Lofthouse Cookies: Soft and Sweet Bakery-Style Treats

These Lofthouse Cookies are a delightful blast of sweetness and softness, with a hint of vanilla that makes them utterly irresistible. Perfect for festive occasions or a simple treat, these cookies embody the magic of a classic bakery-style dessert made right in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lofthouse Cookies are famous for their pillowy softness and creamy frosting, making every bite melt in your mouth. These cookies are a crowd-pleaser with their vibrant frosting and colorful sprinkles. They are ideal for any celebration, elevating the mood with their whimsical appearance and delightful taste.

The ease of making these cookies at home means you can enjoy bakery-quality treats whenever you crave them. Perfect for a baking session with kids or to impress guests with homemade charm, Lofthouse Cookies cater to all sweet tooth desires.

Context/Background

Originating from a small family-owned bakery, Lofthouse Cookies have charmed many with their unique texture and brightly colored frosting. These cookies are distinguished by their use of sour cream, which imparts their characteristic softness and subtle tang. Traditional American cookies, they are a staple in grocery stores during festive times, but making them at home allows for fresh and personalized sweetness.

Recipe Details

Serves: 24

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Frosting of choice
• Sprinkles

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with sour cream, until combined.
6. Using a cookie scoop, drop dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them apart.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes until cookies start to set but are still very pale.
8. Allow to cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Once cooled, frost with your favorite frosting and decorate with sprinkles.

Tips for Perfect Lofthouse Cookies

• For uniform cookie thickness, use a cookie scoop to portion the dough.
• Ensure not to overbake; cookies should remain soft and pale.
• Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting to avoid melting.
• Experiment with different frosting flavors for variety.

Serving Suggestions

Lofthouse Cookies are delightful on their own but pair beautifully with a glass of milk or hot chocolate. Serve them at parties or as a special treat in lunch boxes. They are also perfect for holiday cookie exchanges or as sweet gifts wrapped with love.

Storage and Leftovers

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator. The unfrosted cookies freeze well for up to three months, ready to be thawed and decorated when desired.

Final Thoughts

Don’t miss the chance to indulge in these homemade Lofthouse Cookies, offering the perfect balance of softness and sweetness. Whether for a family gathering, a festive celebration, or a simple treat to brighten your day, these cookies are a hit and easy to share happiness with loved ones.

Recipe Notes

• Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for an interesting twist.
• For a healthier option, substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
• Add a few drops of food coloring to the frosting for festive occasions.