The first bite of a Lofthouse Cookie is like a warm hug on a chilly day—soft, thick, and decadently sweet. I still get giddy thinking about the first time I brought a batch to a friend’s gathering, the compliments coming in hot as the aroma of baked goodness filled the air. This recipe features a dreamy cream cheese frosting that sets these cookies apart from any store-bought treat. And the beauty of Lofthouse Cookies? They’re as versatile as they are delicious! You can easily switch up the colors and sprinkles, making them perfect for any occasion—be it a birthday bash, holiday get-together, or just a sweet afternoon pick-me-up with your favorite cup of coffee. Best of all, with just ten minutes of active prep time, there’s no reason not to indulge in these scrumptious little bites of joy! Let’s dive in and create something truly special together.
Why are Lofthouse Cookies so irresistible?
Heavenly texture: Each bite melts in your mouth, thanks to their thick and soft consistency.
Creamy frosting: The rich cream cheese frosting elevates these cookies beyond the ordinary, making them a true delight.
Customizable fun: Easily adapt the colors and sprinkles for any occasion, from birthdays to holidays!
Quick prep: With just 10 minutes of hands-on time, you can whip up these delicious treats swiftly.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether at a casual coffee date or fancy gathering, these cookies are bound to impress everyone!
Lofthouse Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for that thick and soft bite.
• Cornstarch – Essential for achieving a wonderfully soft texture.
• Baking Powder – This leavening agent ensures a fluffy cookie.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances the overall flavor beautifully.
• Butter (1 stick) – Adds richness; can substitute with butter-flavored margarine if preferred.
• Cream Cheese – Creates that soft, dreamy texture; can swap with additional softened butter if necessary.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens these delicious Lofthouse Cookies to perfection.
• Large Egg – Binds all the ingredients for that perfect consistency.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor that balances sweetness.
• Almond Extract – Introduces a lovely aroma; consider reducing to 1/4 tsp if you prefer a milder taste.
For the Frosting
• Butter (1 1/2 sticks) – Gives a creamy base for a luscious buttercream.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting for the ultimate finish.
• Heavy Cream – Adds smoothness and the perfect consistency to frost your cookies.
• Food Coloring – Optional, but a fun way to customize your icing for any occasion!
• Sprinkles – Perfect for adding festive flair and seasonal cheer to your cookies.
How to Make Lofthouse Cookies
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Prepare Dough: In a bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and kosher salt. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add the egg, vanilla, and almond extracts, mixing until well blended. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture until fully combined, enjoying the sweet scent of your cookie dough.
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Chill Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This step is crucial for shaping the cookies perfectly and ensuring they maintain their delightful thick texture when baked.
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Bake Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the chilled dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Once done, allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
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Frost Cookies: In a bowl, beat together the butter and cream cheese for the frosting until smooth and creamy, embodying the richness of the flavors. Gradually add the powdered sugar and heavy cream, mixing until light and fluffy. If desired, add food coloring to create vibrant frosting shades.
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Decorate: Generously frost the cooled cookies with your creamy frosting and sprinkle with colorful toppings for that extra festive touch! Let your creativity shine as you customize each cookie for any occasion.
Optional: Add themed sprinkles to match holidays or special events.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Lofthouse Cookies
- Cool Before Frosting: Ensure cookies are fully cooled before frosting to prevent the buttercream from melting, ensuring a perfect finish.
- Don’t Overbake: Aim for a soft center; avoiding overbaking keeps your Lofthouse Cookies thick and fluffy, maintaining their signature texture.
- Chill Dough for Success: Refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours to help with shaping and achieve that iconic soft bite after baking.
- Frosting Consistency: Adjust heavy cream for your desired frosting thickness; too much can make it runny, while too little will create a stiff frosting.
- Customize Wisely: Feel free to experiment with different flavor extracts like lemon or coconut; just be careful not to overpower the base flavors in your Lofthouse Cookies.
Make Ahead Options
These Lofthouse Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating it. This not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that the dough stays fresh and easy to work with. Additionally, you can make the cream cheese frosting up to 24 hours ahead; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the dough from the fridge, shape it, and proceed with baking as directed. This way, you can have delicious Lofthouse Cookies ready to enjoy with minimal effort, making your busy weeknights much sweeter!
Lofthouse Cookies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and personalize these delightful cookies to suit your taste and occasions!
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Citrus Twist: Substitute almond extract with lemon zest for a bright, refreshing flavor that will wake up your taste buds.
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Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to cater to gluten sensitivities without compromising on taste.
