If you have a sweet tooth and a soft spot for nostalgic bakery treats, then you are going to absolutely adore this Simple Lofthouse Sugar Cookies Recipe. These cookies capture that iconic bakery softness and rich vanilla flavor we all crave, topped with colorful frosting and sprinkles that make every bite a joyful celebration. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to brighten an ordinary day, this recipe blends classic ingredients and a few smart tricks to deliver irresistible cookies that melt in your mouth and brighten your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how a handful of simple pantry staples come together to create these velvety, soft sugar cookies. Each ingredient plays a starring role in building that perfect texture and flavor — from the cornstarch that ensures a tender crumb, to the almond extract that adds that subtle, authentic Lofthouse twist.
- Cornstarch (1 tbsp): This key ingredient softens the dough, turning your cookies heavenly and cake-like.
- Sour cream (1/4 cup): Brings just the right tang and moisture to keep your cookies tender and fresh.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Provides sweetness and helps in achieving the perfect lightness in texture.
- Baking powder (1/2 tsp): Gives those gentle lifts without overpowering the delicate crumb.
- Almond extract (1/4 tsp, optional): Adds that classic, irresistible hint of nutty flavor fans expect from Lofthouse cookies.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Ensures richness and smoothness throughout the cookie dough.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
- Egg (1, room temperature): Provides structure and moisture to bind the ingredients perfectly.
- All-purpose flour (2.25 cups): The foundation of the cookie, I recommend King Arthur for consistent results.
- Vanilla extract (1.5 tsp): Infuses warm, comforting aroma to every bite.
- Baking soda (1/4 tsp): Works with the sour cream to create that soft texture everyone loves.
- Milk (2 tbsp): Adds creaminess to the frosting, helping it spread smoothly.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened for frosting): Creates that silky, rich base for your frosting.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp for frosting): Enhances the sweet, creamy frosting flavor.
- Powdered sugar (2 cups, sifted): Sweetens the frosting while keeping it smooth and lump-free.
- Food coloring: Gel food colors offer vibrant hues that make your cookies pop visually.
- Sprinkles or pearl sugar: For that authentic Lofthouse look and extra touch of fun.
How to Make Simple Lofthouse Sugar Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Start by beating your softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale. This step is crucial as it aerates the dough, helping create that tender cookie texture you’re after. It’s like laying the perfect foundation for your cookie masterpiece.
Step 2: Add Egg, Sour Cream, and Extracts
Next, mix in the egg, sour cream, vanilla extract, and the almond extract if you’re using it. The sour cream is a secret weapon here; it adds tangy moisture that softens the crumb, while the extracts give your cookies that signature bakery flavor.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients Separately
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. The cornstarch is what gives these cookies that tender, almost cake-like feel that makes them stand apart.
Step 4: Gradually Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet
Now slowly add the dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don’t overwork the dough — that’s the key to avoiding tough cookies. Once everything is blended, refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes to make it easier to handle and to help the flavors meld.
Step 5: Shape and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop or roll the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 7 to 8 minutes until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Let them cool completely before frosting.
Step 6: Prepare the Frosting
While your cookies cool, whip up the frosting by beating the softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. Separate portions into bowls if you want multiple colors, adding gel food coloring to achieve your favorite shades. The frosting should be creamy and easy to spread.
Step 7: Frost and Decorate
Finally, frost each cookie with a generous layer of icing and sprinkle on your sprinkles or pearl sugar for that authentic, celebratory look. Let the frosting set a little before enjoying.
How to Serve Simple Lofthouse Sugar Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the classic colorful sprinkles and pearl sugar, you can add edible glitter or tiny candy pearls for an extra dose of sparkle. Fresh flowers or small edible gold flakes can also take these cookies from everyday sweet treat to elegant party centerpiece.
Side Dishes
Simple Lofthouse Sugar Cookies are perfect with a cold glass of milk, but they also pair wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or coffee to balance their sweet richness. For a brunch or dessert platter, serve alongside fresh fruit or lightly whipped cream for variety.
