Lofthouse Cookies – Irresistibly Soft Valentine’s Day Treat

All About Lofthouse Cookies

Lofthouse cookies are recognizable for their soft and fluffy texture, often found adorned with bright frosting and sprinkles in grocery store bakeries. Unlike standard sugar cookies, these cookies are enhanced with both baking powder and baking soda, as well as sour cream, which contributes to their cake-like consistency. What’s more, these homemade versions are larger than the store-bought versions, providing a more satisfying bite! If you’d like to adjust the size, simply use a smaller cookie cutter for mini treats.

Ingredients for Lofthouse Cookies

• Butter: Unsalted and slightly softened at room temperature.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar, for sweetness.
• Egg: One large egg, brought to room temperature.
• Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla for the best flavor.
• Almond Extract: A small amount goes a long way for a sweet touch.
• All-Purpose Flour: Measure precisely for best results.
• Baking Powder: Ensure it’s fresh for optimal rise.
• Baking Soda: Fresh is best for effective leavening.
• Sour Cream: Full-fat is recommended for moisture and richness.
• Salt: Just a pinch to enhance flavor.

Making the Lofthouse Cookies

To create these delightful cookies, start by preparing the dough well in advance. You’ll need to chill the dough for about an hour before baking to achieve that signature soft texture.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients: Mix in the egg, vanilla, almond extract, and sour cream until combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.
4. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
5. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Shape and Bake: Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick and use a round cutter to cut out cookie shapes. Transfer them to the baking sheet, spaced about 3 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until just set. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.

Creating the Almond Buttercream Frosting

This Almond Buttercream Frosting adds a delightful finishing touch to your cookies — both in flavor and visual charm. To make it, you’ll need:

• Unsalted Butter: Softened to room temperature for that creamy base.

• A Pinch of Salt: Just enough to enhance the sweetness without overpowering.

• Vanilla Extract: Opt for a high-quality version to bring out deep, rich notes.

• Almond Extract: A little goes a long way to deliver that signature nutty flavor.

• Heavy Cream: Helps adjust the frosting to the perfect spreadable consistency.

• Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and structure — be sure to add it gradually to avoid a sugar storm!

• Pink Gel Coloring (Optional): For that soft, romantic Valentine’s hue.

For more almond-based recipes like this, check out Almond Flour: The High-Protein, Gluten-Free Choice for Baking and Cooking by Beverly Lynn Bennett.

Instructions for Buttercream:

1. Beat the Butter: In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, whip the butter until light and fluffy.
2. Add Flavorings: Mix in salt, vanilla extract, almond extract, and heavy cream.
3. Incorporate Powdered Sugar: Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed, then increase to high and whip until fluffy.
4. Color the Frosting: Mix in pink gel coloring to your preferred shade.
5. Frost the Cookies: Pipe a swirl of frosting onto each cookie, then smooth with a spatula. Add sprinkles if desired!

Storage Tips

Store these luscious cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or in a sealed plastic bag for up to a week while keeping them wonderfully soft.

Can I Make Them Smaller?

Absolutely! Simply use a smaller cookie cutter for mini versions that are just as delicious!

Can I Freeze Them?

Yes! These cookies can be frozen either frosted or unfrosted. Simply store them in an airtight container or freezer bag and they will maintain their flavor and texture for up to three months.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What’s the difference between Lofthouse cookies and regular sugar cookies?

Lofthouse cookies generally have a softer, cake-like texture due to the inclusion of sour cream and the combination of baking powder and baking soda, unlike traditional sugar cookies which can be more dense.

2. Can I customize the frosting flavor?

Yes! You can substitute the almond extract with different flavors like lemon or orange to create a unique twist on the frosting!

3. How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much while baking?

Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing cookies from spreading during baking. It helps the fats to solidify, leading to thicker, puffier cookies.

4. What kind of sprinkles should I use for decoration?

For a Valentine’s theme, heart-shaped sprinkles or festive colored sprinkles work perfectly to enhance the visual appeal of your cookies.

5. Can these cookies be made without dairy?

You can substitute dairy ingredients with dairy-free alternatives. Use vegan butter in the cookies and coconut cream or a non-dairy milk alternative in the frosting for a delightful dairy-free treat.