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Nutty Flavor: Swap part of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a deliciously nutty taste and extra tenderness that your family will adore.
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Chocolate Lovers: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for a decadent twist that pairs perfectly with the sweet frosting.
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Spiced Sugar Cookies: Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dry ingredients for a warm, inviting spice that’s just perfect for the holidays.
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Colorful Icing: Create a rainbow of frosting by using different food colorings, ensuring your cookies are as visually appealing as they are tasty!
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Festive Toppings: Top with seasonal sprinkles or themed candies to elevate these cookies for any celebration – think hearts for Valentine’s Day or stars for the Fourth of July!
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Dairy-Free Delight: Replace butter and cream cheese with coconut oil and vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free version that still hits all the right notes.
How to Store and Freeze Lofthouse Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your Lofthouse Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to keep them fresh and soft.
Fridge: If you prefer, these cookies can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, but note that refrigeration may slightly alter their texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, maintaining their delightful taste.
Reheating: To enjoy your frozen Lofthouse Cookies, thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave. Frosting can be reapplied if desired for a fresh look!
What to Serve with Lofthouse Cookies?
Delight your senses and elevate your cookie experience with these scrumptious pairings that complement every soft, sweet bite!
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Juicy berries and vibrant citrus enhance the sweetness of the cookies, bringing a refreshing contrast that excites your palate.
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Hot Cocoa: Creamy, rich cocoa paired with a sprinkle of marshmallows creates a cozy vibe, perfect for a chilly afternoon treat together.
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Coffee: A warm cup of coffee balances the sweetness of Lofthouse Cookies, providing a delightful contrast that will awaken your taste buds.
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Milk: Classic and comforting, a glass of cold milk enhances the creamy elements in the frosting and adds to the nostalgic experience.
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Ice Cream: Soft serve or vanilla ice cream makes for a delightful indulgence when sandwiched between two cookies—perfect for an unforgettable dessert!
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Cheese Plate: A mix of mild cheeses balances the sweetness with a savory twist, making for an impressive snack platter at parties.
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Lemonade: A glass of zesty lemonade brings a bright flavor burst that perfectly contrasts the sweetness of the cookies, leaving you refreshed.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate your cookies even further with a rich chocolate drizzle that adds decadence and visual appeal to their already beautiful form.
Create a delightful dessert spread with these pairings and make your Lofthouse Cookies the star of any gathering!
Lofthouse Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ingredients for Lofthouse Cookies?
Absolutely! For the softest texture, use freshly purchased, high-quality all-purpose flour and make sure your butter and cream cheese are softened at room temperature before mixing. Pay special attention to your baking powder; it should be fresh to ensure proper leavening. Also, be mindful when selecting extracts, as they greatly impact the flavor; pure extracts will always yield better results than imitation flavors.
What’s the best way to store Lofthouse Cookies?
To keep your Lofthouse Cookies fresh and soft, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. If you’d like them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks, but this may alter their delightful texture slightly. Be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Can I freeze Lofthouse Cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Lofthouse Cookies, first allow them to cool completely after baking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or gently warm them in the microwave for a cozy treat!
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very commonly, cookies spread due to warm dough or insufficient chilling time. Make sure to refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours prior to baking; this step is crucial for keeping the cookies thick and fluffy. If the cookies still spread, consider adjusting the flour amount slightly or ensuring your baking powder is fresh and properly stored.
Can I make dietary substitutions for Lofthouse Cookies?
Absolutely! You can substitute cream cheese with additional softened butter if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. For gluten-free Lofthouse Cookies, try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Always remember to check for possible allergies when using different extracts or toppings, as nut extracts can be a concern for those with nut allergies.
Can Lofthouse Cookies be decorated ahead of time?
Yes! If you’re preparing for an event, you can bake and frost your Lofthouse Cookies a day in advance. Just be sure to store them loosely covered in a cool place so the frosting doesn’t get overly soft. If you plan to use sprinkles, it’s best to add them closer to serving to keep them looking fresh and vibrant!
Lofthouse Cookies: Soft Sugar Treats You’ll Love to Customize
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and kosher salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar until fluffy.
- Add the egg, vanilla, and almond extracts, mixing until well blended.
- Gradually incorporate the flour mixture until fully combined, enjoying the sweet scent of your cookie dough.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll the chilled dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
- In a bowl, beat together the butter and cream cheese for the frosting until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and heavy cream, mixing until light and fluffy.
- Add food coloring to create vibrant frosting shades, if desired.
- Generously frost the cooled cookies with your creamy frosting.
- Sprinkle with colorful toppings for that extra festive touch!