Here’s a full “big recipe” write-up for your Urmacher Sugar Cookies—with history, story-style introduction, methods, and everything you asked for.

Urmacher Sugar Cookies with Buttercream Frosting

Introduction

Some recipes are more than just food—they are memories you can taste. The Urmacher Sugar Cookies are one such treasure, handed down through generations, with each baker adding their own little twist. This sugar cookie recipe has stood the test of time because of its soft, tender crumb, balanced sweetness, and versatility. Unlike many sugar cookies that spread too much or become overly sweet, this one holds its shape beautifully and has just the right hint of richness. The secret touch? A cup of sour cream, which adds moisture, softness, and that irresistible bakery-style flavor.

Perfect for Christmas, holidays, birthdays, or just cozy family afternoons, these cookies are as much about tradition as they are about taste. Whether you frost them with cream cheese icing or slather on a homemade buttercream (like your family did this year), they never fail to bring smiles.

Ingredients

For the Sugar Cookies:

1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 cup butter (softened)
½ cup milk
3 large eggs
1 cup sour cream (the secret ingredient!)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 teaspoons baking powder
1 dash nutmeg (optional but highly recommended for warmth)
Approximately 4 cups all-purpose flour (enough for a stiff dough)

For the Buttercream Frosting (optional but heavenly):

1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
3–4 cups powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Pinch of salt (balances sweetness)

Instructions

Step 1: Creaming the base

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step creates the foundation of tenderness.

Step 2: Adding eggs

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.

Step 3: Flavor and moisture

Mix in the sour cream, vanilla, and nutmeg. The sour cream gives the dough its signature softness.

Step 4: Leavening

Stir in the baking powder to ensure even rise.

Step 5: Forming the dough

Alternate adding the flour and milk, beginning and ending with flour. Keep adding flour until the dough is stiff but still pliable.

Step 6: Rolling and cutting

On a floured surface, roll the dough to about ½ inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut into festive shapes.

Step 7: Baking

Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) until the bottoms are lightly golden (about 8–12 minutes, depending on size).

Step 8: Frosting

Once cooled, frost with buttercream or cream cheese frosting. Spread thick, pipe swirls, or—as one son wisely suggested—just slather it on with joy.

Method Notes

Texture: These cookies are thicker and softer than typical sugar cookies. The sour cream ensures they don’t dry out.
Flavor: Nutmeg gives a subtle festive note.
Decorating: Buttercream is softer and creamier than royal icing, but it makes each bite indulgent.

History & Formation

The Urmacher Sugar Cookies are a family heirloom recipe, shared from one generation to the next. Each time they’re baked, the recipe gains new meaning. Originally made with cream cheese frosting from a can, they’ve evolved into something richer with homemade buttercream, showing how traditions adapt while still holding onto their roots. The sour cream addition is a brilliant evolution—keeping the cookies moist and soft, and ensuring they don’t spread too much when baked.

Conclusion

There’s something magical about sugar cookies that bring people together, especially during the holidays. These cookies aren’t just treats—they’re family memories, laughter in the kitchen, and the sweet chaos of decorating (or not decorating, if frosting gets slathered on instead!).

So bake them, share them, and pass on the tradition. Whether you’re making them with kids, friends, or for loved ones, these cookies prove that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most extraordinary.

✨ Cookie Lovers’ Note: If you’re a lover of soft, tender sugar cookies with a hint of nostalgia and joy in every bite—this recipe will win your heart.

Would you like me to also add a little festive story-style paragraph (like describing the scene of baking them with family at the holidays), so it reads like a recipe blog post intro?