Soft Kefir Sugar Cookies

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cookie removal.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside for later.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and 1 cup sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is important for getting soft, tender cookies.

4. Add the Wet Ingredients:

• Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and beat until combined.
• Stir in the kefir, mixing until smooth. The kefir will help add moisture and tenderness to the dough.

5. Combine the Dry and Wet Ingredients:

• Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can result in denser cookies.

6. Shape the Cookies:

• Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
• Roll each dough ball in extra sugar for a sweet and slightly crunchy exterior. This is a classic touch that gives your cookies a beautiful, sparkling finish.

7. Bake the Cookies:

• Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers will look soft but will firm up as they cool, resulting in the perfect chewy texture.
• If you prefer slightly firmer cookies, you can bake them for an extra minute or two, but be careful not to overbake them as they may lose their soft texture.

8. Cool and Serve:

• Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Serve these soft kefir sugar cookies with a glass of milk, a cup of tea, or enjoy them on their own as a delicious snack.

Tips for Perfect Soft Kefir Sugar Cookies

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best results, ensure that your butter and egg are at room temperature before mixing. This will create a smoother dough and ensure the ingredients combine evenly.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix the dough until just combined to avoid dense cookies. Overworking the dough can lead to cookies that are tougher and less tender.
• Add Flavored Kefir for Extra Depth: If you want to experiment with different flavors, try using flavored kefir (like strawberry or vanilla) to add a subtle twist to the cookies. Just make sure the flavor complements the sweetness of the sugar.
• Experiment with Add-ins: For a fun variation, you can add chocolate chips, dried fruit, or chopped nuts to the dough before baking for extra flavor and texture.

Why Kefir Works So Well in These Cookies

Kefir is a fermented dairy product similar to yogurt but thinner in consistency. It’s packed with probiotics, which makes it a great addition to your diet for digestive health. In these soft kefir sugar cookies, kefir does more than just provide a health boost—it plays an essential role in the cookie’s texture. The acidity of kefir helps activate the baking soda, which gives the cookies their soft, light texture. Additionally, the mild tang of kefir enhances the sweetness of the cookies without being overpowering, creating a unique flavor profile that’s both familiar and new.

A Delicious Twist on Traditional Sugar Cookies

These Soft Kefir Sugar Cookies offer a modern twist on the classic sugar cookie that is sure to become a family favorite. With their tender texture, slight tang from the kefir, and just the right amount of sweetness, these cookies are a delightful treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or simply enjoying a cozy afternoon at home, this recipe will bring joy to your kitchen.

So, the next time you’re in the mood for a homemade, soft, and delicious cookie, reach for this kefir-infused recipe. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a healthier, yet indulgent, take on a beloved classic!