Name: Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; ½ cup sour cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

There's nothing like the soft, pillowy texture of Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies to bring back childhood memories. These cookies have just the right amount of sweetness, balanced by a subtle tang from the sour cream, making them utterly irresistible. Perfect for the holidays, family gatherings, or just a sweet treat on a quiet afternoon, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

I first discovered the charm of these cookies in my grandmother's kitchen, where the air always smelled like butter and vanilla. Her secret was in the sour cream—it added moisture and a touch of tartness that made every bite unforgettable. Let me show you how to recreate this nostalgic classic in your own kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Sour Cream Sugar Cookie Recipe

Get ready to discover your new go-to cookie recipe! These sour cream sugar cookies are as comforting as they are delicious, and here's why they'll win you over:

First off, these cookies are delightfully soft and fluffy. Unlike traditional sugar cookies that can be crisp, these have a melt-in-your-mouth texture that keeps you coming back for more.

They're incredibly easy to make. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is forgiving and simple, with no complicated steps or fancy equipment required.

These cookies are also wonderfully versatile. You can enjoy them plain, sprinkle them with sugar, or frost them for a festive twist. They adapt beautifully to any occasion.

Lastly, they keep well, so you can bake a batch ahead of time. Their flavor deepens as they rest, making them just as delicious—if not better—the next day.

Ready to get baking? Let’s dive into the ingredients that make these cookies so special.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies lies in their simple, yet perfectly balanced ingredients. Each one plays a role in achieving that soft, tender texture and delicate flavor.

All-Purpose Flour: The base of the cookie, flour provides structure. For the fluffiest results, make sure to measure it accurately—scooping directly from the bag can lead to too much flour.

Sour Cream: The star ingredient! Sour cream adds moisture and a slight tang that elevates the flavor of these cookies. Use full-fat sour cream for the best texture.

Unsalted Butter: Butter provides richness and flavor. Let it soften at room temperature so it creams easily with the sugar.

Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cookies just enough to make them indulgent without being overpowering.

Eggs: Eggs bind the dough and add a touch of richness. Use room-temperature eggs for a smoother dough.

Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the sweetness and adds a warm, inviting aroma.

Baking Soda and Baking Powder: These leavening agents help the cookies puff up beautifully. Double-check that yours are fresh for the best results.

If you want perfectly uniform cookies, you may also want to have a cookie scoop on hand. A rolling pin and cookie cutters are optional if you’d like to make shaped cookies.

How To Make Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies

Making these cookies is as easy as it is rewarding. With a few simple steps, you'll have a batch of soft, fluffy cookies ready to enjoy.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures the cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.

In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup unsalted butter and 1 ½ cups granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating that tender texture, so don’t rush it.

Add 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat until well combined. Then, stir in 1 cup of sour cream, blending it thoroughly for a smooth batter.

In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon 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.

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie. For a festive touch, sprinkle the tops with sugar before baking.

Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Avoid overbaking; these cookies are meant to be soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

From start to finish, these cookies take about 30 minutes to prepare and bake—a quick and satisfying way to brighten your day.

Storage Options

These cookies store beautifully, making them perfect for baking ahead.

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
Refrigerated Dough: You can also refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking. This can deepen the flavors and make it easier to handle.

To reheat frozen cookies, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them gently in the microwave for a freshly baked taste.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as flexible as it is delicious, making it easy to tailor to your preferences.

Frosted Cookies: Top the cooled cookies with a simple powdered sugar glaze or cream cheese frosting for extra indulgence.
Citrus Twist: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a bright, zesty flavor.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the cookies for a decadent touch.
Whole Wheat Flour: Swap half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a slightly nuttier flavor and added fiber.
Dairy-Free Option: Use a plant-based butter and dairy-free sour cream alternative to make these cookies vegan-friendly.

No matter how you customize them, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face.

Final Thoughts

Grandma’s Sour Cream Sugar Cookies are a timeless treat that combines simplicity and nostalgia in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these cookies are a guaranteed hit. So roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to fill your home with the irresistible aroma of these classic cookies!