Old Fashioned Sour Cream Cookies
Old-fashioned sour cream cookies evoke nostalgia, bringing back memories of family gatherings and cozy afternoons. I remember the first time I tasted these soft, tender delights sprinkled with powdered sugar. They have a delightful balance of sweetness and richness, making them a perfect treat any time of the day. Whether you’re hosting a tea party, celebrating a birthday, or simply craving a homemade sweet, these cookies will not disappoint.
Why you’ll love this dish
Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy cookie that melts in your mouth. That’s the magic of old-fashioned sour cream cookies! Not only are they incredibly easy to make, but they also require everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. They’re perfect for baking with kids who can help drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet. Plus, these cookies are versatile enough to be dressed up or down — enjoy them plain or topped with a simple frosting, making them a delightful addition to any gathering or just an afternoon snack.
"These sour cream cookies are a game-changer! They are so soft and delicious, and my kids can’t get enough of them!"
Preparing Old Fashioned Sour Cream Cookies
This recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly, with just a few simple steps to create these delightful cookies. Begin by gathering your ingredients and preheating your oven. You’ll mix wet ingredients separately from dry, combine them, and then bake. It’s a fun, quick process that yields delicious results!
What you’ll need
Here’s what you need to make these delightful cookies:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- Powdered sugar for frosting
- Milk for frosting
Feel free to experiment! For a twist, consider substituting yogurt for sour cream or using different extracts like almond or lemon.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and hot for baking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar, beating until creamy and smooth.
- Add the sour cream, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a greased baking sheet, making sure to leave space between each cookie.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden.
- For the frosting, combine powdered sugar with a splash of milk, whisking until smooth. Drizzle it over the cooled cookies for a sweet finish.
Best ways to enjoy it
These old-fashioned sour cream cookies are delicious on their own, but you can enhance the experience with a few thoughtful pairings. Serve them alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. They also make a delightful dessert at a family dinner, especially when plated with fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream. Don’t hesitate to bring them to potlucks, where they’ll be sure to impress!
How to store
To keep your old-fashioned sour cream cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to indulge in these cookies for longer, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
Tips for success
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are softened to room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Combine the dough until just mixed to keep those cookies tender.
- Experiment with Frosting: Add food coloring or flavor extracts to your frosting for a fun twist!
Creative twists
Take your sour cream cookies to the next level! Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to the dough for an added texture. You can also experiment with flavored frostings or add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the mixture for a warm spice kick. For a seasonal treat, try adding pumpkin puree during fall or zesting citrus fruits for a refreshing summer cookie.

FAQs
How long does it take to prepare these cookies?
From mixing to baking, you can expect to spend about 30 minutes in the kitchen. Baking will take an additional 10-12 minutes based on your oven.
Can I replace sour cream with another ingredient?
Yes! You can substitute the sour cream with plain yogurt or even buttermilk if needed. Each will lend its own unique flavor and texture.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in layers with parchment paper separating each layer.

Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar, beating until creamy and smooth.
- Add the sour cream, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a greased baking sheet, making sure to leave space between each cookie.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden.
- For the frosting, combine powdered sugar with a splash of milk, whisking until smooth. Drizzle it over the cooled cookies for a sweet finish.







