Classic Family Tradition of Urmacher Sugar Cookies

Urmacher Sugar Cookies are a beloved old family recipe that has been passed down through generations. Originating in the heart of the Midwest, these cookies are known for their tender texture, buttery flavor, and just-right sweetness. Adding a cup of sour cream to the traditional recipe transforms the cookies, making them soft, moist, and preventing them from spreading too much during baking. Sour cream also adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the sugar and butter. Families often make these cookies during holidays or special occasions, creating cherished memories while baking. The dough is versatile, allowing for fun cookie cutters, making these treats both visually delightful and delicious.

Why Each Ingredient Matters in Sugar Cookies

Each ingredient in Urmacher Sugar Cookies plays a vital role. Butter gives the cookies richness and helps create a tender crumb, while sugar sweetens and slightly caramelizes during baking for a golden bottom. Eggs provide structure and binding, and the addition of sour cream adds moisture and a soft texture. Vanilla enhances the overall flavor, while a dash of nutmeg introduces a subtle, aromatic warmth that elevates the cookie from ordinary to extraordinary. Baking powder ensures the cookies rise slightly, keeping them light and airy. Finally, flour creates the base, giving the cookies their shape, while milk is added gradually to achieve the perfect dough consistency. This balance of ingredients ensures a cookie that is soft yet sturdy enough for frosting.

Frosting and Serving Ideas

While these cookies are delicious on their own, frosting adds a fun, festive touch. Traditional buttercream or cream cheese frosting works beautifully, complementing the cookie’s mild sweetness. Buttercream gives a creamy, smooth topping that is easy to spread and decorate, while cream cheese frosting adds a slightly tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sour cream in the dough. For a family activity, children can help spread the frosting or add sprinkles, making cookie decorating an interactive experience. These cookies can be enjoyed as part of a holiday platter, a sweet snack with tea or coffee, or even packaged as gifts for friends and neighbors. Their texture holds up well, making them suitable for stacking and storing.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups sugar
• 1 cup butter, softened
• ½ cup milk
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 tsp baking powder
• Dash of nutmeg
• Approximately 4 cups all-purpose flour
• Buttercream or cream cheese frosting (for topping)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step ensures a tender cookie with even sweetness.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Sour Cream

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in sour cream, vanilla, and nutmeg for flavor and moisture.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

Add baking powder, then alternate flour and milk gradually until a stiff dough forms. Ensure the dough is firm enough to roll but soft enough to cut easily.

Step 4: Roll and Cut Dough

On a floured surface, roll dough to about ½-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes for the holidays or special occasions.

Step 5: Bake and Frost

Bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden on the bottoms, about 8–12 minutes depending on size. Let cool completely before frosting with buttercream or cream cheese frosting.

Timing and Nutrition

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes per batch
• Cooling & Frosting: 15–20 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
• Calories per cookie: ~180 kcal (without frosting)

Q1: Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Bring it to room temperature before rolling and cutting. This also enhances the flavor.

Q2: Can I freeze the cookies?

Absolutely. Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Frost after thawing for best results.

Q3: Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary slightly, so monitor baking times.

Q4: How do I prevent cookies from spreading?

The sour cream in this recipe helps prevent spreading. Also, chilling the dough before cutting and rolling ensures the cookies keep their shape.

Q5: Can I add decorations?

Yes! Sprinkles, colored sugar, or piped frosting designs work well. Let your creativity shine, especially for holiday-themed cookies.