When I sunk my teeth into the very first Frosted Lofthouse Cookies, it was a kitchen moment that stayed with me. It all started when I wanted to recreate the soft sugar cookies my cousin raved about—they sang praises about how buttery and fluffy these cookies felt, topped with that dreamy vanilla buttercream frosting. But in my early kitchen adventures, my versions fell flat: either too dense or the frosting too sweet. That challenge taught me much about balancing flavors and textures so your Frosted Lofthouse Cookies become a genuine family favorite.
What truly sealed this as a household staple was my little one’s excited exclamation: “Mom, these cookies taste like a hug!” That unexpected reaction made me realize these Frosted Lofthouse Cookies create a special way to gather around the kitchen table, sharing authentic flavors and warmth without fuss. I’ve spent seasons tweaking the Lofthouse cookie recipe to land that perfect cakey-soft chew—something I know a lot of fellow flavor seekers look for in their buttery sugar cookies.
This journey isn’t just about a cookie; it’s about how Frosted Lofthouse Cookies can be that simple, sweet connection on busy days or celebrations. If you’re seeking a recipe that fits your family’s love for genuine, nourishing meals with that soft sugar cookie base and rich vanilla buttercream frosting, you’re in the right place. I’m here to share how this Frosted Lofthouse Cookies recipe became my go-to for bringing smiles around the table, and I invite you to make it your own flavor victory too.
And if you’re intrigued by other sweet but wholesome treats, you might enjoy my takes on Halloween Crinkle Cookies or these creative Zucchini Chocolate Chip Cookies. Both celebrate how simple ingredients can yield big family smiles just like these cozy Frosted Lofthouse Cookies.
INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:
For the best flavor in your Frosted Lofthouse Cookies, trust in fresh, quality ingredients that honor the classic buttery sugar cookie taste with a gentle chew. Here’s what you’ll want to gather:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour – Choose a good-quality, unbleached flour for a clean, soft crumb.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Provides just the right lift to keep your Frosted Lofthouse Cookies soft and cakey.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – Helps with puffiness without heaviness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and highlights the vanilla.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – My family swears by using real butter for that signature buttery sugar cookie flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar – The foundation for sweetness that lets your vanilla buttercream frosting shine.
- 1 large egg – Essential for binding and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – A flavor must-have that deepens every bite of these Frosted Lofthouse Cookies.
- 1/2 cup sour cream – Adds moisture and softness, a little-known ingredient that uplifts the cookie’s tenderness beautifully.
For the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Quality butter is what makes this frosting dreamy.
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted – Gives that smooth, sweet finish.
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract – The star that spices up the frosting without overpowering.
- 2-3 tablespoons whole milk – To reach just the right creamy consistency.
Look for your ingredients at trustworthy local markets or organic sections. For example, I’ve found the freshest vanilla beans and pure extracts at specialty grocers near me, which added a nuanced depth to these Frosted Lofthouse Cookies that my family notices every time. If you can’t locate sour cream, plain Greek yogurt can be a great alternative, keeping your cookies moist with a subtle tang.
And here’s a flavor secret for your Frosted Lofthouse Cookies: adding sour cream to the dough transforms a simple buttery sugar cookie into a chewy frosted cookie experience, tender but with that perfect bite. My family loves the creamy balance that frosting brings on top, complementing the soft sugar cookie base without cloying sweetness.
When you’re prepping your ingredients, make sure butter and eggs are at room temperature. This ensures your cookie dough mixes evenly and your Frosted Lofthouse Cookies come out perfectly tender every time.
For inspiration on soft sugar cookies with luscious frosting, see the Soft Frosted Sugar Cookies recipe that I blend flavors from, and the Super Soft Frosted Sugar Cookies guide for handy tips on achieving that tender texture.
Trust me, this Frosted Lofthouse Cookies ingredient list focuses on quality over quantity for authentic flavors!
Let’s Create This Together!
