Ingredients

For the Cookies

• Butter – 115 g (softened)
• Salt – a pinch
• Sugar – 120 g
• Vanilla sugar – 1 tsp
• Sour cream – 150 g
• Egg – 1 pc
• All-purpose flour – 420 g
• Baking powder – 15 g

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

1. Soften the butter: Leave the butter at room temperature for 30–45 minutes or until it becomes soft but not melted.
2. Preheat your oven: Set it to 180°C (356°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Make the Dough

1. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the sugar and vanilla sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy.
2. Add the egg and sour cream: Mix in the egg, followed by the sour cream, ensuring everything is well combined.
3. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft, pliable dough forms.

3. Shape the Cookies

1. Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough to a thickness of about 0.5 cm (1/4 inch).
2. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes of your choice—stars, circles, hearts, or classic rounds. Alternatively, you can roll the dough into small balls and flatten them slightly with the palm of your hand.
3. Arrange the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.

4. Bake

1. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them to avoid overbaking, as this will make them less tender.

5. Cool and Serve

1. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Once cooled, enjoy them as is or decorate with powdered sugar, icing, or melted chocolate for an extra touch.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
• Total Time: 35–40 minutes
• Servings: Makes about 24 cookies
• Calories per Cookie: Approximately 120 kcal

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Butter cookies are an enduring favorite across cultures, and this sour cream variation adds a unique richness that elevates the classic. The use of sour cream not only provides moisture but also enhances the flavor, giving the cookies a slightly tangy balance to their sweetness.

This recipe is versatile and forgiving, making it ideal for novice bakers and seasoned cooks alike. The cookies can be customized with different flavors, shapes, and decorations, making them suitable for everything from holiday celebrations to everyday snacks.

What truly makes these cookies timeless is their universal appeal. They bring back memories of childhood baking sessions, festive gatherings, and quiet moments shared over a cup of tea or coffee. Their simplicity is a reminder that sometimes, the most cherished treats are the ones made with just a handful of ingredients and a lot of love.

Nutrition Facts (Per Cookie)

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Protein: 2 g
• Carbohydrates: 16 g
• Fat: 5 g
• Sugar: 7 g
• Sodium: 20 mg

FAQs

Can I use yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, full-fat plain yogurt can be a good substitute for sour cream in this recipe. However, it may slightly alter the texture and tanginess of the cookies.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for baking. You may need to adjust the consistency of the dough slightly by adding a little extra sour cream.

Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before rolling and baking.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

1. Use high-quality butter: Since butter is a primary flavor in these cookies, opt for a good-quality unsalted butter for the best results.
2. Don’t overmix the dough: Overworking the dough can make the cookies tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
3. Chill the dough if needed: If the dough feels too soft to roll, refrigerate it for 15–20 minutes to make it easier to handle.
4. Experiment with flavors: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or lemon zest to the dough for a unique twist.
5. Decorate creatively: These cookies are a perfect canvas for decorations, so let your creativity shine with icing, sprinkles, or chocolate drizzle.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing Baked Cookies: Place the baked and cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: For a freshly baked taste, warm the cookies in a 150°C (300°F) oven for 5 minutes.

Conclusion

There’s a reason why butter cookies, especially with the added twist of sour cream, have remained a favorite for generations. Their soft, tender crumb, rich buttery flavor, and endless adaptability make them a staple in any baker’s repertoire.

This recipe is more than just a set of instructions—it’s an invitation to create memories. Whether you’re baking with loved ones or savoring the quiet process of making something from scratch, these cookies are sure to leave a lasting impression.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the aroma of fresh cookies fill your kitchen. Each bite will transport you to a place of warmth and nostalgia, proving once again that the simplest treats are often the most cherished. Enjoy!