If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into a cloud-like, soft, and sweet treat that feels like a hug from your childhood, then this Lofthouse Sugar Cookies Recipe is about to become your new obsession. These cookies are famously tender, with just the right balance of sweet buttery flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Their iconic buttery frosting and optional sprinkles make them feel festive and fun, turning any ordinary day into a special occasion. Get ready to bring some cheerful sweetness into your kitchen with a recipe that’s simple to make, yet absolutely delightful to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind these cookies is in the simplicity of the ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture and flavor that makes Lofthouse sugar cookies so beloved. From the softness of butter to the delicate lightness provided by cornstarch, here’s everything that comes together to make this recipe shine.
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base that holds your cookies together with just the right structure.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Helps give the cookies a gentle, tender rise.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: Adds a subtle lift and softness.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
- 4 tbsp cornstarch: The secret to that signature soft, cakey texture.
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates rich flavor and silky dough.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a slight crisp on the edges.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Provides warm and inviting flavor notes.
- 1 egg: Binds ingredients while adding moisture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting): Makes the frosting creamy and fluffy.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and adds smooth finish.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting): Enhances frosting flavor.
- 3–4 tbsp milk: Adjusts frosting consistency to perfect spreadability.
- 1/2 tbsp corn syrup: Adds gloss and smooth texture to frosting.
- Sprinkles (optional): For a burst of color and festivity.
- Food coloring (optional): To make frosting whimsical and fun.
How to Make Lofthouse Sugar Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready when your dough is mixed. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and perfect cookies every time. Then whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cornstarch in a medium bowl. This blend of dry ingredients creates the ideal foundation for those tender cookies we all love.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until it’s light, creamy, and smooth. This step is essential because the creamed sugar incorporates air into the dough, helping create that soft crumb texture essential to the Lofthouse style.
Step 3: Add the Egg and Flavor
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is combined and smooth. These ingredients bring moisture and warmth to the dough, ensuring each bite is flavorful and comforting.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to your butter mixture, stirring just until everything comes together. Be careful not to overmix here – a gentle hand keeps your cookies soft and light, rather than tough.
Step 5: Shape and Flatten the Cookies
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough into balls and place them 2 inches apart on your lined baking sheet. Then, gently flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass or your hands to create thick, even rounds perfect for baking evenly.
Step 6: Bake until Soft and Slightly Golden
Bake your cookies for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep a close eye on them — the edges should just start to turn golden, while the centers remain soft and tender. This balance is what gives the cookies their signature melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 7: Cool Completely Before Decorating
Allow the cookies to cool a few minutes on the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial because frosting warm cookies can cause the frosting to melt and slide off.
Step 8: Make the Creamy Frosting
Beat the softened butter with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, corn syrup, and milk, adjusting the milk quantity for a perfectly spreadable texture. The frosting should be thick, smooth, and glossy — just like that classic Lofthouse frosting.
Step 9: Frost and Decorate Your Cookies
Once cooled, spread or pipe the frosting onto each cookie. Add sprinkles or food coloring to bring joy and character to your batch, making your cookies festive or simply cheerful in appearance.
How to Serve Lofthouse Sugar Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh sprinkles or edible glitter add playfulness and sparkle, making your cookies irresistible. For a fun twist, try crushing candy canes for a peppermint kick or adding a few colored sugar crystals to enhance the visual appeal.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a cold glass of milk, a cup of hot tea, or even coffee for an indulgent breakfast treat. For gatherings, consider serving alongside fruit-flavored lemonade or a creamy hot chocolate to balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Layer your frosted cookies on a pretty platter with edible flowers or fresh berries for a stunning dessert table display. You can also use cookie cutters to shape dough before baking for themed occasions, like hearts for Valentine’s Day or stars for the holidays.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After frosting, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delicious for up to five days, keeping their flavor and texture just right for sharing or snacking later.
Freezing
You can freeze both unfrosted and frosted cookies. For unfrosted, freeze dough balls on a tray then transfer to a bag. For frosted cookies, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then stack with parchment between layers in an airtight container. Frozen cookies last up to three months.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy frozen cookies, allow them to thaw at room temperature. Avoid microwaving as it may affect texture. For a just-baked feel, warm them briefly in a low oven (about 300°F) for 5 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to prevent the cookies from becoming too salty. Unsalted butter lets you control the exact salt level for best results.
What makes these cookies so soft and fluffy?
The addition of cornstarch and the right balance of leavening agents contribute to their tender, cakey texture. Cornstarch is the key secret that gives these cookies their signature melt-in-your-mouth feel.
How do I store decorated cookies to keep the frosting intact?
Use an airtight container and separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Keep them at room temperature and avoid stacking heavily decorated cookies to keep the frosting from smudging.
Can I use a stand mixer or hand mixer to make the dough?
Absolutely! A mixer helps cream the butter and sugar efficiently, but you can also whisk by hand if you prefer. Just ensure your butter is soft to make mixing easier.
Are these cookies suitable for making into sandwich cookies?
Definitely! Their soft texture and frosting make them perfect for sandwich cookies. Add a layer of frosting between two cookies for an extra indulgent treat your guests will love.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Lofthouse Sugar Cookies Recipe will become a cherished favorite in your baking repertoire. The combination of soft, buttery texture and creamy frosting is simply unbeatable. Whether you’re baking for holidays, birthdays, or just because, these cookies spread joy in every bite. So, grab your ingredients and let yourself be delighted by the simple magic of homemade Lofthouse sugar cookies!
