and texture.

All-Purpose Flour is the base of this recipe, providing structure and just the right amount of chewiness. Be sure to measure it accurately for the best results.

Sour Cream is the star ingredient here, adding tangy richness and keeping the cookies soft and moist. Don’t skip this—it’s what makes Grandma’s recipe so unique.

Butter is used for flavor and to create a tender crumb. For best results, use unsalted butter at room temperature.

Sugar sweetens the cookies without overpowering their subtle tangy flavor. Regular granulated sugar works perfectly here.

Eggs bind the dough and contribute to the cookies’ light, airy texture. Let them come to room temperature before mixing for the smoothest dough.

Vanilla Extract enhances the flavor, giving the cookies their classic sweet aroma. A good-quality vanilla makes all the difference.

Optional: For special occasions, consider adding colored sprinkles or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. You’ll also need a rolling pin and cookie cutters to shape the dough.

How to Make Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies

Making these cookies is a breeze, and I’ll walk you through each step so you can recreate Grandma’s classic treat with ease.

Start by creaming the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth texture, so don’t rush it—let the mixer do its thing for a few minutes.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream. The sour cream might make the mixture look a little curdled, but that’s perfectly normal.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.

Chill the dough for at least an hour. Chilling is non-negotiable—it helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll and ensuring the cookies hold their shape during baking.

Preheat your oven to 375°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut shapes and transfer them to the baking sheets.

Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Keep a close eye—they should remain pale for the most part. Let them 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 perfect for make-ahead baking or gifting.

If you’re planning to enjoy them within a few days, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Add a piece of bread to the container to keep them extra soft.

For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Separate layers with wax paper to prevent sticking.

You can also freeze the dough. Shape it into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and place it in a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before rolling and baking.

To reheat or refresh frozen cookies, warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or let them come to room temperature.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly customizable, so feel free to make it your own! Here are some ideas to inspire you:

For a citrusy twist, add a teaspoon of grated lemon or orange zest to the dough.

If you love spice, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy flavor profile.

Decorate with royal icing, colorful sprinkles, or edible glitter to suit any occasion, from birthdays to weddings.

Make them dairy-free by substituting a plant-based butter and sour cream alternative.

If you prefer a firmer cookie, roll the dough thinner and bake for an additional minute or two.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with this recipe. Grandma would be proud to see her cookies enjoyed in so many new and creative ways.

Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re a tradition, a memory, and a gift to be shared. Bake a batch today and see why they’ve stood the test of time.

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