Irresistible Lofthouse Shortbread Cookies to Try in 25

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 Shortbread Cookies

To achieve that signature Lofthouse softness with buttery shortbread flavor, you’ll need ingredients that deliver richness, tenderness, and just the right touch of sweetness. Each one plays a role in creating the perfect cookie bite:

• 2 cups unsalted butter, softened – A shortbread essential that creates a rich, melt-away texture in every cookie.

• 1 cup powdered sugar – Dissolves smoothly into the dough, lending a soft sweetness that enhances the buttery flavor.

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Adds just a hint of crisp texture to balance the tender bite.

• 1/4 tsp salt – A pinch of salt sharpens the flavors and cuts through the sweetness perfectly.

• 1 tbsp vanilla extract – Deepens the overall flavor and gives the cookies that iconic Lofthouse bakery aroma.

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – The main structure of the dough; enough to hold shape without toughening.

• 1/4 cup cornstarch – Softens the flour blend, making each bite of your Lofthouse shortbread cookies lighter and more delicate.

For the Frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – The rich base for a creamy, dreamy frosting.

• 2 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting without any graininess.

• 2–3 tbsp heavy cream – Adjusts the frosting texture to your liking, making it smooth and spreadable.

• 1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds warmth and complexity to the frosting.

• Food coloring (optional) – Gives the cookies their signature pastel flair.

• Sprinkles – A festive, colorful topping that completes the look and feel of traditional Lofthouse cookies.

Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Chill Time: 30 minutes

• Bake Time: 12 minutes

• Total Time: ~1 hour

In just under an hour, you’ll have a full tray of frosted Lofthouse shortbread cookies ready to impress friends, family, or guests. This recipe is quick enough for weeknight baking and festive enough for special occasions. The chilling step is key, but overall the process is faster than many traditional cookie recipes.

How to Make Lofthouse Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter together with both the powdered and granulated sugars. Continue until the mixture becomes fluffy, pale, and smooth—about 3–4 minutes using a hand or stand mixer. This is the foundation of the soft texture we want in our Lofthouse shortbread cookies, so don’t rush it. Creaming properly aerates the dough.

Step 2: Add Vanilla and Dry Ingredients

Add the vanilla extract and mix until fully combined. Slowly add in the flour, cornstarch, and salt in increments to avoid overmixing. Stir until a soft, uniform dough forms—it will be slightly tacky but firm enough to hold together. This is the base that gives Lofthouse shortbread cookies their rich yet tender crumb.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Shape the dough into a disc and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours. This important step allows the fats to firm up, which helps prevent spreading during baking and enhances the final flavor and texture of your Lofthouse shortbread cookies.

Step 4: Roll and Cut

After chilling, roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use round cookie cutters or your favorite festive shapes to cut out cookies. Thicker dough helps maintain the signature soft, almost cake-like consistency that defines Lofthouse shortbread cookies.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet with a little space between each. Bake for 10–12 minutes, watching carefully—they should stay pale, not golden. Overbaking will dry them out, so it’s best to err on the side of softness.

Step 6: Make the Frosting

While the cookies cool, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, followed by vanilla extract and cream. Adjust consistency as needed. A few drops of food coloring can give your frosting that iconic Lofthouse look. This frosting adds the final layer of sweetness and visual charm to your Lofthouse shortbread cookies.

Step 7: Frost and Decorate

Once the cookies are completely cool, generously frost each one using a spoon, spatula, or piping bag. Top with colorful sprinkles while the frosting is still soft. Let them sit for 15–20 minutes so the frosting sets up slightly, making them perfect for serving or stacking.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie Approximate)

Healthier Alternatives

Want to make your Lofthouse shortbread cookies a bit lighter while keeping the flavor? Here are some smart substitutions to try without compromising on texture or satisfaction:

• Dairy-Free: Use vegan or plant-based butter in both the dough and frosting. There are many high-quality options that behave just like regular butter.

• Low Sugar: Try monk fruit or a powdered erythritol blend in place of sugar to reduce the glycemic load.

• Gluten-Free: A cup-for-cup gluten-free baking blend can replace the all-purpose flour. Add an extra tablespoon of cornstarch for tenderness.

• Lighter Frosting: Swap out some butter for Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of honey or maple syrup. This will reduce fat while adding a tangy twist.

These tweaks make it easier to fit Lofthouse shortbread cookies into a balanced lifestyle.

Serving Suggestions

These versatile and cheerful Lofthouse shortbread cookies are great for just about any event. Here are some creative ideas to present and pair them:

• Holiday platters: Serve them alongside Fruit Pizza Cookies and Swedish Jam Cookies for a vibrant, colorful spread.

• Celebration tables: Add them to a dessert bar with Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls and Mini Pineapple Upside-Down Cakes.

• Tea or coffee pairings: Their soft crumb makes these cookies ideal companions to a warm beverage.

• Gift boxes: Arrange a few Lofthouse shortbread cookies in a decorative tin with ribbon for thoughtful, homemade gifts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes can go sideways. Watch out for these pitfalls to ensure your Lofthouse shortbread cookies turn out bakery-perfect:

• Skipping the chill time: Leads to flat, overly spread cookies that lose their soft shape.

• Overbaking: Results in dry cookies. Always remove them when they’re just set and pale.

• Undermixing the butter: The butter and sugar must be thoroughly creamed to get that pillowy texture.

• Too much frosting: These cookies are rich—keep frosting thick but not overwhelming.

Follow these guidelines and your Lofthouse shortbread cookies will be as dreamy as you remember.

Storing Tips

Here’s how to keep your Lofthouse shortbread cookies tasting fresh for days:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Use parchment between layers.

• Refrigerator: Keeps them slightly longer, especially in warm climates.

• Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Add frosting just before serving for best results.

These cookies are perfect for make-ahead planning or last-minute treats.

Conclusion

Soft, buttery, and topped with festive frosting and sprinkles, these Lofthouse shortbread cookies are a celebration in every bite. With just a few pantry staples and some chill time, you’ll have cookies that are perfect for holidays, parties, or quiet moments with a cup of tea.

Bake a batch, decorate them however you like, and enjoy the nostalgic joy of bakery-style cookies made right at home. If you’re looking for the best version of a childhood favorite, this Lofthouse shortbread cookies recipe delivers.

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