Creative Ways to Present
Layer them on a tiered cake stand, wrap them up in colorful cellophane tied with ribbons as delightful gifts, or even sandwich two cookies together with frosting for an irresistible twist your guests will rave about. Presentation adds an extra layer of enjoyment to these already stunning cookies.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Placing a slice of bread in the container helps keep them soft and fresh. Their softness and flavor get better after a day or two, making them ideal to bake ahead.
Freezing
You can freeze the unfrosted cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freezing until solid, then transferring to a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw at room temperature before frosting. Likewise, you can freeze frosted cookies on a tray and then transfer to an airtight container to preserve the decoration.
Reheating
If you prefer warm cookies, gently heat them in a microwave for about 10 seconds or in a low oven (300°F) for a few minutes. Just be careful not to overheat or dry them out. Warmed cookies bring out a delightful softness and make the frosting extra irresistible.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but make sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to maintain the soft texture. The cookies might have a slightly different crumb but should still be delicious.
Is it necessary to use almond extract?
While almond extract is optional, it adds an authentic depth of flavor that resembles traditional Lofthouse cookies. If you don’t have it on hand, vanilla extract alone will still yield delicious cookies.
Can I use butter substitutes?
Unsalted butter gives the best flavor and texture, but you can experiment with plant-based butters or margarine if needed. Just keep in mind that some substitutes might alter the taste or softness slightly.
How do I make the frosting less sweet?
You can reduce the powdered sugar slightly or add a tiny pinch of salt or cream cheese to balance the sweetness. Adjusting the frosting ensures it complements the cookies without overwhelming them.
What is the best way to get the cookie shape to be perfectly round?
Chilling the dough before baking helps prevent spreading. Using a cookie scoop or gently rolling balls and flattening them slightly creates uniform shapes. Parchment paper or silicone mats also promote even baking and easy release.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about this Simple Lofthouse Sugar Cookies Recipe that brings warmth, fun, and a little nostalgia to any kitchen. With its tender texture, smooth frosting, and those colorful finishing touches, it’s a foolproof way to impress family and friends or just treat yourself to something special. Go ahead, bake a batch and watch smiles light up around your home.
Print
Simple Lofthouse Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (approximately 12-16 cookies depending on size)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Simple Lofthouse Sugar Cookies are soft, cake-like, and topped with a creamy vanilla frosting, perfect for any occasion. Made with cornstarch and sour cream for moisture and tang, these cookies capture the classic Lofthouse texture and flavor. They are easy to prepare and decorated with vibrant gel food coloring and sprinkles for a festive finish.
Ingredients
Cookie Ingredients
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp almond extract (optional but recommended)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 egg (room temperature)
- 2.25 cups all-purpose flour (King Arthur recommended)
- 1.5 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
Frosting Ingredients
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted to remove lumps)
- food coloring (gel colors work best)
- sprinkles or pearl sugar for authentic look
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This creates the base of your cookie dough and ensures even distribution of leavening agents.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step incorporates air, resulting in a softer cookie texture.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg, sour cream, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until fully combined. The sour cream adds moisture and tanginess, essential for the classic Lofthouse texture.
- Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the dough tender.
- Shape the Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
- Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 7-8 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers still look slightly underbaked. This ensures a soft, cake-like texture.
- Cool Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare Frosting: In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well. Add milk and vanilla extract, and beat until smooth and fluffy. Divide frosting into bowls if desired and add gel food coloring for vibrant results.
- Decorate Cookies: Spread the frosting generously on each cooled cookie. Top with sprinkles or pearl sugar to achieve the authentic Lofthouse look. Let the frosting set before serving.
Notes
- Make sure all ingredients, especially butter, egg, and sour cream, are at room temperature for best mixing results.
- Sifting powdered sugar prevents lumps in the frosting, producing a smoother texture.
- Using gel food coloring avoids thinning the frosting compared to liquid food coloring.
- Cookies are best enjoyed within 2-3 days, stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute sour cream and butter with plant-based alternatives and verify ingredients accordingly.
