Lofthouse cookies are a delightful treat loved by cookie enthusiasts everywhere. These soft, fluffy, and cake-like cookies are topped with sweet buttercream frosting and colorful sprinkles, making them perfect for any occasion. Even better, making homemade Lofthouse cookies is easier than you might think. With this recipe, you’ll create cookies that taste fresher and more delicious than any store-bought version.
What Are Lofthouse Cookies?
Lofthouse sugar cookies stand out for their signature texture and flavor. Unlike traditional sugar cookies, these cookies are incredibly soft and airy, almost like mini cakes. This is thanks to ingredients like sour cream and cornstarch, which give them a tender bite.
In addition to their unique texture, these cookies are known for their vibrant buttercream frosting and sprinkles. They’re fun to customize and ideal for holidays, birthdays, or whenever you’re in the mood for a sweet treat!
Ingredients for Lofthouse Cookies
To make the best homemade Lofthouse cookies, gather these ingredients:
For the Cookies:
- 2 cups (270g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- ¼ cup (60g) sour cream, room temperature
For the Frosting:
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk or cream
- Food coloring (optional)
- Sprinkles for decorating
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
First, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Sifting these ingredients ensures your cookies will have a smooth texture.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, beat softened butter and sugar using a stand mixer or hand mixer. Beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
3. Add Egg and Extracts
Next, mix in the egg along with the vanilla extract. If you like a hint of extra flavor, include the almond extract as well.
4. Incorporate Sour Cream
Now, blend in the sour cream. This ingredient makes the cookies tender and moist, so ensure it’s mixed well for a smooth batter.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix gently until everything comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the cookies’ soft texture.
6. Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least an hour. This step makes the dough easier to roll and ensures the cookies hold their shape while baking.
7. Roll and Cut Cookies
After chilling, roll out the dough to ¼-inch thickness on a floured surface. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out shapes. Re-roll the scraps to make additional cookies if needed.
8. Bake the Cookies
Place the cookies on parchment-lined baking sheets and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8–9 minutes. Remove them from the oven as soon as the edges are set, and let them cool completely before frosting.
Making Buttercream Frosting
Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk or cream
Instructions:
- Start by beating the butter until it’s soft and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract while mixing.
- Slowly drizzle in milk or cream until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to match the occasion.
Decorating Lofthouse Cookies
Decorating Lofthouse cookies is a fun and creative step in the process. First, pipe or spread the frosting onto each cookie. To add a festive touch, sprinkle decorations on top while the frosting is still soft. You can also use different colors and sprinkles to customize the cookies for holidays or celebrations.
How to Store Lofthouse Cookies
How to Store Iced Cookies
To keep your frosted cookies fresh, place them in an airtight container in a single layer. If you need to stack them, use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
How to Store Cookies with Icing
For warm or humid environments, store the cookies in the refrigerator to keep the frosting intact. Before serving, let the cookies come to room temperature for the best texture.
Pro Tips for Perfect Lofthouse Cookies
- Chill the Dough: Chilling makes the dough easier to handle and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
- Use a Rolling Pin with Guides: This ensures an even thickness for uniformly baked cookies.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mixing too much can make the cookies dense instead of light and cakey.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try adding lemon zest or using strawberry frosting for a fruity twist.
FAQs About Lofthouse Cookies
Why Are Lofthouse Cookies So Soft?
The sour cream and cornstarch in the recipe are key to achieving their signature soft, airy texture.
Can I Freeze Lofthouse Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze unfrosted cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Frost the cookies after thawing.
How Do I Keep Lofthouse Cookies Fresh?
Store the cookies in an airtight container. For extra freshness, place a slice of bread in the container to maintain moisture.
Lofthouse cookies are the ultimate combination of soft texture and sweet flavor. Whether you’re making them for a holiday, party, or just because, this easy recipe will guide you every step of the way. Try it today and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade Lofthouse cookies!