Nowhere else will you find a sugar cookie recipe as soft, fluffy, and downright delicious as this one. The secret? A generous dollop of sour cream that transforms the dough into a cloud-like dream. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are sure to steal the show.
Why This Recipe Works
- The sour cream adds moisture and richness, ensuring each cookie is soft and tender.
- A perfect balance of sugar and vanilla creates a flavor that’s sweet but not overpowering.
- The dough is easy to work with, making it ideal for cut-out cookies or simple drops.
- Baking at the right temperature ensures they’re golden on the edges but remain soft in the center.
- This recipe is versatile, allowing for various decorations and flavors to suit any taste.
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Cookie cutters (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for easy cleanup and ensuring your cookies don’t stick to the pan. Tip: If you don’t have parchment paper, a light greasing of the pan will do, but parchment is preferred for even baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. This ensures your leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is key for uniform rising. Sifting the flour can also help achieve a lighter texture in your cookies.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3 minutes on medium speed. The mixture should be pale in color and have a creamy consistency. This step incorporates air into the dough, contributing to the cookies’ soft texture.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the egg, then the sour cream and vanilla extract until well combined. The sour cream is the star here, adding moisture and a slight tang that balances the sweetness. Tip: Make sure all your wet ingredients are at room temperature to ensure a smooth, homogenous dough.
Step 5: Combine and Bake
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space for spreading. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are just golden. Tip: For uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop.
Tips and Tricks
For the best results, always use room temperature ingredients. This ensures everything mixes together smoothly without overworking the dough. If you’re in a hurry, you can soften butter quickly by cutting it into small pieces and letting it sit for a few minutes. When measuring flour, spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid packing too much flour into your dough. For extra soft cookies, slightly underbake them; they’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet out of the oven. Finally, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking apart.
Recipe Variations
- Add lemon zest and a tablespoon of lemon juice to the dough for a citrusy twist.
- Mix in a cup of chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
- For a festive touch, roll the dough balls in colored sugar before baking.
- Swap the vanilla extract for almond or peppermint extract for a different flavor profile.
- After baking, drizzle with a simple glaze or frosting for extra sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use low-fat sour cream?
Yes, you can use low-fat sour cream, but keep in mind that the texture and richness of the cookies might be slightly affected. Full-fat sour cream provides the best moisture and flavor, but low-fat will still yield delicious cookies.
How do I store these cookies?
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Just make sure they’re well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Just let it come to room temperature before baking. You can also freeze the dough for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.
Summary
This sour cream sugar cookie recipe is your ticket to soft, fluffy cookies that are perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have delicious treats in no time. Don’t forget to try the variations to keep things interesting!