Lofthouse cookies. Just the name conjures images of soft, pillowy cookies topped with a thick layer of frosting and sprinkles. And who doesn’t love a Lofthouse cookie? They’re the perfect treat for any occasion, from birthdays to holidays to just a simple afternoon pick-me-up. This guide will provide you with the ultimate Lofthouse Cookies Recipe, along with tips and tricks to achieve that signature bakery-style perfection. You’ll learn how to make these delightful cookies from scratch, guaranteeing a taste of pure happiness in every bite. Ready to bake? Let’s get started!
Table Of Contents
The Secret to Soft and Chewy Lofthouse Cookies
The key to achieving that signature Lofthouse texture lies in a few key ingredients and techniques. First, using cake flour contributes to the cookies’ light and airy structure. Imagine biting into a cloud – that’s the kind of lightness we’re aiming for. Second, incorporating sour cream adds a subtle tang and helps keep the cookies incredibly moist. This is a trick I learned from my grandmother, a true baking wizard, and it’s never failed me. Finally, chilling the dough before baking prevents the cookies from spreading too thin, ensuring they remain thick and chewy. Think of it like giving the dough a little time-out to relax and solidify its shape before hitting the hot oven.
Mastering the Lofthouse Cookies Recipe
This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, even for beginners. Don’t be intimidated! With a little patience and attention to detail, you’ll be churning out bakery-worthy Lofthouse cookies in no time.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups cake flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed for a consistent texture.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. I like to use an electric mixer for this step, but you can certainly do it by hand if you prefer a good arm workout!
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
- Cover the dough and chill for at least 30 minutes. This crucial step helps prevent the cookies from spreading too thin during baking. While the dough chills, you can prepare your frosting and sprinkles.
- Once chilled, roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them so they don’t overbake.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting Your Lofthouse Cookies
What’s a Lofthouse cookie without its signature frosting? While you can use store-bought frosting in a pinch, making your own is surprisingly easy and allows you to customize the flavor and sweetness to your liking. A simple buttercream frosting is the classic choice, but you can experiment with cream cheese frosting or even a flavored glaze.
Simple Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional)
Beat the butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the milk, and beat until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to achieve your desired color.
Frosting Lofthouse Cookies
Tips for Lofthouse Cookie Success
- Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the ingredients blend together smoothly and creates a more consistent texture.
- Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in tough cookies.
- Chill the dough: This is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too thin.
- Use parchment paper: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Don’t overbake: Overbaked cookies will be dry and crumbly.
Variations on the Classic Lofthouse Cookies Recipe
Once you’ve mastered the classic Lofthouse cookies recipe, why not get creative and try some variations? Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the dough for a subtle nutty flavor. Incorporate some mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor. Or, get festive and use holiday-themed sprinkles for a special occasion. The possibilities are endless!
Lofthouse Cookie Variations
FAQ: Your Lofthouse Cookie Questions Answered
Q: Can I freeze Lofthouse cookie dough? A: Absolutely! Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Q: How do I store frosted Lofthouse cookies? A: Store frosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Q: Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour? A: While cake flour is recommended for the best texture, you can substitute all-purpose flour. However, the cookies may be slightly denser.
Baking the Perfect Lofthouse Cookie: A Sweet Conclusion
Baking Lofthouse cookies is more than just following a recipe; it’s about creating a moment of joy and sharing it with those you love. With this ultimate Lofthouse cookies recipe and these helpful tips, you’re well on your way to baking cookies that are as delicious as they are beautiful. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of homemade Lofthouse cookies! Share your baking triumphs (and any questions you might have) in the comments below – I can’t wait to hear about your Lofthouse cookie adventures!
