Name: Delightful Simple Lofthouse Sugar Cookies for Sweet Moments
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 9 min
Total time: 99 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar (or light brown sugar for a deeper flavor); 1 large egg (room temperature); 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt); 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free 1:1 substitute); 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional); 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/2 cup milk (whole milk recommended); food coloring (optional); sprinkles/pearl sugar (for decoration)

Have you ever bitten into a cookie that felt like a warm embrace? That’s the magic of these Soft Lofthouse-Style Sugar Cookies with Fluffy Frosting. With each tender, cake-like morsel, you’ll be transported back to carefree days when sweetness was simply a bite away. Perfect for any gathering, these simple sugar cookies are not just comforting; they’re a quick and easy way to bring joy to your kitchen. Thanks to the surprising addition of sour cream and cornstarch, you’ll create cookies that are soft and oh-so-delicious—ideal for making ahead and sharing with family and friends. So, are you ready to bring a little nostalgia into your baking?

Why Are These Sugar Cookies So Irresistible?

Simplicity at its Finest: The straightforward steps make these cookies a breeze to create, perfect for busy bakers seeking a quick treat.

Nostalgic Flavor: Each bite delivers the same delightful taste that brings back fond memories of childhood sweet treats.

Soft and Fluffy Texture: Thanks to sour cream and cornstarch, you’ll achieve that melt-in-your-mouth softness that everyone will love.

Versatile Baking: Feel free to swap in your favorite flavors or toppings, like the festive Christmas Sugar Cookie variety or even vibrant Peppermint Sugar Cookie treats for a seasonal twist.

Perfect for Sharing: Whether at a party or for a simple family dessert, these cookies are certain to impress and bring joy to any gathering.

Make-Ahead Convenience: Easily prepare the dough in advance, allowing you to whip up fresh cookies whenever the craving strikes!

Simple Lofthouse Sugar Cookies Ingredients

For the Batter

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; substitute with light brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Egg – A vital binder for texture; using room temperature eggs helps with blending.
Sour Cream – Imparts moisture and a slight tang; Greek yogurt can be used as a replacement.
All-Purpose Flour – The backbone of the cookie; for gluten-free, choose a 1:1 substitute.
Cornstarch – Key for that soft, cake-like texture you’ll love; absolutely don’t skip it!
Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise to dreamy fluffiness.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Vanilla Extract & Almond Extract – Essential flavoring; vanilla is a must while almond adds a nice touch.

For the Frosting

Powdered Sugar – The base of your frosting for ultimate sweetness and smoothness.
Milk – Helps achieve the perfect frosting consistency; use whole milk for best results.
Food Coloring – Optional for a fun twist; gel colors keep the frosting vibrant.
Sprinkles/Pearl Sugar – Add visual appeal and a pop of fun to your finished cookies.

These Simple Lofthouse Sugar Cookies make for the ultimate easy treat to brighten any day!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Simple Lofthouse Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Frosting
Begin by sifting 2 cups of powdered sugar into a mixing bowl, ensuring there are no lumps. In a separate bowl, beat 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter until creamy and smooth, about 2 minutes. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Pour in 2 tablespoons of milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, then beat until the frosting achieves a fluffy consistency. Set this aside for later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together 3 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This mixture is critical for creating the ideal texture of your Simple Lofthouse Sugar Cookies, so ensure everything is combined evenly. Set this bowl aside as you move to the next step.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a stand mixer, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar with the 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter. Beat on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, showing a pale color change that indicates sufficient aeration. This step is essential for the cookies’ soft texture, so take your time to achieve the right consistency.

Step 4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Add 1 large room temperature egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a splash of almond extract to the creamed butter and sugar. Mix well until fully combined, about 30 seconds. Then, gently fold in the 1/2 cup of sour cream, ensuring a smooth mixture without overworking it, as this could affect the softness of your Simple Lofthouse Sugar Cookies.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients mixture to the wet ingredients using a spatula. Mix until just combined, taking care not to overmix; a few flour streaks are okay. Once integrated, shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling period helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

Step 6: Roll and Cut Dough
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you roll out the dough. On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and transfer them to parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie to allow for spreading.

