Baking has an almost magical way of filling your home with warmth, comfort, and an irresistible aroma. There’s something truly special about creating soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that bring smiles to the faces of friends and family. If you’re craving a treat that combines fluffy texture with rich, creamy sweetness, Soft Lofthouse Cookies with Sweet Frosting are exactly what you need.
These iconic cookies, with their pillowy softness and colorful frosting, have long been a beloved favorite. Whether it’s a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or simply a fun baking session with loved ones, these cookies are bound to bring joy to all who taste them. While store-bought versions are popular, nothing beats the taste and freshness of a homemade batch made with quality ingredients and a touch of love.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step of making these delightful cookies from scratch. From preparing the perfect cookie dough to creating the rich, spreadable frosting, we have you covered. We’ll also share tips and tricks to ensure the best results, as well as fun ideas for decorating your cookies for any occasion. So, preheat your oven, grab your mixing bowls, and let’s dive into the world of Soft Lofthouse Cookies with Sweet Frosting!
Why You’ll Love This Soft Lofthouse Cookie Recipe
Lofthouse cookies have an undeniable charm that sets them apart from other cookies. Their soft, cake-like texture and sweet frosting make them stand out as a must-have treat for all kinds of celebrations. If you’ve ever enjoyed the store-bought versions, you’ll be thrilled to know that homemade Lofthouse cookies are far superior in both taste and texture. Not only do they taste fresher, but they also allow you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors and colors.
Fluffy Texture and Sweet Frosting
One of the most notable features of Lofthouse cookies is their light, airy texture. Unlike traditional chewy or crunchy cookies, these have a unique softness, almost like miniature cakes. This is achieved through the perfect combination of cake flour, butter, and shortening, which results in a delicate crumb that melts in your mouth. The cookies are then topped with a luscious frosting made with butter, shortening, and powdered sugar for the ultimate balance of sweetness and smooth texture.
Versatility for Any Occasion
Lofthouse cookies are perfect for any event. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a holiday gathering, or simply treating yourself on a quiet afternoon, these cookies never fail to impress. Their simple yet elegant design makes them easily customizable—you can change the frosting color, add fun sprinkles, or decorate them to match a theme. These cookies are not just delicious; they’re also a festive and eye-catching addition to any celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Soft Lofthouse Cookies with Sweet Frosting
Before you begin baking, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients. The good news? These ingredients are simple, easy to find, and you might already have most of them in your kitchen!
For the Cookies:
- 2 3/4 cups cake flour – Cake flour gives these cookies their signature soft and fluffy texture. If you don’t have cake flour, you can make your own by substituting a mixture of all-purpose flour and cornstarch.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the cookies rise and stay light and airy.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened) – Adds richness and depth of flavor to the dough.
- 1/3 cup vegetable shortening – Prevents spreading and contributes to the soft, cake-like texture.
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar – Provides sweetness and helps with the texture.
- 1 large egg – Adds structure and moisture to the dough.
- 1 large egg white – Helps lighten the texture and contributes to fluffiness.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Adds a warm, aromatic flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract – Enhances the flavor with a subtle, nutty undertone.
For the Frosting:
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter (softened) – Creates a creamy, smooth frosting.
- 1/3 cup vegetable shortening – Helps stabilize the frosting.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sugar.
- 3-3.5 cups powdered sugar – Makes the frosting thick and spreadable.
- 3-4 tablespoons milk or cream – Adjusts the frosting consistency.
- Food coloring (optional) – Adds a pop of color.
- Sprinkles (optional) – For extra fun and festivity.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Soft Lofthouse Cookies
Making the Cookies:
- Sift the Dry Ingredients – In a large bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting helps remove any lumps and ensures even distribution.
- Cream the Butter, Shortening, and Sugar – In another bowl, beat the softened butter, vegetable shortening, and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the Wet Ingredients – Mix in the egg, egg white, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth and creamy.
- Incorporate the Dry Ingredients – Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Chill the Dough – Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
- Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Shape the Dough – Roll the chilled dough into balls, about 2 tablespoons each.
- Flatten the Cookies – Lightly press down each ball with a flour-dipped cup.
- Bake – Bake for 9-11 minutes until the edges turn slightly golden.
- Cool Completely – Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before frosting.
Making the Frosting:
- Beat Butter and Shortening – In a bowl, beat the butter and shortening until fluffy.
- Add Flavoring – Mix in the vanilla extract and salt.
- Incorporate Powdered Sugar – Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.
- Adjust Consistency – Add milk or cream to reach your desired texture.
- Color and Decorate – Add food coloring and mix well.
Decorating the Cookies:
- Once cooled, spread frosting evenly on each cookie using a flat knife.
- Add sprinkles for extra color and fun.
Tips for Perfect Soft Lofthouse Cookies
- Chill the Dough – This prevents spreading and ensures a soft texture.
- Don’t Overmix – Overmixing can make the cookies dense.
- Adjust Frosting Consistency – Use milk or powdered sugar to get the right texture.
- Customize Your Colors – Make these cookies perfect for any occasion by changing the frosting color!
Enjoy the Sweet Comfort of Soft Lofthouse Cookies
Now that you have the recipe, it’s time to bake up some memories! These cookies are more than just a treat—they’re a delightful experience that brings people together. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a little sweet comfort, these cookies will be a hit. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and start baking. Share these delicious cookies with loved ones and enjoy every bite!