Every time February rolls around, I can’t help but get lost in a sweet daydream of Valentine’s Day treats. There’s a certain magic in the air as I imagine the perfect cookie—a soft, pillowy Lofthouse cookie, lavishly frosted and adorned with pastel colors. This gentle giant of a cookie not only melts in your mouth but also brings smiles to everyone’s faces, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser for the season of love.
I stumbled across this recipe when I was searching for the ideal sweet to brighten a chilly winter afternoon. It quickly stole my heart—and my taste buds! What truly sets these Lofthouse cookies apart is how incredibly easy they are to whip up, even on a busy weeknight. All you need are a few simple ingredients, and you’ll have a batch of cookies that are ready to charm friends, family, or that special someone.
Let’s trade the fast food routine for a cozy kitchen moment, shall we? Join me as I guide you through making these delightful treats that are just waiting to be frosted and celebrated!
Why You'll Love This Lofthouse Cookies
- These Lofthouse Cookies are a breeze to make, allowing you to whip up a delicious treat in no time.
- Their fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth texture ensures that every bite is a delightful experience.
- With endless options for frosting and color combinations, you can customize these cookies for any occasion or personal preference.
- These cookies are guaranteed to impress and please everyone, making them a perfect addition to any gathering or celebration.
Lofthouse Cookies Ingredients
Get ready to bake these delightful cookies!
For the Cookie Base
• All-purpose flour – Provides the foundation for a soft, fluffy Lofthouse cookie.
• Baking powder – Helps to create that pillowy texture everyone loves.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• Unsalted butter – Make sure it’s softened for easy creaming to achieve a light and fluffy batter.
• Granulated sugar – Contributes to the cookie’s classic sweetness.
• Brown sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
• Large eggs – Use room temperature eggs for smoother mixing.
• Vanilla extract – Infuses a warm, comforting flavor into each cookie.
For the Frosting
• Powdered sugar – Creates a smooth and sweet base for your frosting.
• Milk – Adjust the consistency of the frosting to your liking; start with 2 tablespoons and add more if necessary.
• Food coloring – Optional, but perfect for adding a festive touch to your Lofthouse Cookies!
How to Make Lofthouse Cookies
-
Preheat oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
-
Whisk dry ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. This will ensure your cookies rise perfectly and have a balanced flavor.
-
Cream butter and sugars: In a large bowl, cream together ¾ cup softened unsalted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, and ½ cup packed brown sugar using a mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes—so keep an eye on it!
-
Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in 2 large eggs one at a time, then stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined; this adds a lovely depth of flavor to your cookies.
-
Combine mixtures: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Don’t overmix—this helps keep those cookies soft and tender.
-
Scoop dough: Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart. This will give them room to spread while baking.
-
Bake cookies: Place the cookies in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden while the centers remain soft. Your kitchen will smell amazing during this time!
-
Cool and frost: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting them with your choice of icing in delightful pastel colors to match the occasion.
Optional: Top with colorful sprinkles for an extra festive touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Lofthouse Cookies?
Indulge yourself with a delightful spread that complements the soft, sweet goodness of these cookies.
-
Creamy Hot Chocolate: The rich flavor of hot chocolate pairs perfectly with the buttery texture of Lofthouse cookies. It will evoke warm feelings of nostalgia with every sip and bite.
-
Fresh Strawberries: Juicy, ripe strawberries provide a refreshing contrast. Their natural sweetness enhances the cookie’s sugary charm while adding a bright pop of color to your dessert table.
-
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream offers a luscious companion that mimics the soft texture of the cookies. A dollop atop each cookie creates an irresistible treat!
-
Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream melts luxuriously on warm cookies, creating a delightful combination of cool and soft. This pairing turns dessert into a dreamy experience.
-
Fruit Salad: A bowl of mixed fresh fruits adds a vibrant and healthy element to your spread. The sweetness of seasonal berries and melons refreshes the palate after indulging in the cookies.
-
Sparkling Lemonade: This bubbly drink provides a zesty contrast to the sweetness of Lofthouse cookies. With its refreshing sparkle, it’s the perfect thirst quencher during gatherings.
-
Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch of these pretzels offers a playfully surprising flavor against the cookies’ sweetness. They make excellent snacks for a fun celebration, keeping things interesting!