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to keep your Frosted Lofthouse Cookies from sticking and ensure even baking.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. This dry mix sets the stage for soft sugar cookies with balanced rise and chew.
3. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup softened unsalted butter and 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar together on medium speed until fluffy. This might take 3-4 minutes—don’t rush! This step creates the light texture crucial for those melt-in-your-mouth Frosted Lofthouse Cookies.
4. Beat in 1 egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Blend in 1/2 cup sour cream for that subtle tang and moisture that lifts the chew in each Frosted Lofthouse Cookie.
6. Gradually add in the flour mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Overmixing can make your Frosted Lofthouse Cookies tough.
7. Scoop the dough onto your prepared sheets using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly to encourage even rounds.
8. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are set but centers remain soft. The aroma will fill your kitchen with a warm, vanilla scent—that’s your cue!
9. Remove from oven. Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely before frosting. Patience here means your vanilla buttercream frosting won’t melt!
10. For the frosting, beat 1/2 cup softened butter until smooth. Gradually add 2 cups powdered sugar and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Add milk one tablespoon at a time to reach your desired creamy consistency.
11. Frost each cooled cookie generously. Our family loves a thick layer—this vanilla buttercream frosting makes these Frosted Lofthouse Cookies feel like a special treat.
12. For an extra touch, sprinkle pastel sanding sugars or edible glitter to bring playful color.
In my kitchen, this flavorful Frosted Lofthouse Cookies typically takes about 45 minutes from start to finish, including cooling and frosting. It’s a wonderful way to slow down and savor time with family while filling the kitchen with nostalgic smells and warmth.
A little kitchen adventure taught me that flattening this dough just right, not too much, preserves that perfect cakey soft lift. Your Frosted Lofthouse Cookies should fill the kitchen with amazing aromas by now, inviting family to gather close.
For a family-tested twist, I’ve shared this recipe in group forums like the Best Christmas Cookie and Candy Recipes community. It’s been fun hearing fellow cooks’ flavor takes that make each batch truly their own.
How We Love to Enjoy This!
Our family looks forward to these Frosted Lofthouse Cookies as a cozy after-dinner treat or a festive party addition. The soft sugar cookies paired with vanilla buttercream frosting make a buttery sweet bite that perfectly complements a cup of warm milk or spiced tea. The chewy frosted cookies are a hit for school lunchbox surprises or holiday cookie exchanges.
We’ve found these Frosted Lofthouse Cookies pair beautifully with simple fruit salads or a scoop of vanilla ice cream when guests come over. These little touches let the soft sugar cookie flavors shine without overwhelming anyone’s palate.
Presentation-wise, I love stacking these cookies on a rustic wooden platter sprinkled lightly with crushed nuts or dried flower petals for authentic beauty that highlights the classic vanilla buttercream frosting. Kids especially enjoy decorating their cookies with colorful sprinkles or edible glitter.
Seasonally, we switch our vanilla buttercream frosting to peppermint flavor during winter holidays or lemon zest in spring for a fresh twist. That variation keeps the Frosted Lofthouse Cookies tradition dynamic and something everyone eagerly anticipates.
Leftover cookies transform surprisingly well when gently warmed — the frosting softens just enough to pair wonderfully with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce. It’s a charming way to avoid waste and enjoy those chewy frosted cookies again.
The family always gathers quickly when these aromatic Frosted Lofthouse Cookies appear alongside my other favorites like Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies. It’s the kind of flavor combo that connects generations through our simple, shared love of wholesome sweets.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Q: Does this Frosted Lofthouse Cookies recipe satisfy hearty appetites or is it more for light snacking?
A: It absolutely satisfies hearty appetites! The buttery sugar cookies have a soft chew that fills you up, while the vanilla buttercream frosting adds lush richness. My family often asks for seconds after a big meal.
Q: What if someone in my family prefers milder sweetness in their Frosted Lofthouse Cookies?
A: Easy fix—try reducing the sugar in the frosting by a third or swapping granulated sugar for coconut sugar in the cookies for a gentler sweetness. These adjustments keep your chewy frosted cookies still delicious and inviting.
