Soft Sour Cream Sugar (Printer-Friendly Version)

Soft, tender cookies with a subtle tang and fluffy texture ideal for decorating and sharing.

# Ingredients Needed:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
03 - ½ teaspoon baking soda
04 - ½ teaspoon salt

→ Wet Ingredients

05 - ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
06 - 1 cup granulated sugar
07 - 1 large egg
08 - ½ cup sour cream
09 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Frosting

10 - ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
11 - 2 cups powdered sugar
12 - 1 tablespoon milk, adjust for desired consistency
13 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
14 - Food coloring (optional)
15 - Sprinkles (optional)

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar using a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
03 - Mix in the egg, sour cream, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and thoroughly combined.
04 - Gradually add the dry ingredient blend to the wet ingredients, stirring just until incorporated to maintain tenderness.
05 - Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape each into a disc, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
06 - Preheat the oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
07 - On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes with cookie cutters and place on prepared baking sheets.
08 - Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
09 - Beat the softened butter in a medium bowl until creamy. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar, then mix in vanilla extract and 1 to 2 tablespoons milk until spreadable.
10 - If desired, divide frosting and add food coloring. Spread or pipe onto cooled cookies, garnish with sprinkles or decorations, and allow frosting to set before storing.

# Helpful Hints:

01 - Chill dough for at least 1 hour to ensure easier handling and precise cookie shapes.
02 - Avoid overmixing the dough to maintain a tender, soft texture.
03 - Cool cookies completely before frosting to prevent melting or sliding of the topping.