Description

These ultra-soft, cake-like sugar cookies perfectly replicate the iconic grocery store treats with a tender crumb that stays fresh for days. Topped with a thick, creamy buttercream and colorful sprinkles, they are the ultimate nostalgic dessert for any celebration.

Ingredients

2 1/4 cups (270g) all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, room temperature
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
1/4 cup (60g) sour cream, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1/2 cup unsalted butter (for frosting)
2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
1-2 tablespoons milk (for frosting)
Assorted sprinkles

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Instructions

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and cornstarch until well combined.
In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the room temperature butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter mixture and beat well, then stir in the sour cream.
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix on low speed just until the flour disappears.
Shape the dough into a disk, wrap tightly in plastic, and refrigerate for at least one hour.
Preheat your oven to 375F (190C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough to a 1/4-inch thickness and cut into rounds using a cookie cutter.
Bake for 8 to 9 minutes until set but still pale; do not let them brown.
Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before spreading with homemade buttercream and adding sprinkles.

Notes

To ensure the softest texture possible, pull the cookies out of the oven while they still look slightly underbaked and pale; they will firm up to a perfect cake-like consistency as they cool. Always use room temperature ingredients to prevent the dough from breaking, which maintains the signature velvety crumb of a true Lofthouse cookie.

Prep Time: 1 hour 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American