There's something truly magical about the smell of Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies baking in the oven. These soft, pillowy treats are perfectly sweet with a hint of tang from the sour cream, making them irresistible for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re preparing them for the holidays, a family gathering, or just a cozy afternoon, they never fail to bring back fond memories.

This recipe has been passed down through generations in my family, and every bite feels like a warm hug from Grandma herself. Best of all, these cookies are easy to make and can be decorated for any occasion. Let’s dive into the details and discover what makes this recipe so special!

Why You’ll Love This Sour Cream Sugar Cookies Recipe

Get ready to add a timeless classic to your baking repertoire. Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies are more than just cookies – they’re a family tradition wrapped in sugar and love.

First, these cookies are incredibly soft and fluffy. Unlike the crisp edges of standard sugar cookies, the sour cream adds a moist, tender crumb that melts in your mouth with every bite.

They’re also a dream to decorate. Whether you prefer a simple sprinkle of sugar or intricate icing designs, the soft yet sturdy surface makes these cookies perfect for customization.

Worried about time? Don’t be! This recipe is easy to follow and foolproof, even for beginner bakers. With basic pantry staples and a few key tips, you’ll have delicious cookies in no time.

Finally, these cookies are crowd-pleasers. Their classic flavor and versatility make them a hit at parties, potlucks, and even casual weeknight treats.

So, preheat your oven and let’s get started with the ingredients!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this recipe lies in its simple ingredients, each carefully chosen to create the perfect cookie. Let’s take a closer look at what makes these cookies so special.

Sour Cream: The secret to these cookies’ tender texture! Sour cream adds a slight tang and moisture, ensuring every bite is soft and flavorful. Full-fat sour cream works best for the richest results.
Butter: For that classic buttery flavor, use unsalted butter at room temperature. It helps create a light, fluffy dough.
Granulated Sugar: This provides the perfect sweetness to complement the tang of the sour cream.
Eggs: Essential for structure and richness. Let them come to room temperature for easier mixing.
All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the cookies. Be sure to measure accurately for the best results – too much flour can make the dough heavy.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
Baking Soda and Baking Powder: A combination of these leavening agents ensures the cookies rise beautifully without becoming overly dense.

No special equipment is needed, though a stand mixer or hand mixer makes creaming the butter and sugar a breeze.

How to Make Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies

Creating these cookies is easier than you might think! With just a few steps, you’ll have a batch of homemade cookies that taste like they came straight from Grandma’s kitchen.

Cream the Butter and Sugar: Start by beating the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the dough, creating that soft texture we love.
Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the sour cream and vanilla extract. The mixture may look slightly curdled – don’t worry, that’s normal!
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This makes it easier to handle and helps the cookies hold their shape during baking.
Roll and Cut: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters to create shapes.
Bake to Perfection: Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes. Look for edges that are just set – you don’t want them to brown. Let them cool completely before decorating.

From start to finish, you’ll need about 2 hours, including chilling time. Trust me, the result is worth every minute!

Storage Options

Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies store beautifully, so you can enjoy them for days to come.

Room Temperature: Store undecorated cookies in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place to maintain their freshness.
Refrigeration: If you’ve decorated your cookies with frosting, store them in the fridge to keep the icing intact. They’ll last up to 1 week.
Freezing: These cookies freeze wonderfully. Place them in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Dough Storage: If you want to bake them fresh, the dough can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before rolling out and baking.

Reheat stored cookies in the microwave for a few seconds if you want them warm and soft!

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some fun ways to switch it up:

Add a Citrus Twist: Swap the vanilla extract for lemon or orange zest for a bright, zesty flavor.
Chocolate Lovers’ Delight: Mix in mini chocolate chips or dip the cooled cookies in melted chocolate for a decadent treat.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced version perfect for fall.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Dairy-Free Alternative: Use a plant-based butter and coconut cream in place of sour cream for a dairy-free version.

Experimenting with different flavors and decorations can make these cookies uniquely yours – just like Grandma would want

There’s a reason Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies have stood the test of time. They’re easy to make, endlessly versatile, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re carrying on a family tradition or starting your own, these cookies are sure to become a beloved favorite in your home. Happy baking!