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These cookies are soft, pillowy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious—just like the ones you find in the bakery section of the grocery store! Topped with a creamy vanilla frosting and colorful sprinkles, they’re perfect for parties, holidays, or just because. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make at home!
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (room temperature)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp almond extract (optional, but adds a bakery-style flavor)
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup sour cream (for extra softness)
For the Frosting:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional)
- Sprinkles (for decorating)
Instructions Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Beat until smooth and well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Fold in the sour cream until the dough is smooth and soft.
Chill the Dough
- Divide the dough into two equal portions. Flatten each portion into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours). Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle and helps the cookies keep their shape.
Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Roll and Cut
- Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about ½-inch thickness.
- Use a round cookie cutter (or any shape you like) to cut out the cookies.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just barely golden. The centers should remain soft and pale.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Frosting
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and fluffy. Add food coloring if desired.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled cookies and top with sprinkles.
Tips for the Best Cookies
- Don’t overbake. The cookies should be soft and slightly puffy when they come out of the oven.
- Use room temperature ingredients. This ensures even mixing and a smooth dough.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg. For an extra layer of flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the dough.
How to Store These Cookies
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to ¼ tsp.
Can I make these without sour cream?
You can substitute plain Greek yogurt, but the texture may be slightly different.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! This recipe doubles easily for larger batches.
Final Thoughts: The Perfect Soft Sugar Cookies!
These Lofthouse-style sugar cookies are a dream come true for cookie lovers. They’re quick, easy, and incredibly delicious—perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a party, a family treat, or just because, these cookies are sure to be a hit!
If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out! Leave a review, snap a photo, and share it on Pinterest. I’d love to see your delicious creations!
More Easy Cookie Recipes to Try:
4-Ingredient Heath Toffee Cookies – A sweet and crunchy treat that’s ready in no time!
Fruity Pebbles Cookies – Fun, colorful, and perfect for dessert lovers.
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