Soft Lofthouse Cookies with Sweet Frosting Recipe: A Delicious Treat for Every Occasion

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Baking has a magical way of filling your home with warmth and love. 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, are a hit at any event. Whether it’s a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or just a fun baking session with the family, these cookies are bound to bring joy to all who taste them.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making these irresistible cookies. From the perfect cookie dough to the rich, spreadable frosting, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also share tips and tricks for achieving the best results and how to decorate these cookies to match any occasion. So, preheat your oven, grab your mixing bowls, and let’s dive into the delightful world of Soft Lofthouse Cookies with Sweet Frosting!

Why You’ll Love This Soft Lofthouse Cookie Recipe

Lofthouse cookies are beloved for a reason. Their soft, cake-like texture and sweet frosting make them stand out from other cookie varieties. If you’re familiar with the store-bought versions, you’ll be thrilled to know that homemade Lofthouse cookies are far superior in taste and freshness. Not only do they taste better, but you also have the freedom to control the ingredients, making them the perfect treat for any occasion.

Fluffy Texture and Sweet Frosting

One of the key things that set Lofthouse cookies apart is their texture. These cookies are incredibly soft, almost like a mini cake in every bite. The combination of cake flour, butter, and shortening gives them a delicate crumb that melts in your mouth. Topped with a creamy frosting made of butter, shortening, and powdered sugar, each bite is a perfect balance of sweetness and smooth texture. Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our https://miarecipes.com/baked-spinach-mushroom-quesadillas-3/

Versatility for Any Occasion

Whether you’re preparing a special treat for a birthday, a festive holiday gathering, or a random Sunday afternoon, Lofthouse cookies are a versatile choice. Their simple yet elegant design makes them adaptable for different themes. You can easily change the color of the frosting and add sprinkles to match the occasion. These cookies not only taste delicious, but they also add a fun, colorful touch to your celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Soft Lofthouse Cookies with Sweet Frosting

Before you begin baking, it’s important to gather all the ingredients you’ll need. Don’t worry—these ingredients are simple and easy to find, and you might already have most of them in your pantry!

Ingredients 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 substitute it with a mixture of all-purpose flour and cornstarch.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: This leavening agent ensures the cookies rise and stay light and airy.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness of the cookies and enhances the overall flavor.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Butter adds richness and flavor to the dough. Be sure to use unsalted butter for better control over the salt content.
• 1/3 cup vegetable shortening: Shortening helps create the soft, cake-like texture and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar: The sweetness comes from sugar, which also helps with the texture of the cookies.
• 1 large egg: The egg provides structure and moisture to the dough.
• 1 large egg white: The egg white helps to lighten the texture and contribute to the fluffiness.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Vanilla extract adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the dough.
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract: Almond extract enhances the flavor of the cookies and adds a unique depth.

Ingredients for the Frosting

• 1/3 cup unsalted butter (softened): Like in the cookie dough, butter plays a crucial role in creating a smooth, creamy frosting.
• 1/3 cup vegetable shortening: Shortening is added to help create a stable frosting that holds its shape.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla is essential for flavor, making the frosting taste sweet and rich.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt in the frosting helps balance the sweetness of the powdered sugar.
• 3-3.5 cups powdered sugar: Powdered sugar is used to make the frosting thick, smooth, and spreadable.
• 3-4 tablespoons milk or cream: Milk or cream is added to adjust the consistency of the frosting, making it smooth and easy to spread.
• Food coloring (optional): Add food coloring to match the theme of your celebration. It’s a fun way to customize the cookies!
• Sprinkles for decoration: Sprinkles are optional but highly recommended for an extra festive touch!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Soft Lofthouse Cookies

Making the Cookies

1. Sift Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting helps to remove any lumps and ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which results in a smoother dough.

2. Cream Butter, Shortening, and Sugar

In a separate bowl, beat together the softened butter, vegetable shortening, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a soft, airy texture in the cookies.

3. Add Wet Ingredients

Add the egg, egg white, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the mixture. Beat until everything is well combined. The mixture should become smooth and creamy.

4. Mix in the Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed to prevent flour from spilling out. Add about half of the flour mixture, mix well, then add the rest. Mix until just combined, but avoid overmixing to prevent dense cookies.

5. Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight. Chilling the dough helps the cookies hold their shape during baking, preventing them from spreading too much.

6. Preheat and Prep the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This ensures that the cookies won’t stick and bake evenly.

7. Roll the Dough

Once the dough has chilled, roll it into balls, about 2 tablespoons in size. Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.

8. Flatten the Cookies

Lightly press the tops of the cookie dough balls down using the bottom of a flour-dipped cup. This helps the cookies bake evenly and gives them that signature flat top.

9. Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies for 9-11 minutes, or until the tops are set and the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Be careful not to overbake, as the cookies should remain soft and tender.

10. Cool the Cookies

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling the cookies is essential before frosting, as the frosting will melt if applied to warm cookies.

Making the Frosting

1. Cream the Butter and Shortening

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and vegetable shortening until fluffy and well combined. This creates the base of the frosting.

2. Add Flavoring

Add the vanilla extract and salt to the mixture, continuing to beat until fully incorporated.

3. Add Powdered Sugar

Gradually add the powdered sugar, about 1 cup at a time. Mix well after each addition. The frosting should begin to thicken as the sugar is added.

4. Adjust Consistency

Add milk or cream, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thick, add more milk; if it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.

5. Color and Decorate

Once your frosting is smooth, add a few drops of food coloring to achieve the desired color. Mix until evenly colored. Now you’re ready to frost your cookies!

Decorating the Cookies

Once the cookies have completely cooled, spread a layer of frosting on top using a flat knife or a small offset spatula. Decorate with sprinkles for an extra touch of fun and festivity.

Tips for Perfect Soft Lofthouse Cookies Every Time

1. Chill the Dough

Chilling the dough is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. It helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking and results in that soft, cake-like consistency.

2. Don’t Overmix

When adding the dry ingredients, mix only until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies.

3. Adjust Frosting Consistency

If your frosting is too thick, add more milk or cream, a little at a time. If it’s too runny, add more powdered sugar to thicken it.

4. Use Food Coloring Creatively

Food coloring is an easy way to make your cookies visually appealing. Choose colors that match the season, event, or just your personal preferences!

Nutritional Information for Soft Lofthouse Cookies

Nutrient	Amount per Cookie
Calories	Approximately 250
Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	35g
Protein	1g
Sugar	20g

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on portion size and the amount of frosting used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use butter instead of shortening in the frosting?

Yes, you can substitute butter for shortening, but keep in mind that it may affect the texture. Shortening helps create a fluffier frosting, while butter gives a richer flavor.

How do I store Soft Lofthouse Cookies with Frosting?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to store them longer, place them in the refrigerator. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Can I freeze the dough for later use?

Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then proceed with the recipe.

How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free cake flour blend or gluten-free all-purpose flour to make these cookies gluten-free.

Conclusion: Enjoy the Sweet Comfort of Soft Lofthouse Cookies

Now that you’ve got the recipe, it’s time to bake up some memories with Soft Lofthouse Cookies. These cookies are more than just a treat—they’re an experience that brings people together. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a little sweet comfort, these cookies will surely be a hit.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and start baking. Share these delightful cookies with family and friends, and create sweet moments that will last a lifetime. Enjoy every bite!

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