Soft, pillowy, and crowned with a dreamy swirl of buttercream frosting—these Lofthouse Frosted Sugar Cookies are what nostalgic dreams are made of. Every bite instantly takes me back to childhood grocery store runs where I’d beg for one of those pastel-topped cookies nestled in a clear plastic container. I’ve always had a soft spot for them, but making them from scratch? That’s when the real magic happens.

Baking these at home means I get to control the texture (yes to ultra-soft centers), the level of sweetness, and—most fun of all—the sprinkle situation. Whether you’re baking these for birthdays, holidays, or a random Tuesday sweet tooth, they bring joy, color, and that perfect melt-in-your-mouth sweetness that never gets old.

Why You’ll Love This Lofthouse Frosted Sugar Cookies Recipe

These cookies are incredibly soft and cake-like, with a buttery, almost creamy texture that makes them stand out from traditional sugar cookies. The frosting is fluffy and sweet, but not overly so—it complements the cookie rather than overwhelming it. Best of all, they’re highly customizable with different frosting colors and sprinkle combinations to match any occasion.

What Kind of Frosting Works Best for Lofthouse Frosted Sugar Cookies?

For that signature Lofthouse touch, a whipped buttercream frosting is the gold standard. It should be smooth, spreadable, and just firm enough to hold a generous dusting of colorful sprinkles. I stick with classic American buttercream made with unsalted butter, powdered sugar, a splash of vanilla, and a tablespoon or two of milk for that creamy consistency. Food coloring is where the fun begins—pastel pinks, light blues, even lavender for spring or bold reds and greens for the holidays.

Options for Substitutions

Don’t have every ingredient on hand or want to adjust for dietary needs? Here are a few easy swaps that still yield amazing cookies:

Butter: Use vegan butter or plant-based margarine for a dairy-free option.
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt works well as a tangy, protein-rich substitute.
Eggs: Try flaxseed eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water per egg) for a vegan variation.
Flour: While all-purpose is ideal, gluten-free 1:1 baking flour also works for those avoiding gluten.
Frosting Color: Natural food dyes (like beet juice or spirulina) can replace artificial colors if you prefer.

These substitutions make the cookies more accessible while still capturing that soft, sweet essence of the classic.

Ingredients for This Lofthouse Frosted Sugar Cookies Recipe

All-Purpose Flour
This forms the base of the cookie, providing structure while still allowing for that ultra-soft, tender bite.

Baking Powder
It helps the cookies puff up slightly, giving them that thick, cake-like texture we all love.

Baking Soda
Works with the sour cream to create lift and ensure the cookies stay soft and airy.

Salt
Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and brings out the buttery flavor.

Unsalted Butter
Creamed with sugar, it creates a rich, smooth dough and contributes to the soft crumb.

Granulated Sugar
Sweetens the dough and helps create a light, delicate texture.

Egg
Binds everything together and adds a bit of richness.

Sour Cream
This is key—it adds moisture and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.

Vanilla Extract
Infuses the dough with classic warmth and sweetness.

Powdered Sugar
Used in the frosting for a smooth, sweet finish that spreads beautifully.

Milk
Thins the frosting just enough to make it creamy but not runny.

Food Coloring (optional)
Perfect for customizing the cookies to any holiday or celebration.

Sprinkles
Because what’s a Lofthouse cookie without a shower of colorful sprinkles on top?

Step 1: Make the Dough

Start by creaming together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—this takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer. Beat in the egg, then stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much and helps develop their thick, soft texture.

Step 4: Shape and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the chilled dough into 1.5-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Gently press them down to flatten slightly. Bake for 9–11 minutes—just until the edges are set but not browned. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

Beat the butter until creamy, then slowly add powdered sugar, vanilla, and a bit of milk until smooth and fluffy. Mix in food coloring if using.

Step 6: Frost and Decorate

Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a generous layer of frosting on each one and finish with your favorite sprinkles. Let the frosting set slightly before serving or storing.

