Sour Cream Cut-Out Cookies are the ultimate soft and tender sugar cookies that hold their shape while baking. The addition of sour cream gives them an ultra-moist, melt-in-your-mouth texture, making them perfect for frosting and decorating. Whether you’re baking for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or any special occasion, these cookies will become a family favorite!
Let’s dive into the best Sour Cream Cut-Out Cookies recipe, along with pro tips and serving suggestions.
🛒 Ingredients for Sour Cream Cut-Out Cookies
These cookies use simple ingredients, but each one plays an important role in achieving the perfect soft texture:
✅ Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and a smooth texture.
✅ Granulated Sugar – Provides the right amount of sweetness.
✅ Eggs – Essential for structure and moisture.
✅ Sour Cream – The secret ingredient for an ultra-soft cookie.
✅ Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor.
✅ Flour – The base of the dough.
✅ Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise slightly while staying soft.
✅ Salt – Balances the sweetness.
🥣 For the Frosting:
✅ Powdered Sugar
✅ Milk or Heavy Cream
✅ Vanilla or Almond Extract
✅ Food Coloring (Optional)
✅ Sprinkles (Optional)
These ingredients create the perfect sugar cookie that stays soft for days!
🥄 How to Make Sour Cream Cut-Out Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours (or overnight). Chilling prevents spreading and helps the cookies hold their shape.
Step 3: Roll and Cut the Cookies
Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out your favorite shapes.
Step 4: Bake Until Lightly Golden
Place the cookies on a lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes. The edges should be just slightly golden.
Step 5: Cool and Frost
Once completely cooled, frost with your favorite icing and decorate with sprinkles.
🎨 Tip: If you want a simple glaze, mix powdered sugar, vanilla, and a splash of milk until smooth!
🔬 The Science Behind Their Unique Texture
Sour Cream Cut-Out Cookies have a super soft and tender texture because of:
🥛 Sour Cream – Adds moisture, tenderness, and a slight tang to balance sweetness.
🧈 Butter – Creates a rich, soft crumb.
🥚 Eggs – Provide structure and stability while keeping the cookies fluffy.
🌾 Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Gives a gentle rise, making them pillowy-soft.
This perfect combination of ingredients ensures the cookies stay soft for days while holding their shape!
✨ The Magic of Sour Cream Cut-Out Cookies
These cookies are extra special because:
🍪 Super Soft & Tender – Unlike dry sugar cookies, these stay moist!
🎨 Perfect for Decorating – Holds shape well, making them great for frosting.
❄️ Ideal for Holidays – Great for Christmas, Easter, or birthdays.
👩🍳 Easy to Make Ahead – Dough can be prepped in advance for convenience.
🥛 Not Overly Sweet – Balanced flavors make them perfect for icing!
No wonder they’re a go-to recipe for holiday baking!
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Enjoy these cookies in creative ways:
☕ With a Hot Cup of Coffee or Tea – A perfect afternoon treat.
🥛 With a Glass of Milk – Classic and comforting.
🎁 As a Holiday Gift – Package in festive boxes for a thoughtful present.
🎨 Fun for Decorating Parties – Let kids (and adults) customize their own cookies.
These cookies are not just for Christmas—they’re perfect year-round!
❄️ Storage & Freezing Tips
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Refrigeration: Keep frosted cookies in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw and frost before serving.
💡 Pro Tip: To prevent sticking, layer cookies with parchment paper in storage containers.
❓ FAQ – Your Sour Cream Cut-Out Cookie Questions Answered!
❓ Do I have to chill the dough?
Yes! Chilling keeps the cookies from spreading and improves flavor.
❓ Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes! Full-fat Greek yogurt works well as a substitute.
❓ Why are my cookies dry?
Overbaking or adding too much flour can make them dry. Remove when edges are barely golden.
❓ Can I add different flavors?
Absolutely! Try lemon, almond, or even cinnamon for a unique twist.
❓ How do I get my icing to set?
Let frosted cookies sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours until the icing hardens.
🏆 Conclusio
Sour Cream Cut-Out Cookies are the perfect soft sugar cookies that hold their shape beautifully while staying moist and tender.
With a simple, foolproof recipe and easy customization, they’re ideal for Christmas, birthdays, or any special occasion.
So, roll out the dough, grab your favorite cookie cutters, and bake a batch of these delicious, soft cookies today! 🍪✨
