Sour Cream Cut-Out Cookies (Print Version)

Ingredients:

01 - 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (or cake flour substitute: remove 2 tablespoons from every cup of all-purpose flour and replace with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch).
02 - 1 teaspoon baking soda.
03 - 1 teaspoon salt.
04 - 1 teaspoon baking powder.
05 - 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg.
06 - 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature.
07 - 1 cup granulated sugar.
08 - 1 egg.
09 - 1/2 cup sour cream.
10 - Buttercream frosting (optional): laced with vanilla and almond flavoring.

Instructions:

01 - In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, baking powder, and nutmeg.
02 - In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
03 - Beat in the egg and then stir in the sour cream.
04 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
05 - Refrigerate the dough for at least an hour to help it hold shape.
06 - On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
07 - Use cookie cutters to cut out the cookies. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between each cookie.
08 - Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking; the tops should remain light.
09 - Make a buttercream frosting with vanilla and almond flavoring (optional).
10 - Frost the cookies once they are fully cooled.

Notes:

01 - These cookies are known for their cake-like softness and moist texture, thanks to the sour cream.
02 - The addition of nutmeg and the use of sour cream give these cookies a unique and delicious flavor profile. The buttercream frosting adds an extra layer of sweetness and flavor.
03 - The cookies should have a light golden color on the edges and remain light on top. Overbaking can result in a less desirable texture.
04 - These cookies are perfect for holiday decorations and can be frosted and decorated in various ways. They also freeze well, making them convenient for advance preparation.