How Long to Cook the Lofthouse Frosted Sugar Cookies

These cookies bake quickly—about 9 to 11 minutes in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. The key is to not overbake them. You want the cookies to be just set around the edges while still looking pale and slightly underbaked in the center. They’ll continue to set up as they cool, resulting in that classic soft texture.

Tips for Perfect Lofthouse Frosted Sugar Cookies

Don’t skip the chilling step. It helps the cookies keep their shape and prevents spreading.
Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth dough and even baking.
Avoid overmixing. Once the flour is added, stir until just combined to keep the cookies soft.
Cool completely before frosting or you’ll end up with melted buttercream.
Use gel food coloring for vibrant colors without thinning the frosting.
Decorate right after frosting so the sprinkles stick before the icing sets.
Store them in an airtight container to maintain their softness for days.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overbaking: The biggest mistake is letting them get golden brown. These cookies should remain pale and soft, even after baking.
Skipping the chill time: If you don’t chill the dough, the cookies may spread too much and lose their shape.
Using warm butter: Melted or overly soft butter can lead to greasy, flat cookies. Room temperature is best.
Frosting warm cookies: Always wait until they’re fully cooled or the frosting will melt right off.
Too much flour: Scooping flour straight from the bag can pack in too much. Always spoon and level for accuracy.

What to Serve With Lofthouse Frosted Sugar Cookies?

Hot Chocolate

The soft, sweet cookie paired with a rich, creamy mug of hot cocoa is a cold weather dream.

Milk (of any kind)

Classic and perfect—dunking a frosted cookie in a cold glass of milk is simple and satisfying.

Fruit Salad

A refreshing, juicy counterbalance to the rich, buttery sweetness of the cookies.

Coffee or Espresso

A bold, bitter brew cuts through the frosting’s sweetness for a balanced treat.

Lemonade

Especially with pastel-frosted cookies, lemonade adds a bright, tart twist.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Sandwich the cookies around a scoop for a dreamy ice cream sandwich.

Birthday Party Platters

These cookies shine alongside cupcakes, cake pops, or chocolate-dipped pretzels at any celebration.

Afternoon Tea

Set them out with finger sandwiches and tea for a colorful, nostalgic twist on the usual tea fare.

Storage Instructions

Lofthouse Frosted Sugar Cookies store beautifully and even taste better the next day once the flavors settle. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 7 days if your kitchen is warm. To avoid smudged frosting, layer parchment paper between stacked cookies.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies (frosted or unfrosted). Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Estimated Nutrition

Per cookie (based on a batch of 24 cookies):

Calories: ~240
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 90mg
Total Carbohydrates: 36g
Sugars: 24g
Protein: 2g

Note: These values are approximate and can vary depending on frosting thickness and sprinkle amounts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance. Keep it tightly wrapped in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Can I freeze the frosted cookies?

Absolutely. Place them in a single layer to freeze initially, then stack with parchment paper between layers. Thaw at room temperature.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?

Likely because the dough wasn’t chilled long enough or the butter was too warm. Chill for at least an hour before baking.

Can I use cream cheese frosting instead?

You sure can! It’ll add a tangier twist and still pairs beautifully with the soft cookie base.

How do I get vibrant frosting colors?

Use gel-based food coloring—they’re more concentrated and won’t thin the frosting like liquid dyes.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe doubles well. Just be sure to mix in a large enough bowl and chill the dough accordingly.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour to make them gluten-free friendly.

Do they taste like the store-bought version?

Yes—and better! They’re softer, fresher, and the flavor is richer without being overly sweet.

Conclusion

Making Lofthouse Frosted Sugar Cookies from scratch is not only easy—it’s a sweet trip down memory lane. The soft, cakey texture and creamy frosting bring back everything you loved about the store-bought classics, but with better flavor and way more joy. Customize them for any season or celebration, and watch them disappear faster than you made them. They’re the kind of cookie that makes people smile—and that’s why I’ll keep baking them again and again.