Sour Cream Sugar Cookies

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These Sour Cream Sugar Cookies are soft, tender, and absolutely irresistible! The sour cream adds a subtle tang and keeps the cookies moist, while the creamy frosting takes them to the next level. Perfect for holidays, parties, or just because, these cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone!

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
⅔ cup sour cream
½ tsp baking soda
3 tsp baking powder
4 cups all-purpose flour (fluffed and leveled)

For the Frosting:

½ cup salted butter, softened
2 ½ cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp milk (adjust as needed)
Optional: Food coloring for frosting

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and sugar on high until creamy. Add the eggs, vanilla, and sour cream, and beat until smooth.

Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients
Add the baking soda, baking powder, and flour. Mix on low until just combined. The dough will be soft, almost like cake batter.

Step 3: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 4: Scoop and Bake
Drop heaping tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2-3 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are set.

Step 5: Cool
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 6: Make the Frosting
In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk, and beat until creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar (to thicken) or milk (to thin). Add food coloring if desired.

Step 7: Frost and Enjoy
Spread the frosting onto the cooled cookies and let it set before serving.

Tips for the Best Sour Cream Sugar Cookies

Use room temperature ingredients. This ensures a smooth and even dough.

Don’t overmix the dough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to avoid tough cookies.
Fluff and level the flour. This prevents the cookies from being too dense.
Customize the frosting. Add sprinkles, edible glitter, or a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra flair.

Variations

Lemon Sour Cream Cookies
Add 1 tbsp lemon zest to the dough and replace the vanilla extract in the frosting with lemon juice for a citrusy twist.

Chocolate Sour Cream Cookies
Replace ½ cup of flour with ½ cup cocoa powder for a chocolate version. Frost with chocolate buttercream.

Spiced Sour Cream Cookies
Add 1 tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp nutmeg, and ¼ tsp cloves to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.

How to Store These Cookies

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute, but the cookies may be slightly less tender.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! The dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking. Let it come to room temperature before scooping.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Double the ingredients and use multiple baking sheets. Adjust the baking time as needed.

Final Thoughts: The Perfect Soft Sugar Cookies!

These Sour Cream Sugar Cookies are a dream come true for cookie lovers. They’re soft, tender, and perfectly sweet—ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a party, or just because, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around!

If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out! Leave a review, snap a photo, and share it on Pinterest. I’d love to see your delicious creations!