Step 7: Bake
Place the cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 8-9 minutes. Keep an eye on them—the edges should be slightly golden while the centers remain soft and puffy. Once done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Frost Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cooled, take your prepared frosting and generously spread it over the tops of each cookie. If desired, decorate with colorful sprinkles or pearl sugar while the frosting is still wet to add a festive touch. Let the frosting set a bit before serving your delightful Simple Lofthouse Sugar Cookies.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Simple Lofthouse Sugar Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time during busy weeks! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all your ingredients and shaping the dough into a disk. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate, which helps maintain their soft texture while preventing them from spreading during baking. Additionally, you can also frost the cookies and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just make sure to allow the frosting to set before stacking them to avoid sticking. When ready to serve, simply take them out of the fridge and enjoy these delicious cookies with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Simple Lofthouse Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, egg, and sour cream are at room temperature for optimal mixing, resulting in better texture and flavor in your cookies.
Chill the Dough: Don’t skip refrigerating the dough. This step helps prevent excessive spreading during baking, keeping your cookies soft and thick.
Measure Flour Accurately: Use a kitchen scale or the spoon-and-level method to measure flour. Too much flour can lead to dense cookies, while proper measurement ensures delightful softness.
Don’t Overmix: Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just incorporated to avoid tough cookies. A few flour streaks are totally okay!
Check Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies; they should look slightly underbaked when removed. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool, ensuring that soft, cake-like consistency.
Rotating the Baking Sheet: If your oven has hot spots, rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking. This ensures even cooking for your Simple Lofthouse Sugar Cookies, making them perfect every time!

Simple Lofthouse Sugar Cookies Variations

Feel free to put your own twist on these delightful cookies and make them your own!

Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute to ensure everyone can enjoy these tender treats.
Dairy-Free: Swap unsalted butter with coconut oil or dairy-free margarine along with unsweetened almond milk for the frosting.
Flavor Infusions: Substitute vanilla extract with orange or mint extract for a refreshing change that brightens each bite.
Add-Ins: Toss in 1 cup of chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the dough before baking for extra flavor and texture.
Zesty Topping: Combine lemon juice and zest into the frosting for a bright, tangy twist that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Decorative Fun: Use vibrant gel food coloring for frosting to create a rainbow of colors that make your cookies pop at parties!
Sprinkle Variations: Experiment with different types of sprinkles like colored sugar or edible glitter for festive occasions, adding a touch of sparkle.
Seasonal Flavors: Consider making a fall version with pumpkin spice or adding a peppermint twist during the holidays—perfect to pair with Christmas Sugar Cookies or Peppermint Sugar Cookie recipes!

Let your imagination flourish and enjoy the sweet journey as you create cookies that are uniquely yours!

Storage Tips for Simple Lofthouse Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their soft texture and freshness.
Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen cookies, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before frosting or serving.
Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, gently reheat them in the oven at 300°F (about 10 minutes) for that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience!

What to Serve with Soft Lofthouse-Style Sugar Cookies

Treat your taste buds to a delightful spread that elevates these sweet, fluffy cookies into the realm of full meals and celebrations.

Creamy Milkshake: The creamy, thick texture of a milkshake blends perfectly with the soft cookies, enhancing their sweetness. It’s a nostalgic pairing reminiscent of old ice cream parlors.
Fruity Salad: A vibrant mix of fresh berries tossed in a honey-lime dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the sugary cookies, balancing flavors beautifully.
Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of cocoa, rich with chocolate, complements the buttery essence of the cookies, creating a cozy treat for cold evenings.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: Serve a variety with classic chocolate chip cookies for guests who love an assortment. The diversity of flavors will make everyone smile.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream atop the cookies makes for an indulgent dessert experience, offering rich creaminess against the sweet cookie base.
Sparkling Lemonade: This bubbly drink’s zing contrasts the sugary softness of the cookies, refreshing the palate and adding a festive touch.
Fruit Tart: A light fruit tart introduces bright, zesty notes that pair well with the rich flavors of the cookies, bringing a lively flair to your dessert table.
Chai Tea: The aromatic, spiced warmth of chai tea enhances the cookies’ vanilla and almond tones, creating a fragrant pairing perfect for afternoon snacks.
Apple Crisp: A warm bowl of apple crisp adds fruity warmth and a crunchy texture, making for an inviting dessert spread that everyone will adore.

Simple Lofthouse Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of butter should I use for these cookies?
Absolutely! I recommend using unsalted butter for these Simple Lofthouse Sugar Cookies. This allows you to control the amount of salt in the recipe better. Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for smooth mixing and optimal texture.

How long can I store these sugar cookies?
You can store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them soft and fresh. If you’d like to preserve them longer, consider freezing the unfrosted cookies.

Can I freeze the cookies, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze these cookies! To do so, wrap each unfrosted cookie individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

What should I do if my cookies turn out too flat?
If your cookies spread too much during baking, it might be due to the dough being too warm or not enough flour. Ensure you follow the chilling step closely, and consider measuring your flour accurately. A kitchen scale is ideal for this, preventing excessive flattening.

Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
These Simple Lofthouse Sugar Cookies can easily be made nut-free. Just omit the almond extract from the recipe, and ensure that all your other ingredients, especially baking powder and extracts, are nut-free. Always double-check labels to avoid any allergens.

Can I use other toppings on the frosting?
Very! You can definitely add your favorite toppings! Consider chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or even coconut flakes as a delightful change. The key is to sprinkle them on while the frosting is still wet to ensure they stick nicely.