-
Cup of Tea: A warm cup of chamomile or Earl Grey brings a soothing touch to your cookie feast. The gentle flavors enhance the Lofthouse cookies’ sweetness, making for a cozy afternoon treat.
-
Mini Cheesecakes: Small and rich, these desserts beautifully round out your table. The creamy texture and tangy flavor offer a wonderful balance to the cookie’s lightness.
With these delightful pairings, you’re well on your way to creating a heartwarming spread to enjoy alongside your Lofthouse cookies!
Lofthouse Cookies Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these mouthwatering cookies to match your taste and dietary needs!
-
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a delightful, gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy.
-
Dairy-Free: Replace unsalted butter with vegan butter and use a dairy-free milk alternative in the icing—it’s just as rich and indulgent!
-
Chocolate Chip Twist: Fold in a cup of mini chocolate chips into the dough before baking to add a rich, melty surprise in each cookie.
-
Citrus Zest: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the dough for a refreshing citrus flavor that brightens the cookie.
-
Nutty Crunch: Mix in ½ cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft texture of the cookies.
-
Spiced Version: Sprinkle in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the flour mixture to give your cookies a warm, comforting spice.
-
Extra Sweet: Drizzle with melted white chocolate on top for an added layer of sweetness and a touch of elegance, perfect for any occasion.
-
Heat It Up: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough—it will surprise your taste buds with a delightful contrast!
They’ll taste just as good as they sound, making your Lofthouse cookies a true masterpiece of customization!
How to Store and Freeze Lofthouse Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep your Lofthouse cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture and delightful flavor.
Fridge: If you want them to last longer, store the cookies in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just let them come to room temperature before serving for that fresh-baked taste!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your unfrosted Lofthouse cookies for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheat the frozen cookies directly from the freezer in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until soft and inviting!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Lofthouse cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh-baked goodness with less stress! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the ingredients and refrigerate the dough in an airtight container. For best quality, scoop the cookie dough onto baking sheets and freeze the unbaked cookies for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just place the frozen dough onto lined baking sheets directly from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the bake time. This way, you’ll have fresh Lofthouse cookies with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming, which will give your Lofthouse cookies that light and fluffy texture.
- Remember to spoon your flour into the measuring cup rather than scooping it directly, as this prevents the cookies from becoming dense.
- When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to avoid overworking the dough, which can lead to tougher cookies.
- Bake the cookies until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft, typically around 10-12 minutes, to achieve the perfect pillowy texture that defines Lofthouse cookies.
Lofthouse Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients?
Absolutely! For the best results, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Make sure your eggs are large and at room temperature; this helps them mix more easily. Your butter should be softened, not melted—aim for a spreadable texture that is still cool to the touch. When it comes to flour, check for any dark spots that might indicate spoilage.
How should I store Lofthouse cookies for optimal freshness?
To keep your Lofthouse cookies soft and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their freshness, you can refrigerate them in the same sealed container for up to a week. Remember to let them come to room temperature before indulging for that delightful fresh-baked taste!
Can I freeze Lofthouse cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze unfrosted Lofthouse cookies, wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat the frozen cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, and they’ll be just like new—soft and inviting!
What should I do if my cookies aren’t rising?
Oh no! If your cookies aren’t rising as expected, there are a few things to check. Make sure your baking powder is fresh; it typically has a shelf life of about 6-12 months. Also, ensure you’re properly creaming the butter and sugars—this adds air to the dough, helping them rise. Lastly, avoid overmixing once you combine wet and dry ingredients, as this can lead to denser cookies.
Are Lofthouse cookies suitable for those with allergies?
Given that Lofthouse cookies contain common allergens like wheat (in flour), dairy (in butter), and eggs, they might not be suitable for everyone. If you’re baking for someone with specific dietary restrictions, consider using alternatives like gluten-free flour, dairy-free butter, and egg substitutes such as applesauce or a flax egg. Be sure to check labels carefully and use certified allergen-free products when needed.
Lofthouse Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp of baking powder, and ½ tsp of salt. Set it aside!
- In another bowl, cream together ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and ½ cup of brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in 2 large eggs one at a time, followed by 1 tsp of vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart.
- Place the trays in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting them.
Leave a Comment