Lofthouse Cookies Recipe

If you’ve ever bitten into those delectably soft, thick, and colorful bakery-style treats, you know exactly what Lofthouse cookies are all about. Today, I’m sharing my tried-and-true Lofthouse Cookies Recipe that brings that same bakery magic right to your kitchen. Soft, pillowy, and covered with dreamy frosting that’s both sweet and slightly tangy—this recipe is fan-freaking-tastic and surprisingly easy to make. Stick with me, and I’ll walk you through every step so your cookies turn out just perfect, whether it’s your first time or your hundredth.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

The magic behind this Lofthouse Cookies Recipe starts with the ingredients — ones that bring the right balance of flavor and texture. Some small tweaks I’ve learned over the years, especially using sour cream, truly elevate the softness. When shopping, choose fresh, high-quality staples to get the best results.

• Unsalted Butter: Softened butter creates a tender crumb and creamy frosting; make sure it’s at room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and lightness when creamed with butter.
• Sour Cream: This ingredient keeps cookies moist and soft—don’t swap it out unless you want a totally different texture.
• Egg: Binds everything together and adds richness.
• Vanilla Extract: Essential for that warm, inviting flavor.
• Almond Extract: Gives a subtle nutty twist that makes these cookies stand out—optional but highly recommended.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure; avoid using bread or cake flour to keep the right balance.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These leavening agents help the cookies rise enough without spreading too thin.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
• Confectioners’ Sugar: Key for that silky, sweet frosting that spreads easily.
• Milk: Thins the frosting to the perfect consistency for spreading.
• Food Coloring & Sprinkles (Optional): Makes these cookies extra festive and fun, especially great for celebrations.

Make It Your Way

I love adding little twists to the classic Lofthouse Cookies Recipe to keep things fresh and tailored to taste. Whether you want a colorful holiday batch or a subtle flavor shift, this recipe is incredibly forgiving and open to personalization.

• Variation: One year, I swapped almond extract with peppermint for Christmas, and it was a delightful surprise that had my family asking for more.
• Dietary Modification: If you want to make these dairy-free, you can try coconut oil and dairy-free sour cream, but results will differ slightly in softness.
• Decorating: Feel free to swap sprinkles for edible glitter or mini chocolate chips depending on your mood or the occasion.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Lofthouse Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar to Perfection

Start by softening your butter—not melted, just room temp so it’s pliable. Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment or hand mixer, cream the butter and granulated sugar together until it’s light and fluffy. This usually takes around 2-3 minutes. You’ll know you’ve hit the mark when the mixture turns pale and smooth—that’s professional-level creaming right there!

Step 2: Blend in the Wet Ingredients

Next, add the sour cream, egg, vanilla, and almond extract into your creamed butter and sugar. Mix on medium speed just until everything is combined. Don’t overmix here — you want a homogenous batter without incorporating too much air.

Step 3: Sift and Incorporate Dry Ingredients

I always sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together to avoid any lumps and help distribute the leavening evenly. Add the dry mix in three batches, mixing well but not overworking the dough. You’re aiming for an even dough that’s supple but not sticky.

Step 4: Roll, Flatten, and Bake

Roll the dough into roughly 2-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet about 2 inches apart—you don’t want them merging into one giant cookie. Use a rolling pin or mini roller to gently flatten each ball to about a quarter to half an inch thick. This step is key to getting that classic Lofthouse look! Pop them into your preheated oven at 400°F for exactly 7 minutes—the cookies won’t brown, but that’s exactly what you want to preserve their soft texture.

Step 5: Cool Completely Before Frosting

This step can’t be rushed. Transfer your cookies to a cooling rack and let them cool fully so the frosting won’t melt and slide off. Patience here means perfect frosting later.

Step 6: Whip Up the Fluffy Frosting

Cream the softened butter with vanilla and almond extract until smooth. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, one cup at a time, beating after each addition to keep things airy. Mix in milk and optional food coloring until you get a fluffy, spreadable frosting. If it seems too stiff, add a tiny splash more milk; too thin, add a bit more sugar.

Step 7: Frost and Decorate

Spread your frosting generously over each cooled cookie and top with fun sprinkles if you like. I always go a little wild here—colorful sprinkles just bring joy and instantly elevate the cookies’ look!

How to Serve Lofthouse Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

When it comes to garnishes, I keep it simple and fun. Classic rainbow sprinkles are my go-to because they add a cheerful pop of color and a tiny crunch contrast. For holidays, I swap in themed sprinkles—think snowflakes for winter or hearts for Valentine’s. Sometimes I like to dust a little edible glitter for extra sparkle, which feels fancy but is super easy.

Side Dishes

Pair your Lofthouse cookies with a nice glass of cold milk (classic!) or a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat. If you’re serving at a party, I’ve found that fresh berries or a simple fruit salad brighten the spread and balance out all that sweetness wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I love arranging these cookies on colorful platters or even stacking them in a pretty tiered dessert stand. Wrapping a few up in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon makes a perfect homemade gift. Another fun idea is to make mini cookie sandwiches by adding a dollop of frosting between two cookies—so addictive!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Lofthouse cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep that soft texture, I separate layers with parchment paper. The cookies might firm up a little, but a quick minute in the microwave softens them right back up.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze your baked and fully cooled cookies without frosting on a baking sheet first. Once frozen, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and add fresh frosting or just enjoy unfrosted.

Reheating

To reheat, pop a cookie in the microwave for 10-15 seconds wrapped in a slightly damp paper towel to gently warm it and restore that fresh-baked softness. Then, add frosting if you froze the cookies unfrosted or enjoy as-is.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Lofthouse Cookies Recipe has become a staple in my kitchen not just because of how delicious it tastes, but because it brings such a comforting, nostalgic feel with every bite. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or sneaking a few when no one’s looking. I can’t recommend giving it a try enough—once you make these, they’ll quickly become your favorite go-to cookies. Trust me, your kitchen (and everyone you share these with) will thank you!

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