Instructions

1. Whip the butter and sour cream together for two minutes, until fluffy.
2. Add sugar and blend until incorporated, and it turns white and shiny.
3. This takes a few minutes. Add the egg and beat, then add vanilla.
4. Finally, add the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Mix until fully combined, being sure that everything is fully blended.
6. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl to be sure.
7. Adding the correct amount of flour is important; be consistent and accurate for the best cookies.
8. Once the cookie dough is fully incorporated, turn it out on a well-floured surface and roll out to 1/4 inch thick.
9. Cut out the shapes, place on a lined cookie sheet and bake at 350 degrees for 8-11 minutes.
10. Watch for them to be fully risen, about double in height, and smooth, not shiny.
11. They can begin to turn slightly golden on the tips, but do not let them burn.
12. After the first round of shapes have been cut from the dough, the second rollout needs less flour on the surface, as it has more flour in the dough.
13. When the cookies are done, let them cool completely before frosting or storing.