Lofthouse Frosted Sugar Cookies Recipe

If you’ve ever craved the soft, melt-in-your-mouth joy of classic bakery cookies but wanted to bring that magic right into your own kitchen, then you absolutely need to try this Lofthouse Frosted Sugar Cookies Recipe. These cookies are everything you love about a sugar cookie—pillowy soft texture, just the right hint of vanilla, and a buttery frosting that’s sweet, creamy, and begging to be decorated. Once you get the hang of this recipe, you’ll find yourself reaching for these cookies whenever a special treat is needed. Plus, they look fantastic all decked out with colorful sprinkles, making them perfect for birthdays, holidays, or anytime you want to brighten someone’s day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Lofthouse Frosted Sugar Cookies Recipe lies in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating those tender cookies and luscious frosting everyone raves about.

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the cookies their soft yet sturdy base.
• ¼ cup cornstarch: Adds a delicate tenderness and a subtle melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Ensures the cookies rise just enough for fluffy softness.
• ½ tsp baking soda: Contributes to the perfect crumb and slight spread.
• ½ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the cookie flavor.
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened: The rich, creamy heart of the dough for that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens while helping to create a tender crumb.
• 2 large eggs: Binds everything together with moisture and structure.
• ½ cup sour cream: Adds moisture and a subtle tang which lightens the flavor.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract: Boosts that warm, fragrant sweetness we all adore.
• 2 ½ cups powdered sugar: The base of the silky frosting that crowns each cookie.
• 2–3 tbsp milk: Helps achieve the perfect frosting spreadability.
• Food coloring (optional): Turns your frosting into a canvas of fun and creativity.
• Sprinkles for decorating: Because no Lofthouse cookie is truly complete without that joyful finishing touch.

How to Make Lofthouse Frosted Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. This ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed, helping your cookies bake evenly and remain soft.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key to incorporating air, which translates into the soft texture we love.

Step 3: Add Eggs, Sour Cream, and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time for proper emulsification, then mix in sour cream and vanilla extract. The sour cream adds moisture and tenderness that give the cookies that signature soft crumb.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually stir in the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can make the cookies tough, so gentle is best here.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour. This rest period helps the dough firm up, prevents excess spreading during baking, and deepens flavor.

Step 6: Prepare Baking Sheets and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.

Step 7: Shape and Bake the Cookies

Roll the chilled dough into balls, gently flattening each one to form discs. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, watching carefully so you don’t overbake—the cookies should be soft and slightly pale, never browned.

Step 8: Cool Completely

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool fully on a wire rack. This step is important since frosting warm cookies can cause it to melt and become messy.

Step 9: Make the Frosting

Beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Add a few drops of food coloring if you want to play with fun shades. Whip until smooth and spreadable.

Step 10: Frost and Decorate

Pipe or spread the frosting on each cooled cookie, then top with sprinkles to add that classic Lofthouse charm. Now you have beautiful, bakery-worthy sugar cookies!

How to Serve Lofthouse Frosted Sugar Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

Besides the traditional sprinkles, consider adding edible glitter, mini chocolate chips, or colored sugar crystals for extra sparkle and texture. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also give a whimsical, snowy look perfect for holidays.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, vanilla almond milk, or even a cup of rich hot cocoa. If you want something more indulgent, a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side elevates this treat into a decadent dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack them on a decorative platter layered with parchment for a casual gathering, or package them in clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons for thoughtful homemade gifts. You could also create a cookie platter by adding cut-out cookies and a variety of frostings in different colors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After frosting, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They remain soft and fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for prepping in advance of holiday parties or family get-togethers.

Freezing

If you want to freeze these beauties, do so before frosting. Wrap the cooled cookies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them completely before frosting for the best results.

Reheating

These cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature, but if you’d like to warm them slightly, pop a cookie (without frosting) in the microwave for 10 seconds. Avoid reheating frosted cookies as the frosting may melt and lose its shape.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, you can use salted butter but reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe to avoid oversalting your cookies. Unsalted butter is preferred because it gives you better control over seasoning.

Why do the cookies need to chill before baking?

Chilling the dough firms it up, which prevents too much spreading when baked, helping maintain that signature thick, soft texture typical of the Lofthouse style.

Can I substitute sour cream with another ingredient?

Yes! Greek yogurt makes a great substitute for sour cream and provides similar moisture and tang, keeping your cookies tender and flavorful.

How do I make the frosting less sweet?

Try reducing the powdered sugar slightly or adding a pinch of salt to the frosting. You can also incorporate a bit of cream cheese for tanginess and a more balanced sweetness.

Can I make mini versions of the Lofthouse Frosted Sugar Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! Just roll smaller dough balls and reduce baking time to about 6 to 8 minutes. Mini cookies make adorable bite-sized treats for parties or lunchboxes.

Final Thoughts

This Lofthouse Frosted Sugar Cookies Recipe is a true game-changer when you want tender, sugary comfort that feels both homemade and bakery-perfect. The balance of ingredients and simple steps make it approachable for bakers of all skill levels, and the frosting twist brings the magic to life. I can’t wait for you to try it and create smiles with every bite!

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