Q: Can I prepare this Frosted Lofthouse Cookies recipe ahead for busy weeks?
A: Definitely! The cookie dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days before baking. The Frosted Lofthouse Cookies themselves frost up best right before serving, but the cookies store well unfrosted in airtight tins for several days, keeping their soft texture.
Q: I’ve heard some Lofthouse cookies are very dense. How do you get yours soft and light?
A: The trick is the combination of baking soda, baking powder, and sour cream. This trio gives your Frosted Lofthouse Cookies that tender crumb and chew without heaviness, unlike some denser recipes. Careful not to overmix the dough to keep it light.
Q: Is it possible to make Frosted Lofthouse Cookies without butter?
A: Butter is key for authentic flavor here, but you can try a high-quality margarine blend. The flavor won’t be quite the same, but it can still yield soft sugar cookies with nice texture.
Q: How thick should I spread the vanilla buttercream frosting?
A: Generous frosting is what brings these cookies alive! About 1/4 inch thick works well, giving you that creamy, buttery balance with every bite of the soft cookies.
Q: Any tips for making the vanilla buttercream frosting extra smooth?
A: Sift your powdered sugar before mixing and beat the frosting on low speed first, then higher speed as it comes together. Adding milk gradually helps you hit that perfect creamy vanilla buttercream frosting texture ideal for Frosted Lofthouse Cookies.
Q: Can these cookies be frozen?
A: Yes! Freeze unfrosted cookies in a single layer then pack in freezer bags. When ready, thaw and frost as usual for fresh-tasting Frosted Lofthouse Cookies. You can also freeze assembled cookies on a tray, but freezing unfrosted offers best texture.
For more soft cookie inspirations, check out this Super Soft Frosted Sugar Cookies recipe or similar buttercream frosted cookie recipes like those found in the Butternut Bakery blog.
Final Kitchen Wisdom:
These Frosted Lofthouse Cookies are more than a sweet treat; they support my family’s goal of nourishing together with authentic flavor and simple, thoughtful ingredients. They bring warmth and joy without undue fuss, perfectly fitting our everyday and special meal moments.
My Frosted Lofthouse Cookies Flavor Secrets:
- Always use real butter and fresh vanilla extract for that classic buttery sugar cookie taste.
- Adding sour cream to the dough gives a moist, chewy texture distinguishing these from ordinary soft sugar cookies.
- Thick vanilla buttercream frosting is non-negotiable—this frosting seals the deal in flavor and texture balance.
Over time, I’ve discovered family favorites: my youngest loves the classic vanilla buttercream, my husband prefers a hint of almond extract swapped into the dough, and my parents enjoy a lemon zest frosting variation. What a joy to offer this flexibility with one basic Lofthouse cookie recipe!
I encourage you to experiment with these Frosted Lofthouse Cookies and make them the signature cookie that brings your family together. The simple joy of baking and sharing chewy frosted cookies with loved ones is a beautiful flavor victory worth every moment.
If you want more wholesome sweet inspiration, visit my takes on Halloween Crinkle Cookies, Zucchini Chocolate Chip Cookies, and Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies. Here’s to your joyful kitchen adventures with Frosted Lofthouse Cookies!
Frosted Lofthouse Cookies
Soft, fluffy Frosted Lofthouse Cookies topped with a creamy vanilla frosting and colorful sprinkles, perfect for festive occasions and sweet cravings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- For the frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- Sprinkles for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition; mix in vanilla and almond extract if using.
- Alternately add dry ingredients and sour cream to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Drop cookie dough by rounded tablespoons onto prepared baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 9–11 minutes or until edges are set but centers are soft.
- Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- To make frosting, beat butter until creamy; gradually add powdered sugar.
- Mix in vanilla extract and heavy cream until smooth and spreadable.
- Frost cooled cookies and decorate with sprinkles as desired.
Notes
For extra softness, store cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread to keep them moist for several days.