Introduction

Sour Cream Sugar Cookies are a beloved classic known for their thick, pillow-soft texture and rich, nostalgic flavor. Unlike crisp or thin sugar cookies, these are tender, cakey, and incredibly moist, staying soft for days after baking. The secret ingredient—sour cream—adds moisture and a gentle tang that enhances sweetness without overpowering it.

These cookies are often associated with old-fashioned bakeries, church gatherings, holidays, and family celebrations. They’re versatile enough to be enjoyed plain, dusted with sugar, or topped with a creamy frosting and festive sprinkles. If you’ve ever wondered how bakeries achieve those thick, ultra-soft sugar cookies, sour cream is the answer.

In this detailed guide, you’ll learn how to make perfect Sour Cream Sugar Cookies step by step, along with helpful tips, variations, and serving ideas to guarantee success every time.

Print

Ingredients:

For the Cookies

• 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups (300 g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240 g) full-fat sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Optional Frosting

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons milk or cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Food coloring and sprinkles (optional)

Preparation

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar together until light, fluffy, and pale. This step incorporates air and ensures soft cookies.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Flavoring

Mix in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract. Beat until fully combined.

Step 3: Add Sour Cream

Gently mix in the sour cream until smooth. The batter will appear thick and creamy.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 5: Combine Dough

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Cover and refrigerate the dough for 1–2 hours. Chilling makes the dough easier to handle and helps cookies hold their shape.

Step 7: Shape the Cookies

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Scoop dough into balls or roll out and cut shapes. Place cookies 2 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for 10–12 minutes, until cookies are set and tops appear slightly matte. Do not brown.

Step 9: Cool and Frost

Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting or decorating.

Variation

🎨 1. Frosted Sour Cream Sugar Cookies

Top with classic vanilla or cream cheese frosting.

🍋 2. Lemon Sour Cream Cookies

Add lemon zest and juice for a citrus twist.

🎄 3. Holiday Cut-Out Cookies

Roll and cut into shapes for Christmas or Easter.

🌈 4. Sprinkle Sugar Cookies

Add sprinkles before baking for color and crunch.

🍫 5. Chocolate Chip Sour Cream Cookies

Fold in mini chocolate chips for added sweetness.

COOKING Note :

• Do not overbake; cookies should remain pale.
• Full-fat sour cream yields the best texture.
• Chilling is essential for thick cookies.
• Dough will be soft—handle gently.

Serving Suggestions :

• Serve with milk, coffee, or tea.
• Add to holiday cookie platters.
• Package for gifting.
• Serve frosted for birthdays and parties.
• Pair with fresh fruit for balance.

Tips :

• Use room-temperature ingredients.
• Chill dough if it becomes sticky.
• Frost only completely cooled cookies.
• Store in airtight containers to maintain softness.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg for depth.

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cooking Time:

12 minutes

Total Time:

32 minutes (plus chilling)

Nutritional Information :

(Approximate per cookie)
Calories: ~180
Protein: ~2.5 g
Sodium: ~120 mg

FAQs

1. Why are my cookies flat?

The dough may not have been chilled long enough.

2. Can I freeze sour cream sugar cookies?

Yes, freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 2 months.

3. Can I use low-fat sour cream?

Full-fat is recommended for best texture.

4. How long do these cookies stay soft?

They stay soft for 3–4 days when stored properly.

5. Can I make the dough ahead?

Yes, refrigerate dough for up to 48 hours.

Conclusion

Sour Cream Sugar Cookies are the gold standard of soft, thick, old-fashioned cookies. Their tender crumb, rich flavor, and long-lasting softness make them a favorite for holidays, celebrations, and everyday baking. Whether enjoyed plain or frosted, these cookies offer comfort, nostalgia, and irresistible softness in every bite. Once you bake them, they’ll quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.