Urmacher Sugar Cookies: A Family Favorite
Every family has that one recipe that brings memories flooding back, and for our family, the Urmacher Sugar Cookies are just that. Passed down through generations, this beloved treat has evolved over time, with my own twist: a cup of sour cream. This small but mighty addition results in a cookie that’s perfectly tender, not too sweet, and doesn’t spread during baking. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or any special occasion, these cookies are sure to please. But don’t take my word for it—give them a try yourself, and you’ll see why everyone loves them!
History of the Urmacher Sugar Cookie
The Urmacher Sugar Cookie is a beloved family recipe with roots that go back several generations. Originally, the recipe was a simple, straightforward sugar cookie designed for festive gatherings and community events. It was a staple in the Urmacher household during Christmas, weddings, and birthdays. Over the years, subtle changes were made to adapt the recipe to individual tastes, and the addition of sour cream was one such modification that helped elevate the cookie’s flavor and texture.
Although we’ve experimented with frosting and decorations over the years, the real charm of these cookies is in their balance—just sweet enough to be delightful but not overly sugary. Their simplicity is a hallmark of a good sugar cookie, and they’ve become a favorite of both old and young alike.
Urmacher Sugar Cookie Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups sugar
- 1 cup butter (softened)
- ½ cup milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 tsp baking powder
- Dash of nutmeg
- Approximately 4 cups all-purpose flour (you may need a little more, depending on the dough consistency)
For the Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp heavy cream or milk (for desired consistency)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
- Add the eggs one at a time: Add the eggs, one at a time, incorporating each egg thoroughly before adding the next. This will ensure the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Mix in the wet ingredients: Add the sour cream, vanilla extract, and dash of nutmeg. Stir well to combine.
- Add the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking powder and flour. Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start with adding half of the flour mixture, then half of the milk, and repeat until all ingredients are combined. You should aim for a stiff dough that isn’t too sticky.
- Roll out the dough: Flour your work surface and roll out the dough to about ½ inch thick. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes—stars, hearts, or traditional circles work wonderfully. The dough will hold its shape during baking, so you can get as creative as you like.
- Bake the cookies: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between them. Bake for about 8-10 minutes, or until the bottoms are golden brown. Be sure not to overbake them—these cookies should have a slightly soft center but crisp edges.
- Cool the cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Frost the cookies: While the cookies are cooling, make the buttercream frosting. Beat together softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth, adding heavy cream or milk to adjust the consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt for balance. Once the cookies have cooled, generously frost them. Feel free to get creative with sprinkles or other decorations if you wish—though my son insists a simple “slathering” of frosting is perfect!
Method to Perfection
The key to the perfect Urmacher Sugar Cookie is in the dough consistency. The sour cream works wonders here, contributing to the dough’s tenderness while also keeping it from spreading too much during baking. Be sure to roll the dough to an even thickness to ensure all the cookies bake uniformly. For best results, allow the cookies to cool completely before frosting them so the frosting doesn’t melt and slide off.
You’ll also want to make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before you begin. This makes them easier to incorporate into the dough and ensures a smooth texture.
Lovers of the Urmacher Sugar Cookie
It’s not just the family that loves these cookies—over the years, I’ve shared them with friends, neighbors, and coworkers. Every year, someone asks for the recipe, and I’m always happy to share. The cookies are versatile enough to suit any holiday, but their true magic comes from the love and memories baked into each batch. Whether decorated with intricate icing or simply frosted with a swipe of buttercream, these cookies hold a special place in the hearts of everyone who’s ever tasted them.
Conclusion: A Cookie for All Seasons
The Urmacher Sugar Cookies are more than just a treat—they are a piece of family history, a tradition that continues to bring joy to every generation. Their perfect balance of sweetness and texture, combined with a simple but effective frosting, make them the ideal choice for any occasion. If you’re looking to try something that’s not overly sweet but still deliciously satisfying, give these cookies a shot. After all, it’s not just about the recipe, but the memories and love shared with every bite.
So, happy baking, and I hope these cookies bring as much joy to your table as they have to mine over the years!