Sour Cream Cookies

If you’re searching for soft, cakey cookies with a touch of tang and a creamy frosting on top, then sour cream cookies are the perfect recipe for you. These cookies are quick to prepare, requiring no chill time, and are incredibly versatile for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, party, or just for fun, these cookies are guaranteed to delight.

These cookies are a classic, but if you’re looking for something truly special, our Dulce De Leche Cake Recipe will satisfy your sweet tooth with its creamy caramel flavor.

Why Sour Cream Cookies Are a Must-Try

What makes sour cream cookies unique? It’s their perfect balance of softness, sweetness, and a subtle tang from the sour cream. These cookies offer:

  • Soft and Tender Texture: Sour cream provides a moist, delicate crumb.
  • Quick Prep Time: No chilling is required, making these cookies fast and easy to prepare.
  • Customizable Options: Add frosting, sprinkles, or flavors for a personalized touch.

Moreover, the buttercream frosting adds a creamy layer of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the subtle tang of the cookie base. These cookies are light yet flavorful, making them ideal for both casual snacking and special occasions.

Ingredients You Need

For the cookies:

  • 1 3/4 cups (210 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/3 cup (75 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream

For the buttercream frosting:

  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups (240 grams) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons milk

Why These Ingredients Matter:

  • Sour cream gives the cookies their tender, cakey texture.
  • Butter adds richness and creaminess.
  • Baking powder and soda create the perfect rise.
  • Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor.

By keeping these ingredients fresh and measuring accurately, you’ll achieve the best results every time. Additionally, using high-quality ingredients ensures a more flavorful cookie.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Sour Cream Cookies

soft sugar cookies with sour cream

  • Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, mix 1 3/4 cups flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Stir to combine and set aside.
  • Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream 1/3 cup softened butter with 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy.
frosted sour cream cookies

  • Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in 1 large egg and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.
  • Add Sour Cream: Mix in 1/2 cup sour cream, ensuring it’s well combined. Sour cream adds a subtle tang and moisture.
cookie recipes using sour cream

  • Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing.

Baking the Cookies

  • Scoop the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or two spoons, scoop the dough onto a lined baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
  • Shape the Cookies: Dampen your fingers with water and gently shape the dough into a round form.
  • Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 11 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

By following these steps carefully, you’ll create cookies that are perfectly soft and cakey.

Buttercream Frosting Instructions

To take your sour cream cookies to the next level, prepare this simple buttercream frosting:

soft sour cream sugar cookies

  • Cream the Butter: In a mixing bowl, beat 1/2 cup softened butter until smooth.
  • Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add 2 cups powdered sugar and mix until well incorporated.
  • Add Vanilla and Milk: Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons milk. Add the milk gradually to achieve your desired consistency.

Decorating the Cookies

  • Once the cookies have completely cooled, spread a thin layer of buttercream over the top.
  • For an ombre effect, divide the frosting into portions and add food coloring of your choice to each portion.
  • Spread the colored frosting to create a gradient effect for a stunning presentation.

Additionally, using food-safe tools for decorating ensures professional results.

Customization Ideas for Sour Cream Cookies

Personalize your sour cream cookie recipe with these fun ideas:

  • Festive Colors: Add food coloring to the frosting to match holidays or themed events.
  • Flavor Variations: Replace vanilla extract with almond or lemon extract for a unique twist.
  • Toppings: Add sprinkles, crushed nuts, or edible glitter for extra flair.
  • Alternative Frostings: Use cream cheese frosting or a chocolate ganache instead of buttercream.

These customizations make your cookies versatile and perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to holiday gatherings. Moreover, these options allow you to adapt the recipe to suit different preferences.

sour cream cookie recipe

Storing and Freezing Sour Cream Cookies

How to Store Cookies

  • At Room Temperature: Store unfrosted cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Frosted cookies should be stored in the fridge.
  • In the Fridge: Frosted cookies can last up to 1 week in an airtight container.

Can I Freeze Sour Cream Cookies?

Yes! Freeze unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw the cookies at room temperature and frost before serving for best results. Furthermore, freezing helps extend their shelf life, making them perfect for planning ahead.

FAQs About Sour Cream

Can I Freeze Sour Cream?

Yes, but freezing may change its texture. While it’s not ideal for topping, frozen sour cream works perfectly in baked goods like cookies.

How Long is Sour Cream Good For?

Unopened sour cream typically lasts until the expiration date on the package. Always store it in the fridge for maximum freshness.

How Long is Sour Cream Good After Opened?

Once opened, sour cream can last 7-10 days in the fridge. Make sure to keep the lid tightly sealed.

How Long Does Sour Cream Last in the Fridge?

Unopened sour cream can last up to 3 weeks in the fridge. Opened sour cream should be consumed within 10 days for best quality.

Additionally, ensuring proper storage conditions will maintain its freshness for longer periods.

cookies with sour cream

Pro Tips for Perfect Sour Cream Cookies

  • Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour and sour cream.
  • Room-Temperature Ingredients: Let butter and eggs sit at room temperature before mixing for a smoother batter.
  • Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to prevent dense cookies.
  • Use Silicone Mats: Line baking sheets with silicone mats for even baking and easier cleanup.

Moreover, paying attention to these small details ensures consistent, bakery-quality results every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sour cream cookie recipe is a dream for any home baker. The cookies are soft, cakey, and topped with a creamy buttercream frosting that melts in your mouth. Perfect for holidays, parties, or a simple sweet treat, these cookies are versatile and easy to customize. With no chill time required, you can whip them up in no time.

By following the step-by-step instructions and pro tips, you’re guaranteed to achieve perfect cookies every time. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your unique twist, sour cream cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home. Try them today and enjoy the delicious combination of tangy, sweet, and creamy flavors.

Love experimenting with desserts? Our Perfect Lava Cake Recipe offers an elegant touch that’s perfect for any special occasion.

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Sour Cream Cookies

Sour Cream Cookies


  • Author: Navy Sinclair
  • Total Time: 26 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies 1x

Description

Soft, cakey cookies with a touch of tang and creamy buttercream frosting, these sour cream cookies are quick, no-chill, and totally customizable for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 3/4 cups (210 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/3 cup (75 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
  • 2 cups (240 grams) powdered sugar (for frosting)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
  • 2 tablespoons milk (for frosting)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In another bowl, cream the softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
  5. Mix in the sour cream until fully incorporated.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
  7. Using a cookie scoop or spoons, place dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
  8. Lightly shape each mound with damp fingers to form rounds.
  9. Bake for 11 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
  10. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  11. For the frosting, beat softened butter until smooth.
  12. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fluffy.
  13. Stir in vanilla and milk until the frosting reaches desired consistency.
  14. Frost cooled cookies and decorate as desired.

Notes

Customize with food coloring, sprinkles, or alternative frostings. Store frosted cookies in the fridge and unfrosted ones at room temp. Freeze unfrosted cookies and frost after thawing for best results.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 11 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 160
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 23g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: sour cream cookies, soft cookies, buttercream frosting, easy cookie recipe, no chill cookies

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