Name: Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies: Soft Treasures for Every Occasion
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 150 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Sour Cream (Make sure it’s fresh for the best results.); 1 cup Butter (Use unsalted butter for better control over saltiness.); 1.5 cups Sugar (Opt for white granulated sugar for optimal outcome.); 2 large Eggs (Standard for best results.); 4 cups Flour (All-purpose flour; measure carefully to avoid a dense texture.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Ensure you use the recommended amount for the perfect puff.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Always check for freshness to ensure effectiveness.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Pure vanilla extract is preferred for a richer taste.); 0.5 teaspoon Salt (Kosher salt is an excellent choice.)

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“Have you ever tasted a cookie that could transport you back to your childhood kitchen? The moment I tried Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies, I was captivated by their soft texture and nostalgic warmth. This traditional recipe is not only easy to whip up but also offers a delightful twist with the inclusion of tangy sour cream, ensuring a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive celebrations, and they hold a special charm that ordinary cookies just can’t match. Ready to create some delicious memories? Let’s dive into the world of baking these delightful treats together!”

What Makes These Cookies a Must-Try?

Irresistible Softness: The unique addition of sour cream elevates these cookies, resulting in an exceptionally soft and tender texture that’s simply unforgettable.

Nostalgic Flavor: As you take a bite, you’ll be transported back to those childhood moments filled with warmth and comfort, making them ideal for family gatherings.

Versatile Delight: Dress these cookies up with festive icing or decorations, or enjoy them plain with a cup of coffee, perfect for any occasion! You might also enjoy these flavorful options: Mango Cookies Delightful and Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies.

Quick and Simple: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can prepare these cookies in no time, making them a fantastic choice for busy bakers.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and delightful sweetness will charm everyone, making them a go-to dessert for gatherings and celebrations alike.

Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough

Sour Cream – Adds moisture and tenderness to the dough; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
Butter – Provides richness and flavor; use unsalted butter to have better control over the saltiness.
Sugar – Sweetens and structures the cookies; opt for white granulated sugar for optimal outcome.
Eggs – Bind ingredients and add moisture; large eggs are standard for best results.
Flour – Forms the base of the cookies; all-purpose flour is the go-to, but measure carefully to avoid a dense texture.
Baking Powder – A leavening agent that gives rise; ensure you use the recommended amount for the perfect puff.
Baking Soda – Works with baking powder for optimal rise; always check for freshness to ensure effectiveness.
Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor profile; pure vanilla extract is preferred for a richer taste.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor; kosher salt is an excellent choice.

These Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies are bound to be a hit at any gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 ½ cups of white granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Continue mixing until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for creating a tender texture in your Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies, so ensure that your mixture is pale and airy.

Step 2: Incorporate Sour Cream and Eggs
Add 2 large eggs and 1 cup of sour cream to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix on low speed until all ingredients are well combined, about 1-2 minutes. The sour cream not only enhances the flavor but also adds a rich moisture that keeps the cookies soft. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is blended smoothly.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. This step is important to evenly distribute the leavening agents. Make sure there are no lumps in the flour mixture, as any clumps can affect the texture of your Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be soft and slightly sticky, ideal for rolling out. This is where the magic happens for your Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies, as you will start to see the cookie dough come together beautifully.

Step 5: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for about 2 hours. Chilling the dough is essential to providing the cookies with shape while baking, ensuring they don’t spread too much. Once the dough is firm to the touch, it’s ready to be rolled out and shaped into delicious cookies.

Step 6: Roll Out and Cut Shapes
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. On a floured surface, take a portion of the chilled dough and roll itout to about ¼ inch thick. Using cookie cutters, cut the dough into your desired shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as they should remain soft in the center when taken out. This light baking time ensures your Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies have that sought-after tender texture while still having a delightful golden edge.

Step 8: Cool Before Decorating
Once baked, remove the sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. This cooling process allows the cookies to firm up, making them easier to decorate or enjoy plain. Your tart and tender Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies are now ready for their final adornments!

Make Ahead Options

These Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies are a dream for busy bakers looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by chilling it in the refrigerator, covered tightly in plastic wrap. This step not only enhances the flavors but also makes rolling and cutting the dough easier when you’re ready to bake. If you want to prep even further ahead, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months; just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before rolling it out. When you’re ready to bake, simply roll out the chilled or thawed dough, cut out your shapes, and bake as directed for deliciously tender cookies that taste just as fresh and delightful as when first made!

Expert Tips for Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies

Measure Flour Accurately: Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level method to measure flour properly. Too much flour can lead to dry, dense cookies instead of the desired soft texture.
Chill the Dough: Always chill the cookie dough for at least 2 hours. This step prevents spreading during baking, helping to maintain the cookie’s shape and softness.
Watch the Baking Time: Aim for slightly underbaked cookies—they should feel soft in the center when you take them out. They’ll continue to set as they cool, resulting in the perfect tender bite.
Store Properly: To keep your Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps maintain their soft texture for longer.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add zest from citrus fruits or swap vanilla extract for almond extract. It’s a great way to customize your cookies while keeping them delightfully soft!

What to Serve with Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies

The delightful softness of these cookies can truly shine when paired with the right accompaniments that enhance their nostalgic warmth.

Creamy Hot Chocolate: The rich, velvety texture of hot chocolate perfectly complements the tender sweetness of the cookies, making each bite heavenly. Enjoy this comforting duo during chilly evenings for an extra cozy experience.
Fresh Berries: Bright, juicy berries like strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing, tangy contrast that cuts through the sweetness, creating an enticing balance. Their vibrant colors also make for a beautiful presentation!
Vanilla Ice Cream: Placing a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top or alongside the cookies offers a wonderful temperature contrast and creamy richness that harmonizes beautifully with their soft texture. Perfect for a festive dessert tier!
Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices of chai elevate the cookie’s flavor profile, making each bite feel like a cherished moment by the fireside. Sip slowly and savor the comforting notes of cinnamon and cardamom.
Lemon Glaze: A light drizzle of tangy lemon glaze adds a zesty brightness to the cookies, creating an uplifting flavor profile that pairs harmoniously with their sweetness. Just the right touch of acidity!
Chocolate Dipped Coffee: The bittersweet chocolate enhances the cookies’ earthy sweetness, while a touch of coffee elevates their flavors. This pairing is an indulgent choice for any coffee lover’s gathering.
Coconut Macaroons: These chewy, sweet macaroons offer a delightful textural contrast, making them a perfect treat to serve alongside your soft Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies. Enjoy the variety!
Fruit-Infused Water: Serve chilled water infused with cucumber, mint, or citrus to cleanse the palate between bites and highlight the rich flavors of the cookies. It’s a refreshing and visually appealing option!

These pairings will enhance your experience with Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies, creating the perfect setting for cherished moments and delightful memories.

Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies Variations

Feel free to switch things up and make these cookies your own with some delightful twists and adaptations!

Citrus Zest: Add zest from lemon, lime, or orange to the dough for a refreshing zing that’ll brighten the flavors beautifully. The brightness of citrus paired with the creamy texture creates a balance that’s absolutely delightful!
Almond Extract: Swap out vanilla extract for almond extract to introduce a rich, nutty profile. This unexpected flavor combination will surprise and delight your taste buds, offering a unique touch to your cookies.
Chocolate Chips: Fold in a cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for extra indulgence. Chocolate and sour cream may seem unusual, but that creamy tang combined with chocolate makes for a delightful treat!
Spices: Experiment by adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, inviting spice blend. This will create an aromatic essence that’s perfect for cozy gatherings and festive occasions.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added texture. The slight crunch will contrast beautifully with the softness of the cookie, offering a satisfying bite each time.
Icing & Sprinkles: Enhance the festive spirit by decorating your cookies with a simple sugar icing and colorful sprinkles. It adds a fun touch, perfect for holiday cookie trays or celebratory occasions.
Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive guests. They’ll still be soft and tasty, and everyone can enjoy them together!

Feel free to explore these variations, or check out some other delicious cookie recipes like Velvet Crinkle Cookies and No-Bake Keto Cookies for more yummy options that can please any palate!

Storage Tips for Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies

Room Temperature: Store baked Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This method helps preserve their delightful softness and flavor.

Refrigerator: If you live in a humid climate, consider storing them in the fridge for extra freshness, though this may slightly affect their tender texture.

Freezer: Freeze the dough by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before rolling and baking.

Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, simply reheat them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes, restoring their soft, tender goodness.

Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of sour cream should I use?
I recommend using full-fat sour cream for the best results in your Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies. This adds moisture and richness that are key to achieving a tender texture. Always check the expiration date to ensure it’s fresh for optimal flavor and quality.

How do I store baked cookies?
To keep your Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This preserves their delightful softness. If you live in a humid climate, you might consider storing them in the refrigerator, though be aware that this may slightly change their texture.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! To freeze your Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before rolling out and cutting your cookies.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?
If your Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies are spreading too much while baking, it might be due to the dough not being sufficiently chilled or if you’ve overmixed it. Always make sure to chill the dough for at least 2 hours before baking. If you notice significant spreading, try refrigerating the formed cookies for another 15-30 minutes before they go into the oven.

Are these cookies safe for pets?
While cookies can be a delightful treat for us, they often contain ingredients like sugar and butter that aren’t good for our pets. It’s best to keep these Sour Cream Cut Out Cookies away from your furry friends to ensure their health and well-being. Always consider pet-friendly alternatives if you’d like to share a treat with them!